Wow. Only a few days till I go to Singapore, and “Do The Karen Cheng” with readers of this blog to raise money for those in need. I am so excited to let you know that we have already raised US$1000 for this cause.

I have previously talked about FashionJunkee.com, an online fashion boutique, and when they heard about this charity event I was organising, they offered to sponsor a gift to the Singapore Red Cross of – just let me say this again - ONE THOUSAND U. S. DOLLARS!!

The check (and a couple of their latest dresses) are in an express parcel pack as I write this, to meet me at my hotel in Singapore when I arrive there on Wednesday. So, now I know what I’ll be wearing! What will you be you wearing?

I’m also glad to say that we have another sponsor as well. Carrey Hill Events Management in Singapore are very generously organizing the event (at VERY short notice) where we will be “Doing The Karen Cheng”.

I’ll publish the details of this location on Thursday or Friday here on this website, and also on the Facebook group “Doing The Karen Cheng” and the Facebook event “Doing The Karen Cheng in Singapore”.

We’re still confirming all the details. It might be in the Orchard district, or maybe somewhere else.

If you are planning to come, please indicate this with an RSVP at the Facebook “Doing The Karen Cheng in Singapore” event.

Please support and check out FashionJunkee’s latest garments at www.fashionjunkee.com.

EEEK!! So excited!

In my boutique travels, I was tipped off to visit a new menswear concept store and cafe on Kings Street, called Zekka.

Upon entering, it is hard not to ooh and ahh. With it’s discrete shop signage, a mysterious laneway, wall murals, eclectic mix of furniture, dramatic lighting, amazing architectural shop fittings and art sculptures – this shop is designed to uber perfection.

I managed to have a chat to the owners, Scott and Connor. They were just the loveliest guys - ambitious, fearless, warm, humble and kind.

They had previously been business partners, opening Test Tube, a designer homewares shop in Mount Lawley. After that, they wanted to try something different and not done in Perth before, combing upmarket menswear and a cafe in one space.

I love the way they talked about their business ventures: casual, humble, with understated confidence. As if they were talking about a little project they just happened to find in their garage. But to look around and see what they have created from nothing, I was in awe. You can see more great pictures here.

These guys have created an amazing shopping experience for me. Browsing through designer garments, feeling like I’m walking through an art gallery, gawking at art sculptures and quirky window displays, then sitting down and enjoying a coffee and a gourmet sandwich - it was all very cool.

Zekka stocks a range of upmarket, international designer menswear, shoes and accessories.

Zekka
74 King Street, Perth Wa 6000
Phone: +618 9481 1772
www.zekka.com (still under construction)

I‘m going to be in Singapore next weekend, and it’s so cool that I have so many readers in Singapore!

I’d LOVE to meet up and chat with each one of them, especially the ones who have emailed me over the years, but I simply have not had the time to reply to.

Time is so short, and there are so many people. I REALLY want to DO SOMETHING with everyone!

So here is my crazy idea.

A few weeks ago, I got an email from one of my readers who is an aid worker posted to Myanmar (Burma) to help deal with the cyclone disaster there. I won’t mention their name, because it might put them in a difficult position somehow, but a BIG “Hello!” to you.

I saw the devastation on TV, but to then sit down at my computer, find a message from someone who reads my blog, whose job is to literally help these people, well, it made the suffering seem very real and close.

I have to admit, with my kids safe and snug in bed, I realized what a privileged, happy, lucky, secure life I, and all of us who live in developed countries have.

Since then, of course, there has been earthquakes and floods in China, typhoons in the Philippines, not to mention the Boxing Day Tsunami victims, who are still in need. It’s all been on my mind.

And I wanted to do something to help.

So, while I am in Singapore, and it’s my birthday, I am going to raise some money for the Singapore Red Cross. I know they will do good things with it! And I am asking you all to help me!

How does this work?

At 4pm on Saturday the 5th July, I will be dressed up and “Doing The Karen Cheng” in a big mirror somewhere in Singapore, in a public place. A shopping centre, function centre, or hotel lobby. Somewhere central, and easy to get to.

If you’re not familiar with what “Doing The Karen Cheng” is, please read my post about it here, and then head on over to the Doing The Karen Cheng Facebook Group craziness!

