Channelling Alexander Wang with less than ten bucks

This idea was taken from Fashionsphere (she's a genius, one can't help but be inspired by her creativity). I bought a long waterfall cardigan at an op shop for seven dollars and wrapped it around to create a draped dress. It's the solution for people who are not willing to fork out over a hundred dollars for jerseys from Alexander Wang, Helmut Lang, or even RO Lillies.

How to make one self (appear) taller

This is not a new trick, but it is often not executed properly because the devil is in the details, which are often overlooked. It's especially useful on lazy days when you can't think of what to wear. Note that I am not suggesting a trick that creates a slimmer silhouette, but somewhere along the way it may help.

So here goes:

1. I tend to choose black for its convenience and slimming effect, but not everyone can carry off an all-black outfit without looking like a funeral attendee or worse, washed out, so pick out a colour that's flattering for yourself.

2. The basic outfit can consist of either a shirt and a maxi skirt of the same colour, or a maxi dress, and in my case it is the former. It's important to choose a shirt with the right neckline for your neck/face shape but in all cases, cover as much skin as possible. My personal favourite is the high neck/mock turtle neck.

3. Now the bottom: it has to be a fishtail skirt, not flared nor column, the kind that clings to your bum and flares out at the knees. Not only does it accentuate your behind, it also allows you to walk freely. How far should it go? In terms of length, the skirt has to touch the floor regardless of whether you're wearing high heels or flats. A skirt that trails would work even better but it's not practical for outdoor activities.

When your skirt is hiding four inch stilettos, it creates the illusion that you have mile long legs. The success of pulling the trick is to create a continuous, streamlined vision from neck to floor.

4. Material: Choose slinky fabrics that clings like a second skin, such as cotton jersey or viscose. The thicker the fabric, the more stumpy you might seem.

5. Posture: As with any outfits, stand straight, tall and proud.

6. Part of the reason why I always turn to this basic formula is that it can easily be paired with a kickass outerwear, so don't hesitate to experiment. Remember that the length of the outerwear can reduce the torso lengthening illusion, so pick something that ends around the waist.

Cheap clothes

If you exclude the belt and shoes, the outfit costs fifteen bucks. The sweater was an odd find but I thought that the seams had a sort of Margiela-esque ironic touch to it.

Le Scarabée

Rick Owens Scarab jacket, dress and boots; Damir Doma belt; vintage purse

Rick Owens rarely does colour, so this metallic green comes as a pleasant surprise. The beetle green hue rocks so hard that I can't help falling in love despite not being a fan of his classic biker jackets. Another favourite addition to my wardrobe is this Damir Doma belt that goes with almost everything. I've been wearing it non-stop with my op-shop finds (none of which go over ten bucks), which I'll feature pretty soon.

Human Nature

Jacket, bag and boots by Rick Owens, random dress bought for $7

To say that these boots are eye-catching would be an understatement. I was expecting a bit of stares but the reaction I received on the streets was a tad overwhelming, ranging from approval to bewilderment. One particular encounter was with a Chinese mom who wouldn't stop staring and pointing at my legs while conversing animatedly with her daughter. Ahh Asian moms, if mine has seen the boots she'd probably go WTF at them too.

Good riddance to sloppy dressing

I'm not one to rave on and on about jeans, mostly because I hate wearing them, but tailored trousers are a different story altogether. Contrary to popular beliefs, tailored trousers are not boring, conservative pieces solely meant for the boardroom. Finding a pair that fits you perfectly can make you look like a million bucks, and professional. If you don't believe me just take a look at the fashion packs found on Stockholm-streetstyle.com.

My main inspiration though, comes from Helmut Lang:

After searching for months, I finally decided on this pair of Neil Barrett which was on sale at Antonioli. It's partly made of wool, very comfortable for all weathers and the cut is, for lack of better words, perfect.

Vintage rabbit coat - After Six tuxedo - random blouse - Sussan waistcoat - Damir Doma belt - Neil Barrett trousers - Rick Owens boots - Celine Luggage tote

Repent, all ye sinners

There's something I've noticed about the Rick Owens pack (is there a specific name for them - the people who hangs out at Style Zeitgeist/SuperFuture?), which is that they seem to be afraid of bright colours. Not afraid per se, but one gets the impression that by mixing striking colours in an otherwise monochromatic palette, it tarnishes the purity of the ensemble and thus you are no longer worthy of a membership in the holy clan. Sure Gareth Pugh and Damir Doma are slowly mixing blues and yellows but they are mostly chunks of colours juxtaposed against blacks.

See I am guilty of doing the very thing despite the fact that I love Mcqueen's loud prints and anything else that has photos/vibrant images printed on them. It could be due to my lack of creativity as I find it rather difficult to merge the different streams of fashion (rather like mixing dubstep with Vivaldi). Thank goodness for an epiphany one day and here's the outcome.

Yes there is a black hole where my nether ye ya is supposed to be

Gareth Pugh coat, Damir Doma belt, Black Milk 'Cathedral' leggings, Rick Owens boots

Out and about

Rick Owens - Topshop - Rick Owens

Life is going to be so different in 2012. Goodbye spoilt kid. Hello to being a responsible adult who can't afford anymore Rick Owens