Featured Article: Indonesia Fashion Week 2013 – Kraton by Auguste Soesastro

The first time we knew about Auguste Soesastro was almost two years ago, back in November 2011 when he participated in Dewi Fashion Knights. He presented a clean collection with earthy tones (click here to see the runway images). And now, the soft spoken Jakarta-born fashion designer once again presented a clean and sharp collection during the first day of Indonesia Fashion Week 2013, on Thursday, February 14th at Jakarta Convention Center.

The designer who graduated from Chambre Syndicale de la Couture, Paris combined his signature sleek cutting with the exquisite weave fabrics from Ayotupas area, western part of East Timor, as a cropped top or shawl. His runway girls (top models Julia Jamil opened and Laura Muljadi closed) were sporting dark blue lips and side-swept hair which completed the moody and dark ambience from the fashion show. The dresses towards the end of the show comes in mono colors (red, fuschia or grey) with loose and relaxed shapes.

These Fall Winter 2013 collection from the Kraton label (Kraton means palace in Javanese word), has established his name as one of Indonesia’s brightest young fashion designers. Check out the complete runway looks in our Facebook fanpage, here.

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Featured Article: Dewi Fashion Knights 2012

The Next Chapter was the title of the fifth edition from Dewi Fashion Knights, held last night, Friday, November 09th 2012 at Fashion Loft, Plaza Senayan Level 5, Jakarta.

Fashion Loft was not originally located at the fifth floor of the famous mall, but it was outside of the mall, on a huge tent. The venue was moved due to extremely bad weather that hit Jakarta for the past week. DFK supposedly the major fashion show event that closed JFW, but the weather problem caused the extension of Jakarta Fashion Week 2013 until Monday, November 12th.

This year, Dewi Magazine chose five prominent Indonesian designers to translates their ideas on “The Next Chapter” of their collection, which is ready to wear. Priyo Oktaviano, Sapto Djojokartiko (he was one of the designers from last year’s DFK), Deden Siswanto, Oscar Lawalata, and Ghea Panggabean are this year’s line up. They finally presented their latest prêt-à-porter collection inside the full-house venue around 10pm, filled with enthusiastic Jakarta’s fashionistas and socialites, who have been waiting for almost an hour in hot and packed foyer. Thank God for those martinis and fruit iced teas that keeps on flowing.

Priyo Oktaviano with his SPOUS label, opened the event with such an edgy and androgyny collection entitled Ultra Mod. Black and white dominates the collection. He twisted the basic color palettes with geometric prints, menswear-inspired cutting, cowboy hats, ruffles, punk-inspired hair do, and those head-turning boots heels that was also worn by the male models.

Vastu Vidya from Sapto Djojokartiko was the next collection out at DFK. The gorgeous yet delicate collection filled with exquisite laser cut detailing and crowns, fabrics mixing, wooden and woven accessories (clutch, lacy shoes with tassels, and sunglasses), puffy sleeves and some medieval inspired cutting. He presented less drama this year compared to that towering high steel shoes from last year that made lot of people hold their breath. Deden Siswanto combined traditional fabrics with modern cutting for his In The Dim Lights sequence. He mixed various patterns of batik with other luscious fabrics and incorporates it with unusual shapes to create the stunningly rich earthy colored collection. We’re drooling over the patent leather gladiator sandals.

Oscar Lawalata obviously got his inspiration from the 20s decade with it’s flapper dresses and fringes because that’s what his “My Name Is 20s” collection all about. Fringes were the vocal point from his latest collection, but he doesn’t let it bores you because the dresses, that looks great in motion, comes in various precious stone colors and some trompe l’oeil details. Last but not least Ghea Panggabean. The respected fashion designer, wowed the guest with the lavish velvet and silk ensemble in maroon, black, and gold, that still true to her signature ethnic looks. Javanese-inspired carving on the accessories completed her Symbolism collection.