I’ll be “Doing The Karen Cheng” with anyone who wants to have some fun, while helping some very needy people. Instead of us spending $10 on coffee and cake, we will each put the $10 in the Red Cross collection box that will be there!

But wait, I need more help!

I haven’t even been in Singapore for six years, and I have no idea where I could find such a big mirror!

So if you are familiar with Singapore, can you suggest where you think a suitable mirror/place might be and I’ll get in contact with the owner to organise permission.

Ideally the mirror would need to be HUGE! In a big open space, outside a shopping centre or hotel, or inside a shopping mall.

We need to know:

> the name of the shop, or hotel, or whatever
> in what shopping centre or street
> in what district
> how long it takes to walk there from public transport

If you have a suggestion (please!) for a place, please email me directly on karen[AT]karencheng.com.au

Facebook Event

Please RSVP to this event on the Facebook EVENT “Doing The Karen Cheng in Singapore”.

By rsvp’ing, we can know approximately how many people are coming, and also, I’ll let everyone know the EXACT place of this event. I will also announce the location and any other updates on both Facebook and my site.

I can’t wait to meet everyone! Invite your friends!

Hope to see you all there next Sat!

xxx

I bought some Threadless t-shirts for my boys the other week, and they arrived today!

Let me tell you this. Children sitting on their bottoms, wiggling, jiggling and unable to contain their excitement… are the cutest thing ever.

Sean (left) running away from a terrifying robot destroying the earth, models New World Order.

Callum (right) trying to look like an evil villain, models The League of Cliche Evil Super-Villains.

My boys. They make me laugh.

Tu is a fantastic little boutique run by fashion designer Annie Chong. Having worked in the design industry in Singapore and Australia, she now runs a boutique featuring some of her own designs, as well as other Australian and International designers.

I actually discovered her shop by accident, through a friend of mine. When I popped into the store to take a peep, I introduced myself, and it turned out that we have so many of friends in common. It was really nice. We chatted for ages, about fashion, business, careers, clothes, life. She’s one lovely, hardworking and inspiring young woman!

As for the clothing, I was absolutely thrilled by her gorgeous selection of dresses!

She has a great range of party dresses, simple dresses, stylish evening gowns, and standout designer dresses. Definitely the place to go if you’re looking for a great outfit for a special occasion. I liked so many of them!

All the garments seemed well priced, there were lots of smaller sizes, everything was of good quality, and unique design. She also stocks a really nice range of handbags, gorgeous designer jewellery, and other cool accessories.

Tu is located west of the main Perth City malls, and west of King Street. It’s just along Murray Street, in Shafto Lane. Very easy to get to!

Tu
Shop 9, Shafto Lane, Perth 6000
Phone: 9322 3288

(I have a few more photos at my Doing The Karen Cheng Facebook group.)

I have always loved wearing beanies and knitted berets!

I love it that I can plop something on my head to cover my bad hair-day moment, to then suddenly look all stylish, and keep my head warm. It’s all good.

I found some cute ones from Urban Outfitters!

For my upcoming birthday, my husband has organised for us to scuba dive with sharks at the Perth Aquarium. I’ve been wanting to dive with sharks for years!!

I learned how to scuba dive in 2000, and did heaps diving through to 2002. Since then I haven’t touched my wetsuit in 6 years.

This is me in my custom-made, 7mm wetsuit! At the time I bought it, I thought I’d be able to get one off the rack in a “Little Japanese Girl” size. But it worked out better if I just had one custom made to my own measurements. I chose the colours, design, and had extra zips inserted in the legs and sleeves. It fits me perfectly. Like a glove. I love it!

But as I put it on, it suddenly occurred to me: what if wetsuit designs have changed in the last 6 years? What if I rock up to a dive site, feeling all special in my specky, custom-made wetsuit, and everyone raises their eye brows, because, it’s like SO out-of-date?

Haha. Ok, it was a ridiculous thought. When you’re underwater, no one really cares about how fashionable you look at all. But it did make me think about fashion and style merging with practical design in garment wear, and actually, what is fashion, and where are its limits?

So, to go with that ridiculous thought, I thought I’d slip on some pumps to complete my outfit.

Definitely something interesting going on with the zips, velcro straps and the shiny black pumps.

