Michelle Monster

Purpose of a blog?

2010-02-12T08:16:00.000-08:00

Long time, no update!

Whoever is still reading this has probably realized that I have several blogs under my belt.

I've categorized them as this:
My "personal" blog over at LiveJournal
My event production blog, over on WordPress, that I write with my business partner.

And this one sort of fell through the cracks in the meantime.

When I look at well-followed blogs that I follow, I notice that they all encompass one particular subject. Some of them just focus on DIY projects. Others on fashion news and tips.

Well, seeing as how I am now the proud owner of www.iamchubbybunny.com, I'd like to create a blog that's focused on the work I do there! I've just imported this blog over to iamchubbybunny.blogspot.com!

So please add me over there, as this blog will now go into its final resting place... mwuahah!

Summer Smacks.

2009-09-02T09:29:00.000-07:00

Summers in Los Angeles are weird.

Growing up in good ‘ol Pittsburgh, where we have 4 seasons (a normal fact that of my students in Japan regularly questioned me about… do their textbooks all say we live in the Sahara???), we have a rainy and miserable spring around April, then slowly transition to summer weather by mid-June, complete with humidity, summer showers, and sunburned sweaty necks populating the city.

In LA, at least the part of it I live in, you spend most of the “summer months” of June through mid-July, in a warm, but comfortable state, sometimes wearing jeans, sometimes shorts, but not feeling a distinct urge for either. Occasionally you’ll have a bubble of heat pass over your local area, and you’ll gripe about not having a proper fan yet.

(Side note: I currently own ONE fan which has the following defects: 1) I found in the dumpster and taped back together since the entire outer shell was shattered 2) is a window ban, but doesn't actually fit in my window 3) makes loud rattling sound, since I have propped it up on the ironing board next to the window, and eventually shakes itself off, causing it to break into more pieces.)

Then, suddenly, true “summer” gives you a little smack in the face to let you know that it is not just a myth. My apartment of late has been full of stiff, warm air, no doubt an affect of the fires blazing around here. I find that summer sneaks up on me here primarily because of the lack of humidity. The heat sort of seeps into your skin, and then, Surprise!, you find perspiration on the small of your back. This is very much unlike in Pittsburgh, where you wake up in a pool of sweat, and spend the rest of your day vaguely soaked in your own juices.

Is it weird that I somehow miss “real” summer? I certainly will have to escape this winter to the mountains for a “real” winter, which I haven’t seen in ages. FYI, “real winter” includes, and is not limited to:

1. Snow

2. Enormous coats which make you too hot in your car, too cold when you step out of it, and are cumbersome to lug around once you reach the indoors

3. Hot beverages

4. Learning how to “drift” into actual snow drifts, hoping to God a large piece of metal or giant bricks are hidden in the snow pile.

5. Eating a lot and not feeling too bad about it, because you feel that, just like a bear who is prepped for hibernating, you are simply building a seasonal layer of fat to keep out the weather.

Strange that I'm finally into summer in LA and am already reminiscing about winter.

Save the Date! Bosozoku bonanza!

2009-08-30T17:59:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, September 16th at Royal/T Cafe in Culver City!

Get your Japanese Biker Gang outfits ready!!! Epic party, with FLIPPING OUTRAGEOUS photo booth co-designed by ZIPPERCUT and BUBBLE PUNCH!!!! (team-up group of myself and yume_ninja!)

Details ro come....!!!

Bosozoku photo for inspiration:

And let's not forget RIKI in this amazing music video.

INSPIRATION GOLD, PEOPLE.

Betsey Johnson Meet and Greet at her Melrose store!

2009-08-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

A very, merry, belated birthday to Ms. Betsey Johnson! I scooted down to her store on Melrose yesterday afternoon for her Bday bash + meet and greet!

I donned my sparkly Betsey dress and shoes, and made a headpiece with matching pink veil to mark the occasion :3 HEADPIECE SOON TO BE AT MY ETSY STORE! hehe....

The crowd was very fashionable, and very friendly, as expected for an event of this nature. I remarked that I wish they'd open up a Betsey Johnson bar/club/sock hop one of these days so I could spend my evenings lounging there after a hard day's work!

Her Birthday cake, shaped like present boxes, with a dress up top:

Mandy's pal Esther, who was the one who called her up and alerted us to this festive time :)

Betsey arrived in style in a red convertible! Here she is giving a little specech... my god, she is a super vivacious woman! I'm so envious of her rockin bod, as well!!!

From left to right, myself, Betsey, Yume_ninja , and Mandy

Call me a ham, but i LOVED this marabou coat from her new fall line!!! If only I had $700 to blow on such a fluffy overcoat :(

Ah, it was a great time, filled with pretty people, rockin music, and so much Betsey energy!!!! Although Betsey asked us girls to stay so that we could meet her grandchildren, we had to dash for dinner plans (as well as our aching feet). Sigh!! Come again, soon Betsey!!