Congratulations to Dewi Magazine and Jakarta Fashion Week for another great year of Dewi Fashion Knights. We can’t wait to see who’s gonna fronting next year’s line up!

Curious to see more from the collection? Click each of the designer’s name to view their complete runway images and you can also click on the following designer names for last year’s DFK coverage (Auguste Soesastro, Sally Koeswanto, Sebastian Gunawan, Sapto Djojokartiko and Tex Saverio).

Until next event!

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Featured Article: Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2012

Victoria’s Secret fashion show 2012 was tapped on Tuesday, November 07th 2012 with musical performances from Bruno Mars, Rihanna and Justin Bieber.

There was 65 outfits and 28 pair of wings with 37 models from supposedly 38 model slots. Lais Ribeiro cancelled her appearance due to she twisted her ankle on rehearsal. Behati Prinsloo finally worn one of her outfits, while Shanina Shaik wears the other one. Some of the high-fashion-strutter first timers this year’s are Maud Welzen, Magdalena Frackowiak, Hilary Rhoda, Cara Delevingne, Jourdan Dunn, Jasmine Tookes, Shu Pei Qin, Barbara Palvin, Barbara Fialho, Frida Gustavsson and Sharam Diniz.

Ieva Laguna, Bregje Heinen, Liu Wen, Sui He, Constance Jablonski, Joan Smalls and Karlie Kloss are some of the non-Angels models who returned on VS runway. Karlie Kloss shocked the industry with her freshly cropped tresses at the backstage. She said her new hair “The Karlie” was cut by Garren at a shoot with Patrick Demarchelier recently.

There were six different segments on the show: Circus, Calendar Girls, Dangerous Liaisons, Pink Is Us and Angels In Bloom. Brazilian bombshell Alessandra Ambrosio landed the honor to wear this year’s $2.5 million Floral Fantasy Bra, designed by London Jewelers. Prominent shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood designed special collection for the glamourous event.

We just can’t wait to see the who show on CBS this December 04th! Or most likely via Youtube because we don’t have the channel here

Browse through our Facebook fanpage for 100+ images from the runway and backstage for your viewing pleasure.

Images are courtesy of Style.com; Vogue.com; Startracksphoto; and Erik Pendzich/Rex Features. Images compiled via TFS.

Featured Article: Club Dahlia by Sebastian Gunawan

One of Indonesia’s most respected fashion designers, Sebastian Gunawan, just presented his 2013 collection at the ballroom of Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta (one of the regular venues for major fashion shows), on Tuesday, October 16th 2012.

The 45 year old named his latest collection Club Dahlia, and he translated his inspiration–an all female club in Florida, Club Dahlia–in ladylike and feminine shapes such as peplums, sleeveless dresses, ballgown skirt, cropped capes and jacket, billowy sleeves and 2012 biggest trend, pants over dress (in this case, the pants shown over a peplum dress that kinda similar to Raf Simons‘ first collection for Dior Haute Couture, and it’s very chic!).

Sebastian Gunawan infused his signature glamour touch in those fabulous shapes. You can see he used lots of marabou feathers, sequins, beads, flowers appliqué, and rich textured fabrics such as lamé, jacquard, satin, lace, tulle and brocade for his latest collection. He keeps the accessories minimal, only ankle strap wedges and heels, crystal adorned mesh headpiece/veil, and braided chignon. He let the dresses speaks for itself.

The color palette was opulently rich. Seba–the designer’s nickname–divided it in few sequences such as “This Innocence Is Brilliance“, “The Beauty of Interaction“, and “Rendition of Collision” in which he shown the lavish collection in yellow, teal, gold, dusty pink, baby blue, red, black and white respectively to the excited attendees.

As top catwalker Katya Talanova opened the show in an embellished trench coat and mesh veiled headpiece, you can sense that Seba will not go far from his signature style. There’s definitely something for every Indonesian fashionista which they can choose from the 95 looks he showcased. He also presented six gorgeous lace, tulle, shantung and duchess silk wedding gowns in the finale.

