Ad Campaigns & Catalogues #20

Season Of Giving With Agnès B - Agnès B Christmas Catalogue

I picked up a copy of Agnès B's Christmas Catalogue while shopping at the shop in Takashimaya on Friday. It's FOC.

Foil gold cover, with lots of pics of merchandise that makes great gifts over the holidays. My 'Effiel tower' bag charm is featured inside:-P The most interesting thing about the design is the christmas tree graphic composed of different Agnès B product category. Each gets highlighted for the different sections of the catalogue.

Festive shopping competition is fierce! So many brands have X'mas catalogues.

My Shopping Conquest #40

Agnès B Dogtag Necklace

I have been wearing a Agnès B Dogtag necklace for the longest time. The designs were that of a gothic, rockstar font type of the brand and in a gunmetal colour. Over the past year and more, constant contact with my EDT and of course sweat thru wearing, the necklace has somehow seen its glory days and pending retirement.

So what better time to get a replacement than when there is a promotion going on! Agnès B has been giving a 10% discount since the last few weeks while Takashimaya is giving a further 10% off to Takashimaya credit card holders this week. I grab the opportunity and got myself a new set of Agnès B dogtag necklace at the discounted price of SGD $60.75. I think they are metal with epoxy coating for that transparent coated look. The words on the dogtags of off white and icy blue colour, reads 'Les Volcans' and 'Les Icebergs' respectively. The flip side reads 'Agnès B and some french gibberish' which I cannot decipher the exact words. :-P

I got it gift wrap since it is X'mas season. Lovely box and ribbon. These are like treats for myself or in any case, maybe it will end up as someone's present.

This is one heavy set of dog tags. I advise wearing one at a time to avoid 'injury' to your chest while running to catch a bus or train or cab.

Sort of 'guilt-free' shopping for the week. Not really enough to 'help' the economy. Hahaha:-P

Retail price: SGD $75. Where to buy: Agnès B Shop at Takashimaya

My 'French' Indulgence

YSL And Agnès B Indulgences

For the last couple of days, I amassed a little 'french' retail pampering for myself. As Sean puts it in his blog..." It is impossible to overdo luxury. " (French Proverb)

Well said for the french. YSL + Agnès B:-P

My Shopping Conquest #39

Agnès B Gunmetal Star Shape Bag Charm With Blue Rhinestones Studs

Agnès B is having a 10% discount promotion at all their outlets. And DBS Cards will allow you an extra 5% discount. So on hearing this piece of retail news, I knew I had to rush down to Agnès B to get my hands on a bag charm I have been eyeing for the past weeks. I was again cheapo and waiting for a promotion of some sort to get that. I needed the charm to hang on my beloved Izzue Gunmetal Coated Canvas Duffel.

So yesterday my wish came true. I got the Agnès B Gunmetal Star Bag Charm With Blue Rhinestones Studs:-P At just approx. SGD $72 from the usual price of SGD $85, I am happy I picked up something I truly want at a discount. Feels good not to pay full price:-P

Now the charm hangs on my Izzue Duffel, so matching and with a bit of 'disco bling' from the blue rhinestone studs. Cool eh? Love it.!

(BTW, I cannot seem to locate this star shape bag charm anywhere besides the Isetan Scotts outlet. So if you guys want to get this as well, you know where!)

Retail price: SGD $85. Where to buy: Agnès B Shop at Isetan Scotts

My Shopping Conquest #34

Agnès B 'Rock N' Roll Is Not Dead' Guitar Brooch

Ahah...it seems I cannot stop myself from rewarding myself after a hard week of work. I had worked till 11pm on Friday, so today, I want to make myself happy. And 'happiness' can be bought sometimes:-) It's my theory of self motivation:-P

So while waiting to get into the cinemas to drool over Daniel Craig, aka 'James Bond' Quantum of Solace', I did a round of wandering amongst the fresh new decor of Isetan Scotts:-) The once 'aged ridden and weary' department store now looked absolutely modern after this recent makeover. Although renovation works are still in progress, most parts of the men's level has been completed. Using nice concrete slabs as flooring, lots of glass display showcases with good lighting and brand new wood finishing, all the merchandise just seem more attractive when being displayed in this new environment:-)