I’ve uploaded a few more oh-so stylish (not) photos onto my Doing The Karen Cheng Facebook group.

I had a few fashion appointments in the City of Perth today. Naturally I made my way over nice and early to check out all the sales. Almost all the stores and boutiques were clearing their stock, and having 30% - 50% (even 70%) off a huge range of stuff. I love shopping in the city!

So behold, more photos of me in clothes! I’m completely loving my “Doing The Karen Cheng” Facebook group!!!

I know it’s all just for a laugh – but I’ve had such amazing feedback! There are almost 600 members and around 250 photos! And lots of people cruising and commenting!

I love the fact that it’s turning into a place to discuss fashion styling and personal style. Plus showing off and looking at clothes! So if you’re interested, head over there, I’ve added a few more pics, and I explain what I was trying to do with these photos above and what/where/how much!

I’d love to introduce you all to Dottie and Stephie, who write one of my favorite Fashion blogs based in Singapore – Fashionation!

I guess everyone knows about my long standing connection to Singapore, and these guys are my source for what is happening in the Singaporean fashion scene!

They have a unique take on the world of fashion, with really well written, interesting stuff – often throwing in a little fashion history to keep it all in perspective, and with a sense of humour!

Dottie and Stephie have taken up the “Doing the Karen Cheng” self-styling and self-photographing challenge, and you see how it went on their site!

I just LOVE Kookai’s latest winter collection.

Kookai is a French label, now well established in Australia. I always seem to love their mix of Parisian, boho and classic stlyes. You can buy their stuff online at ASOS.

A few years ago, I received an email from a pair of girls.

They said they went out for dinner, saw a large mirror, and since they were all dressed up nice, they decided to take a photo of themselves doing “The Karen Cheng Pose”. Complete with head tilt.

They sent me the picture, and omg I laughed and laughed! Oh it was too funny. Big wave to Sofia and Hanaa!

Then a few weeks ago, I received another email. Again, it was another reader doing The Pose. She wasn’t sure if she should send it to me, in case I got offended, but I assured her, I’m all for making fun of myself!!

I find it utterly hilarious (and a bit tragic) that my lazy-assed, self-portraits have become my signature pose.

So I hereby officially invite everyone to my new Facebook Group called “Doing The Karen Cheng” – devoted to the crazy people, a bit (or a lot) dressed up, taking their own photograph in a mirror. Not forgetting the head tilt!

To get things started, I’ve put up about 20 photos of myself taken over the years. I’ve also included little “how to” instructions.

Haha I’m looking forward to see what people will post up. Feel free to post links back to your own blog as well!

After reviewing various boutiques in Leederville, I managed to catch up with De (co-owner of Atlas Divine) and have a chat to her about her store.

De is a fashion designer who has been running her boutique for 15 years. In its early days, it was a menswear only store, which carried her own label, as well as other international brands.

However, in the last 2 years she re-branded her store, renovated the shop, and branched out to carry women’s clothing, jewellery, belts, bags, hats, shoes, sunglasses, and kids-wear. She has around 65 Australian and international brands in her store.

She personally selects every item in her store, making sure that they are unique and not commonly found elsewhere in Perth. She is determined to keep her stock fresh and exciting – always carrying the perfect items for the stylish girly girl, the funky techno raver, the casual indi musician and the quirky alternative kid.

She believes in friendliness and amazing service for anyone who walks through the door.

As we chatted, she shared heaps of stories about little old ladies who toddle into her shop, young mothers in tracksuits, working executives in power suits, after school teenagers, crazy looking backpackers - everyone loves it and everyone seems to find something they love.

She also mentioned she gets a lot of Asian clientele, so whenever she can, she buys size 6 or 8 for small frames and tiny waists. I clapped my hands with glee and said, “Woohoo! Bring em on!”

De let me spend some time in her shop trying on clothes and taking pictures. I went around pulling out 1) stuff I loved, and 2) stuff that looked amazing, but I wouldn’t normally wear. Halfway through, I had pulled out so much stuff, that I was so embarrassed by the PILE I made. It took me ages to get through it!

The shop has an excellent price range of clothes – there were $70 dresses, $400 dresses, and lots in between. There was a nice mix of stylish garments, party dresses and casual clothes. I was in girl heaven.