The collection will pleased his regular customers and fashion editors, as we are sure that it will fly out of the shelves and hit the editorials and his customers’ closet, very soon.

Check out the full runway images on our Facebook fanpage, here. We’d also like to give a special thank you notes to Vero Arfiana of Harper’s Bazaar Indonesia

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Featured Article: Plaza Indonesia Fashion Week Men’s Edition Fall Winter 2012

One of Jakarta’s most prominent shopping centers, Plaza Indonesia, recently held their regular major fashion event entitled Plaza Indonesia Fashion Week Men’s Edition. The three-day event, showcased the latest trends from Fall Winter 2012 from the well-known participating tenants such as Y-3 by Yohji Yamamoto, Kenzo, H.E. by Mango, Zara, Superdry, DKNY Jeans, and an über cool Indonesian howegrown brand, (X) S.M.L.

On the first day, Thursday, September 20th, Humberto Leon and Carol Lim-helmed label, Kenzo, was the first tenant to held a fashion show, located at the shopping center’s function hall at level 2 (the whole event later was shown at the mentioned hall). The functional design from Kenzo was translated perfectly in a subtle way such as the discreet pockets for iPhone and iPad, while the prints are intrinsic to Kenzo universe in which they applied paisleys, checks, stripes and medallion prints on the collection.

The second show of the day was Y-3 by Yohji Yamamoto, who got his inspiration for Fall Winter 2012 from Central Asia and it’s nomadic culture. Long, dramatic wool coats (with zippered lapels), sumptuous shearling jackets, nubby fleece knits, oversize plush shorts, and fierce leopard prints were shown on the runway that evening. We’re totally hooked-on by those insanely awesome and cool high sneakers. We. Want. Them. Badly!

Tailored and polished collection with a twist was the conclusion from Homini Emerito collection for Mango, and Zara fashion show, that was presented as the first and second show respectively on the second day of Plaza Indonesia Fashion Week Men’s Edition. In case you’re wondering who’s the model on H.E. by Mango latest campaign images, it’s Gerard Piqué, a 25 year old Spanish footballer who also happens to be Shakira‘s current flame.

Superdry, DKNY Jeans and (X) S.M.L were the final tenants who presented their latest collection on the final day of the event on Saturday, September 22nd. The highlights from the last day event was of course the (X) S.M.L fashion show, in which the models coming out of the guest’s seats!

We recognize Fedi Nuril (model/musician/actor) who sat in the opposite of our seat. We thought he must be just gonna watch the show this time (he walked few shows in the past couple of days) but then the lights turned off, the music blasts, but no models walked out of the runway. One model were actually walking on the opposite direction of the runway (including Fedi Nuril few minutes later), and we thought this guy must be late for the show… But apparently, we were wrong, because more models rising up from the guest seats and walking towards the runway, heading to the backstage. The show starts not long after they’re all disappearing to the backstage. It was brilliant!

All of the fashion shows ran smoothly and even if they were delayed, it’s still considerably normal. Even though it’s a men’s fashion shows, but the event succeed gathered the hype and attention from Jakarta‘s ever stylish fashionistas, both sexes. Feel free to browse through our Facebook fanpage to view more runway images from the event.

Until next events!

All images are courtesy of art8amby.

Featured Article: Indonesia Tatler’s Ever After

Indonesia Tatler held an special event earlier this month at Sampoerna Strategic Square, Jakarta, entitled Ever After. The three day event specialized in everything that brides-to-be needs before their big day.

As expected, you can see installations from wedding photographers, fashion designers, caterers, and other supporting tenants that will make your big day even more special. On the second day, Saturday, July 14th 2012, we attended the fashion show, presenting the latest collections from two of Indonesia’s most prominent fashion designers, Andreas Odang and Sapto Djojokartiko.