And of course new renovations means new labels under the store's list of brands. There are new and a few exclusive brands that you find only in Isetan. Carshoe is one of them as does Globetrotter luggages. I cannot remember the other names but do check them out. The wallet section is also amazing. Very good selection. There is a range of mock croc leather accessories that tickles my fancy:-) Colours are brilliant and prices reasonable:-)

Further to these new sightings, I was most impressed with the new Agnès B counter. New layout, new shelfing and lighting. Agnès B is fast expanding in Singapore. I hope they get a real boutique soon. The merchandise and clothes have improved and the designs more exciting now. I can always find things I love every time I shop there! Fortunately, Agnès B's prices are very reasonable and quality good. So with the gloomy economic situation that is affecting all our wallets, this brand will be something to fill in the gaps between top luxury brands and mid level labels:-) That said, Agnès B has a style that is as chic as any top luxury brand. The key is selecting the right pieces for you. The accessories are the best!

Needless to say, I had to buy something upon being mesmerised by the new Agnès B counter. Being a 'smart' shopper, I decided to do 'shopping research' at Isetan and buy the items I like in Takashimaya's shop to get points for voucher redemption.

What caught my eye were a 'rhinestone lined' star bag charm, a guitar and vinyl record necklace, a whistle and thunderbolt necklace. However, the top of my attraction list goes to the Agnès B 'Rock N' Roll Is Not Dead' Guitar Brooch! I simply love the tagline on the brooch. Very cool! The pricing was the most unbelievable so I easily made the decision that this will be my 'little indulgence' for this weekend. The actual buying will have to wait till after the James Bond movie. (On a side note, the James Bond movie was kinda confusing. I do not understand what the villain's plot was. But as usual, the action was fantastic. The Aston Martin being crushed in the action scene in the opening scene makes me have a major 'heart pain'! OUCH!:-P)

After the movie, I head off to Agnès B, Takashimaya and immediately ask to purchase the guitar brooch. I had a choice of Black and Purple, with the red version being out of stock in Takashimaya. Fortunately, I had already set my sights on the purple version and that is the colour which I got:-) I am very impressed with the packaging of the brooch and Agnès B's new shopping carrier in silver and spot UV varnish. To think a purchase this small came in such elaborate packaging, it goes to say a lot about the brand. I am so in love with Agnès B now:-)

The brooch may be inexpensive but it has put a big smile on me:-)

Retail price: SGD $25. Where to buy: Agnès B Shop in Takashimaya or Isetan Scotts

My Shopping Conquest #33

Below: Comes in a nice white leather box and a grey felt pouch...I love the packaging!

Below: Hangs great on my Guccissima Bag!

Agnès B 'Effiel Tower' Paris Bag Charm
(Reveal from 'The Past Sunday's Loot...')

I dunno know the exact name of this new acquisition I just got last weekend:-) Something sweet and unique and yet FRENCH from my new favourite brand, Agnès B! I love her accessories. So many things that is understated chic! Now with a new men's 'shop in shop' within Isetan Wisma Atria, there are more men's range and things to get from this interesting brand.

I am so loving my new Agnès B 'Effiel Tower' Paris Bag Charm! Paris has always been my most favourite city in the world, has been for many many years! Paris and London is now cities that I will want to visit over and over again! Not only is it culturally rich, but the french city just gives such a inspiring vibe even thru walking in the streets:-).

So when I saw this brass bag charm in the shape of the iconic Parisian landmark, I knew I had to own it. The bag charm features script inscriptions, black and white star patterns and even black rhinestone studs to add a splash of glitter and glamour! The antique finish on the brass makes the bag charm have a certain vintage look. A key ring is also attached to hook on your keys if you want to use it other than a decorative bag charm.

I test the bag charm on my Guccissima Brown Leather Tote, it adds a dash of french charm and looked amazing!:-)

J'aime Paris! J'aime Agnès B!

(This bag charm also comes in a shiny metallic red and silver colour combination. Ladies will like that!)

Retail price: SGD $75. Where to buy: Agnès B Shop in Takashimaya

My Pre-trip Shopping Saturday...

Can Shopping be 'Hectic'?

I know I have been blabbering how I want to stop shopping and stuff...but I keep posting more and more shopping posts. To be honest, the recent shopping trips are pretty 'guilt-free' since most of the time I use all the vouchers I redeem from my credit cards or birthday vouchers from Club 21 to offset the purchases.