Atlas Divine is located in the hub of Leederville, in the midst of all the cafes and pubs. It’s a tiny walk from the Leederville train station, but don’t walk too fast, or you’ll miss it! The shop front is very small. It sits on the corner of Oxford and Newcastle Street, next to Greens and Co Cafe. Enjoy everyone!
Atlas Divine
121 Oxford Street, Leederville 6007
P: 08 9242 5880

People who are planning to visit Perth often ask me where are the best places to visit – for a cool local experience.

Beyond any question, one of my favourite spots to hang out is Oxford Street, Leederville.

There’s a little section of Oxford St that starts from the Leederville train station that is *packed* with cool little boutiques, cafes, restaurants, book shops, music shops, an art house movie theatre, and pubs and clubs.

The street vibe, like in Fremantle, is a perfect example of what happens when you mix up a typically West Australian, laid-back kind of casualness with an unpretentious, arty cool. Added to the mix, the area draws people of ALL types – so it’s also a great place to just people watch.

Oxford Street is not usually thought of as the “fashion centre of Perth”, but it’s got a handful of absolutely delicious fashion boutiques. You know, The Ultimate Boutique - the one that every girl lusts for… where every single item is hand picked to perfection, where every corner you turn you’re faced with another gorgeous garment, more staggering jewellery and the cutest thing you’ve ever seen.

And even better, most of the boutique are open till 8pm in the evening.

Atlas Divine
This is my ultimate boutique. It’s full of incredible stuff for women, men, and kids. I love their range of Australian designer clothing brands. Every time I go into the shop, I go crazy. I literally pour over each piece of clothing, turning them on the rack like pages in a book. They also stock gorgeous jewellery and cool clothes for men.

I would describe their range as very stylish, lush, distinctive, vibrant and a bit vintage, arty and eclectic. The décor is gorgeous with chandeliers, vintage wallpaper, antique furniture and big rugs. The whole place is dripping with abundance and vintage luxury. I love it.

Harry and Gretel
My other ultimate boutique. This boutique seems to feature the most gorgeous and lust-worthy jewellery and bags I have ever seen. Each time they change their window display, I stand on the footpath with my tongue hanging out. They stock an exquisite selection of women’s clothes, jewellery, accessories, shoes, some home wares, stationery, children’s clothes and gift ideas.

The overall style of the shop looks very French and modern. But the clothes are classically stylish - minimal, slightly embellished, neutrals, simple but unique designs, and timeless fabrics.

Yo-Yo Buffalo
It may be a tiny shop, but it’s packed full of accessory goodness. The bits and pieces found here are funky, cool, colourful and crazy, while the clothes are casual, urban and funky. I’d say that the items here are a lot more affordable than the previous two shops. You can pick up a cute dress for $70 and an cool belt for $50.

Urban Records
This place has a very understated, uber-cool about it. They seems to be open all the time! It’s like a popular hang out - always full of people standing around, browsing, talking and listening to music.

The front of the shop is dedicated to music, but the back half is full of great women’s and men’s clothes, jewellery, accessories, shoes, home wares, stationery, random objects, and really funky gift ideas. They seem to change things all the time, so it’s always worth a look and there are always really cool and surprising items to be found.

Un1son
This shop surprised me. It has very clean, stark white walls with lots of down lights, so the place looks like a stylish art gallery. Yet it also seemed like a trendy, men’s skate shop – packed full of shoes, men’s casual clothes, belts and other accessories. They also stock a pretty good range of women’s clothes in a modern, minimalist, urban style.

My favourite items were the range of funky printed tees. I love funky tees on my men.

I really enjoy Leederville because it’s not too big. Everything is only a short walk away. There’s lots of parking for cars. And there’s a nice, easy range of restaurants and cafes.

Best of all for a visitor to Perth, Leederville is literally one stop up the train line from Perth Central Train Station, and the train station walkway runs right on to the shops and cafes. It’s SO convenient.

I’ve been on the look out for some new eye shadow. Yeah, I’m trying to venture out into COLOUR.

I spotted these limited edition Shu Uemura pressed eye shadow colours and argh they’re so pretty!

Here’s me browsing through NineWest for some new peep toes to wear with winter blacks, greys and nice stockings.