Andreas Odang opened his sequence with a svelte yellow and baby blue lace cheongsam dress. The color palettes for his collection are mostly lovely soft tones (baby blue, icy pink, champagne and white), with a dash of bright (yellow and green). We are loving the satin sleeveless dress encrusted with crystals and also the white dramatic ruffles dress, that fits perfectly with the modern yet sleek chignon created by Gusnaldi‘s team.

Gusnaldi transformed the sleek chignon into fabulous messy ponytails for Sapto Djojokartiko‘s fashion show afterwards. In less than an hour, all of the models strutting the catwalk in totally new hairstyles, in which the Solo born designer presented latest collection from his Bride and Evening line. Bravo for Gusnaldi and team!

Dotted lace, tulle, French lace and chiffon are the most seen fabrics on Sapto‘s runway. He applied flowers appliqués on the delicately beautiful dresses to made it even more romantic. Some of his dresses are sporting the must-have trends of 2012, peplum. His lace cheongsams are enriched with strategically placed peplums and exquisite embroideries. The intricate embroideries also appeared on his wedding gowns and velvet sweetheart neckline evening dresses.

We leave you with links to the complete runway images and also our special backstage coverage, so all you brides-to-be can get more inspirations for your special day. Of course, those who’s not yet married and people who just loves fashion can also view the images

Don’t forget to follow our Twitter account, @art8amby for the latest news in fashion, models and magazine world, and also our Facebook fanpage for more editorials and runway coverage. Until next fashion shows, y’all!

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All images courtesy of art8amby.

Featured Article: Mel Ahyar 2012-2013

Sapto Djojokartiko (click here to read our coverage on his show) isn’t the only ESMOD alumnus who presented the latest collection during ESMOD Jakarta Fashion Festival 2012 earlier this month. Fellow alumni, Mel Ahyar, shown her latest collection at Skeeno Hall, Gandaria City, entitled “The Scrapbook” which gained positive buzz and reviews amongst Indonesian fashion people.

She combined two different fabrics to created edgy and fun looks in which tweed, tulle and lamé made quite a number of appearances. With her exceptionally fun shapes, quirky patchworks and embroideries, she made her latest collection very attention-grabber yet impressive. Especially with the cheeky face masks that made it looks theatrical and also the used of corsets as accent.

The colors are mostly muted and black, but that’s what made it subtly special because you can wear it and yet people are still pay attention because of the unique details. It’s amazing that she didn’t go crazy on the accessories, because only platform ankle straps that completed the looks. Now, we’re intrigued to see more from her.

Browse through our Facebook fanpage for the complete runway images from Mel Ahyar.

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All images courtesy of art8amby.

News: Anne Hathaway at the London Premiere of The Dark Knight Rises

image WENN.com

Anne Hathaway look effortless chic in Gucci Halter Dress, Jewelery from Tiffany & Co and Nude Satin Pump from Casadei at London Premier of The Dark Knight Raises.

Featured Article: Sapto Djojokartiko Ready to Wear 2012-2013

Sapto Djojokartiko, a name that’s synonymous with uniqueness, intricate detailing, somewhat romantic yet mysteriously gorgeous designs, has launched his second ready to wear collection earlier this month in conjunction with ESMOD Jakarta Fashion Festival 2012. The Solo born designer presented no less than 36 looks that are very wearable, easy to mix and match yet edgy with subtle sexiness.

The collection was even better in real life as we got a peek before the fashion show held at Skeeno Hall, Gandaria City, started. You may click here for more backstage snaps from us! The see-through mesh sweater with print panel was adorned with crystals, a details we almost missed on the runway, while the girls are screaming for the red ensembles for sure.

Sapto started to used and explored new things and shapes in his latest designs. Crystals were attached and dangling from the collars and sleeves; digital prints were used is some of the slouchy sweaters; he transformed the unmistakable Indonesian ikat prints as tops, pants and sexy shorts; and of course, those amazing textured fabrics shown in blazers, pants and dresses.