So this weekend, I shopped at the Takashimaya 15th Anniversary Promotion event...which offers some good deals such as my Agnès B Duffel bag. But most importantly, since I will be staying with my friend in UK...and imposing on them, it is only right for me to show my appreciation for their hospitality. Thus, I have been racking my brains to find some nice gifts for them. Last weekend was my 'research' shopping expedition to see what's available and where to get them. This weekend I have to buy the gifts already as time is running out! The gifts will have to be portable enough to carry to London. I am leaving for UK next Tuesday evening. Very excited!

After much scouring around, I made a decision to get something from DKNY. The designs in DKNY have improved so much. The store design is pleasant and inviting with lots of space. There is one leather bag that gives off such a New York city vibe that I immediately fell in love with. Unfortunately, the silly idea to make the shoulder strap super long and yet non adjustable puts me off. Such a waste of a good bag design. Moving on, I picked my gift and quickly paid for it. The DKNY SA helped me to wrap up my purchcase. I was expecting a normal wrapping paper. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised. Aparently, they had this white foam material as an exterior wrap. I have not seen this before so I find it very unique and interesting. Very innovative gift wrapping! The finishing touch was a nice deep red ribbon that made the whole gift looked even more stunning. Good job DKNY!

The next present hunting was tough...I am totally lost on what to buy. I had something in mind already but I cannot seem to find it here in Singapore at the right design and colour. Somehow something was always lacking. So praise the 'lady luck' that I decided to give a last shot at Hugo Boss at Ngee Ann City, since I remembered I bought something similar to what I want a few years back there. To my relief and surprise, I was right, they do have the kind of style I want for my present:-) Happily, I bagged my item and the lovely SA did her magic on the gift wrapping. It came in a sleek black box with Hugo Boss embossed ribbons and a gift card. How luxurious!

Mission completed, just in time for me to attend the CK Calvin Klein fashion show at 3pm. Venue was the boutique in Ngee Ann city. When I made it there at 3pm, the guests had filled up all the seats. I was fortunate to have a front row seating next to where the models will turn to exit the 'cramped' runway, so I can see all the details of the clothes and of course drool over any handsome models walking by:-P Maybe even wink* at them? Hahaha. I am too 'chicken' to do that. Finally as a souvenir, a nice printed catalogue was left on the seat for you to drool afterwards.:-P

The in-store fashion show was small scale. Not as lavish as an actual show, but it was nonetheless nice. The designs at CK Calvin Klein have improved so much, they all looked on par with the A-list brands. Prices have also risen so you can see the quality and design improved as well. Not comparable to A-list brands, but enough to be good. I especially love this season's womenswear. The heavy emphasis on cuts and draping made the clothes have an intellectual appeal to them. You need to have good design concepts in order to pull off clothes that wraps and folds nicely to the body. The open toe booties for women are simply breath-taking as well. For a moment there, I wished I was a girl, cos I would have bought that in a heart beat. So gorgeous.

As for the menswear, the bags suddenly looked so chic with the models carrying them. The power of seduction of runway presentation was clearly immediate and effective. I loved a dove grey leather tote bag which had an incredibly affordable price tag. And a 'to-die-for' wool short pea coat in black that you can wear many ways. My gosh, I was utterly tempted, especially with a 20% discount promotion exclusive during the event. (Fret not if you missed the 20% discount, this Sunday will see the 20% discount offered by the rest of the CK Calvin Klein boutiques.)

An eventful happy day which started with exchanging my Agnès B Duffel bag because of missing keys, then shopping for presents and then the fashion show. It ended with a crappy movie, 'Eagle Eye'...which was a letdown. Spare yourself the agony of being bored...wait for DVD or even better...miss it entirely:-P

Of course, no shopping day will be complete without my trip to Zara and my obligatory dressing room shot:-)

Time to pack and do last minute shopping errands again today!

(I am wearing Dolce Gabbana 'Moth eaten holes' Brown Deep V-neck tee (My mum thinks I look like a beggar wearing that, since I looked too 'poor' to buy tees without holes, I did explain to her that my 'holes all over' tee can buy me ten new tees at Zara.), Zara reversible beige cotton jacket, D&G audacious fit jeans, 'Love' metal bracelet, D&G logo buckle belt in metallic gun metal colour (Women's belt), He by Mango strap sandals, Dior Homme Guitar necklace and Gucci ring.)