Last night my husband and I went to a popular pub in the city. The place was packed full of very well dressed, after-work business people. As I was making my way through the crowd, one guy caught my eye – only because I recognised that he was wearing a Threadless Tee ! Haha it was like seeing an old friend.

So this morning I spent way too much time browsing through some AWESOME designs at Threadless. Ah how I love their designs, it’s seriously the best place to get funky, affordable, designer t-shirts for kids! (Ok and adults!)

Here are a few I picked out (for kids). Enjoy!

Never Take Your Abilities For Granted

Dulces Vacaciones

New World Order

Such Great Height

Everything Will Be Alright

Mmmh Delicious

Animal Zoo

(Browse shirts at Threadless, in the kids section. You might have to do a search for the t-shirt names.)

It’s autumn here in Australia. The cold weather has stormed in like an unannounced guest. And I have been very unprepared…

I think I need new boots. A new pair of jeans. And a few tops for layering. I can finally wear my vintage fishnets again. Maybe I should try some coloured tights.

I found some nice, winter basics from French Connection. I love wearing black, whites and greys with a splash of red. Or purple.

Urge the Boys Designer Jewellery have a brand new site and a new collection of amazing jewellery. My favourites are the dazzling range of necklaces, charm necklaces and earrings!

From left to right: Birds of a Feather, Go To Mexico, Backstreets, Peaches.

From left to right: The New Pencil, Until the End, Ashes To Ashes, Walking Through Doors, Taking You Higher.

I got to know Penny through my website. We emailed a few times in the past, like me she’s a busy, young mother living in Australia. Then she introduced me to her company, Benjibox.com.au.

The moment I laid eyes on one of her clear shoe boxes, I said OMG I must try one out!

Instead of a typical box-flap opening, Benjiboxes have a slide-out drawer that make them quick and easy to open. How cool is that?!

They keep your shoes from dust and dirt, and have small air vents to let your shoes breathe.

Since then, I’ve seen a few other clear shoe boxes on the market. I haven’t tried them, but the designs imply they have “envelope” or “tab” openings (like a cereal box?), which I imagine, would be such a hassle to fiddle with. And the flaps might scratch your shoes.

They are also great for organising kid’s stuff and craft bits. They look so cool!

I’m so happy with mine! Now I just need more room in my wardrobe!

* Special Offer : Mention KAREN in the “Where did you hear about us” box during checkout, and you’ll get an additional free box with any shoebox order.

A friend sent me a link to ASOS, an online fashion store. The dresses looked really nice and really affordable. I picked out a few I liked, which, after seeing them placed side by side, all seemed quite similar. Must be a phase I’m in.

Left to right :
Twisted Grecian Halter Dress
Traffic People Silk Chiffon Layered Ribbon Dress
Traffic People Silk Chiffon Twist Halter Dress
Ruched Mesh Corset Dress
Contrast Trim Cross Back Dress
Premium Silk Full Skirted Halter Dress

I will be the first to admit that I’m very lazy when it comes to handbags.

When I pop out to functional places, like the gym, pool, library, beach, or to the shops to buy some milk, I don’t like to take my regular handbag. In fact, I literally just grab the closest green supermarket bag I can find, toss my keys, purse, sunglasses and whatever else I need and run out the door!

Haha ok it’s pretty daggy. And up to last week, I didn’t really care about it UNTIL… I was at the pool, I pulled out my towel and saw that it was covered in a bloody fluid that must’ve leaked out of a mince meat packet at the supermarket. Gross!

So I was on a hunt for a nice looking, big bag for my errands, constant running around and carrying stuff. And yay! I found some awesome ones from Rootote Canvas Bags.

I got hold of two and they are absolutely perfect! I just adore them! They’re so sturdy, well made, with lots of cool little pockets and it’s a great size for all my stuff.

In two days, I brought one to a morning tea picnic with friends (it held the picnic rug, drink bottles and containers of food), the library (it held 8 books and 2 videos), and a birthday party at a kid’s play gym (it held the gift, drink bottles and a bundle of magazines I had to pass to a friend)… and 6 people asked me where I got the bag from! *beams* I’m so happy to recommend them.

Pictured above from left to right. Medium Stripe, Medium Sumi, Medium Point, Medium Crop, Medium Yagli.

I have the Medium Sumi and the Tall Water designs.