Center parted flowing hair, bold gold lips, statement accessories (Balinese janger necklaces, collar-like beaded necklaces, and gold flowers and beads adorned belts) and sexy shoes (in lace, gold sandals, ankle straps patent leather and platform lace up heels) completed his ready to wear presentation, in which the fabulous models stomping the white runway in Woodkid‘s Iron–our new favourite song.

We are hoping that the collection will hit Jakarta‘s store very soon, because for now, you can only get his latest designs at Beachwalk Kuta, Bali. We also wish Sapto Djojokartiko to have a menswear collection ASAP because we are dying to wear those amazing cigarette printed pants and nude mesh sweaters!

Special thanks to Tommy TMPL for the runway images. You may view the complete looks, here.

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Featured Article: Backstage Images of Winning Mark 3 Grand Final

Hair and make up has always been THE most essential part in the world of beauty and fashion and it takes the creative mind of a true talent to produce an extraordinary ensemble.

‘In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.’ – Coco Chanel

And boy, do we fully understood what she meant when we attended the Grand Final of Winning Mark 3, a biennial make up and hair bridal competition held at the Grand Ballroom of Ritz-Carlton Mega Kuningan, Jakarta on Tuesday, May 29th 2012.

There were 10 finalist competing in each of the three categories – International, Traditional and Modern Wedding categories. Each of the finalist was handpicked and crowned the winner in their respective regions. At the event, they displayed their individual artistic make up and hair talents to their finest and impressed not only the judges with their creations but the audience alike.

While awating for the results to be announced only at the end of the show, the audience was treated to a visual feast by Indonesian make up extraordinaire, Qiqi Franky and Ave Sanjaya. As usual, the duo never failed to impress with their interpretations of hair and make up masterpieces. Ravishing Selma Abidin, who is returning on the catwalk scene after giving birth, open the show for Ave Sanjaya alongside other models in International Wedding gowns.

Next in line was a gorgeous model in a traditional Balinese ensemble followed by Whulan Dary Herman, 3rd runner-up of International Model Of The Year 2009 in her gorgeous gold dress and exquisite headpiece from Palembang. Top runway model, the elegant Laura Muljadi appear soon after in an Indian inspired dress and make up. Thomas Sebastian, Mister Indonesia International 2010 swept the ladies off his feet next with a display of his fine,chiseled body alongside other gorgeous model in an intricate Javanese wedding dress.

Runway veteran Nayla Alatas and Best Male Model in Asia Model Festival Award 2011, Hendy Bramantyo walked the runway next in a beautiful black velvet Solo wedding dress with gold embroideries. Ave Sanjaya kept the best for last with a dramatic sequence of Oriental male models (in Rinaldy A.Yunardy headpieces) fighting over two girls who wore lovely cheongsam dresses. The feud stops when an ” Empress”, played by Pantene spokesmodel Dominique Agisca Diyose, arrived on the runway.

Finally the result of the Grand Final Winning Mark 3 was announced and what’s impressive was Traditional and Modern category were won by the same person. Congratulations from us!

At a glance, we felt the event was a little too far streched, saved only by Ave Sanjaya and Qiqi Franky display of talents. Ave Sanjaya with his amazing skills in hair & make up and the gorgeous bridal costumes while Qiqi Franky, on the other hand with his mile-long Rapunzel braids, multiple cubes on Marcella Tanaya’s head and of course that “pirate-ship” hair do on Dara Warganegara!

Qiqi was also the artiste responsible for Katya Talanova’s colorful LT Pro head piece in the finale. Those fabulous make up done by him were matched equally with one-of-a-kind dresses from Sapto Djojokartiko and Tex Saverio (his dress were worn by Lady Gaga on Harper’s Bazaar US and on her Asian tour!). Anyway, if you are curious to see their creations..feel free to browse through or Facebook fanpage for more images taken at the backstage of the event.

Until next time, people!

Please do not reproduce the content from this post in its entirety without permission. Images must be accompanied by a working link to this post.

All images courtesy of art8amby.