My Bag Collection #37

Agnès B Voyage Nylon Duffel Bag In Olive Green Colour

Presenting my ultra good deal purchase from Friday evening. Yes, the Agnès B Voyage Nylon Duffel that I have been eyeing for a while now, except I was cheapo and waiting for the next Takashimaya promotion to get it. I was not ready to pay full price for the nylon duffel as it was not exactly my type of bags. I am more a tote bag person. I am only interested in the bag as it was perfect for travelling. As the name of the range suggest, 'Voyage', this bag is roomy, lightweight and features both hand carry, shoulder sling straps...ideal for travelling use! Inside the bag is a nice little nylon pouch that you can probably keep toiletries or some documents. There is also a key fob and lock which is useful for those extra security situations:-)

I have chosen to get the new seasonal colour of olive green, reminiscent of my favourite military hue as the black one is too common and too many people have that. I was sure this colour will be more me. At first, I bought the bag in black, but exchange it for the olive green colour almost immediately. I hope I made the right choice. Oops...:-P

Anyways, if this bag is a mistake, at least it will not be an expensive one since I paid only 1/3 of the full price, due to the discounts and further discounts and $150 worth of Takashimaya vouchers (Redeemed with UOB Bank:-p). This is very much a steal at SGD $121.58!:-P

Retail price: SGD $355. Where to buy: Agnès B Boutique at Takashimaya

What's up...shopping bag?:-)

A Happy Friday Shopping Evening With Agnès B!

After a stressful day at work rushing for super tight deadlines...I am dying for some retail therapy as Takashimaya is having their 15th Anniversary with special privileges for Takashimaya Credit Card Members:-)

So listen guys and gals, who hold this very useful credit card, Takashimaya is giving an extra 15% discount on all merchandise of participating merchants and brands if you pay with the card.:-) Such a good deal. Even if the items you want are non-sale items, you can still enjoy a 15% discount. How wonderful!

This will be the perfect time to buy all the non-sale items. Unfortunately, Hermès, Gucci and Bottega Veneta are not participating in this promotion, such a letdown. But Agnès B and many other brands are!

As you guys may know Agnès B Voyage Bags never goes on sale. Once in a while there will be special promotions, but rarely. This time, the brand is giving all Takashimaya shoppers a 10% discount storewide in their Takashimaya outlet. What's even better icing on the cake is that Takashimaya Credit Cardmembers enjoy a further...not 10% but a hefty additional 15% discount off the discounted price! Woohoo...time to shop, shop and shop till you drop! I love Agnès B! Another good thing about Takashimaya, on top of the promotion, you can also utilise your vouchers to offset these discounted purchases...very very generous of them! I love Takashimaya!:-)

So what's inside my shopping bag?:-P All will be revealed soon.

The Material Boy #95

Agnès B Canvas Boston Bag With Contrasting Stripes

I have been on the search for a light weight travel bag, made of nylon material, durable and resistant to dirt and wear and tear. It seems my search has lead me to Agnès B's range of voyage travel bags. These were made of light weight nylon material, reminiscent of Prada's nylon bags, but at a fraction of the price and yet looking really sleek and stylish for a world traveller. However, while making my mind whether to get the nylon medium travel bags, I spotted this baby which is even much more interesting and attractive:-)

The Agnès B Canvas Boston Bag With Contrasting Stripe Details is a pleasure to the eyes. This hand-carry bag with shoulder strap is in a very good size, roomy but not overwhelming with interesting details that makes it a bag worthy of my 'bag radar'! The first detail that catches my eye was the coloured stripes that runs thru the front and back of the bag. The red and white stripes is preppy, smart and yet eye-catching to add interest to the otherwise simple design. Another great detailing is the studded zipper pull tabs. I absolutely love this detail! It injects a rock and roll, punk vibe which infuses the bag with personality. From preppy to hippy...it's a great bag for complimenting lots of styles! It will work especially well with preppy trad looks because of the canvas stripe detail and 'Ivy league' colour scheme.:-P

I am very tempted to buy this bag, but I also want the black nylon bag which is very functional and timeless for travelling. I am torn! Fortunately, Agnès B bags are not seasonal. They are a staple range and will be available at all times. Plus, the great advantage, the prices are very affordable. With a 10% discount for Great Singapore Sale, perhaps, I can get one first and wait till I feel less guilty about spending, to get the other. :-P

Retail price: SGD $495. Where to buy: Agnès B in Isetan Scotts, Shaw Centre