Events: Japanology @ Royal/T

2009-08-10T10:04:00.000-07:00

Hey there kinky people! If you’re free this Thursday, stop on by at Royal/T to see myself, Yume Ninja, and Zippercut in our naughty maid photobooth, posing with guests XD

Here’s the event breakdown, taken from Zippercut‘s site!

JAPANOLOGY SERIES: tokyo kink

The JAPANOLOGY SERIES @ Royal/t is a unique study in social sciences, using the ethnography of Japan and its anomalous subcultures as a central thesis…. Each month, a different facet of Japanese subculture will be explored… This month, on Thursday August 13th, Royal/T seeks to expose the hidden side of Japan–love hotels, “Tokyo Kink,” pink eiga, and more. The movie “New Tokyo Decadence – The Slave” will be screened at 9pm. Come well beforehand (8pm) to participate in a discussion and get your drink on before we all get “tied up”….

FETISHWEAR ENCOURAGED!!!! ZIPPERCUT mini photobooth – get your picture taken in the Chamber of Desire…
The JAPANOLOGY series @ Royal/T is a FREE EVENT, once a month (mid month), different topic/theme.

Event pics: Japan LA 3 Year anniversary

2009-07-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

I had the lovely job of escorting Ms. Hello Kitty around at the party- and we had a blast! Some silly photos"

Photographer Dan Santoni also stopped by for some shenanigans! (www.dansantoni.com)

Also Junko! She's the designer for Purrr!, the brand my dress I wore for my pinup shoot!

Photoshoot: Pin-up Sailor

2009-07-10T22:50:00.000-07:00

Recently, I went over to Santa Monica to do a fun pin-up inspired shoot with my friend Oscar of Divide By 0 Photography

True Mee Lee, aka yume_ninja, was such a integral part of putting together the outfit and hair... she even did my makeup for the shoot, as well as edited the first 4 photos you see below! She's truly a great friend, and great inspiration!

Love the results, so here's a peek at my favorite photos from the set!

The following photos were edited for lighting contrast by =D
4)

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9)

Hellooooooooooooooooo Sailor.

Outfit of the Day: Altered Yukata

2009-07-02T12:08:00.000-07:00

All dolled up for the Japan LA 3 Year Anniversary party I was helping at, I hiked up my summer yukata and got down to business!

Using the hairstyles of geisha from Sakuran as my hair inspiration, I was trying for a cute toned down version of it… I think I was somewhat successful..?

Events: Desolation Holiday Photo Gallery

2009-07-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

You are cordially invited to “Desolation Holiday,” a photography gallery event hosted by Dan Santoni and Apollo Star. I’ve been helping them plan the event for the past few months and also working behind the scenes on Dan's photoshoots... I’m really excited for this event and.. YOU SHOULD BE TOO!

More info here:

“Desolation Holiday” celebrates the contradiction of glamour, beauty, and high fashion with the everyday baseness of the human condition.
Come celebrate a night of exquisite photography, and mingle with not only the photographers and subjects themselves, but also enjoy the spectacle of live sculptures exhibiting garments used in the photographs. The night will include photographs based around the theme, by a hand-selected group of accomplished photographers.

The gallery will include works by:
Apollo Staar: http://apollostaar.com
Dan Santoni: www.dansantoni.com

Chad Michael Ward: http://digitalapocalypse.com
Robin Perine: www.robinperine.com
Saryn Christina Photography: www.sarynchristina.com
Renard (Hanzo) Garr: www.modelmayhem.com/renardgarr
Heidi Calvert
Ashley Fontenot

Dan Santoni images featuring; Sybil Danning of Rob Zombies Halloween, Grindhouse, and Howling II fame.

Presenting Wardrobe Designs by Delise Ana Designs
http://www.modelmayhem.com/790080

Hosted by Yvette Lara
Featuring live models Kat Lee (www.myspace/kitkatlee.com), Tiffany Trenda, and Merkinstache.

Details:
Date: Jul 18, 2009
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Ultra Star Gallery
6432 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
Ultrastarstudio.com

If you're interested in coming, please be sure to check out the facebook event site: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=237463585240

I am very Jealous of the East Coast.

2009-06-23T18:26:00.001-07:00

For the honor of Greyskull.....

BUY SOME SHOES!

Ah. So, so, so jealous.

Events: Japan LA 3 Year Anniversary Party!

2009-06-22T17:07:00.000-07:00

Celebrate JapanLA's 3 Year Anniversary! Saturday, June 27th! The party will be at JapanLA, 7pm - 11pm.

*Take Your Picture with Hello Kitty
*Free Gift Bags for 1st 100 People!
*Free Cupcakes, Snacks, and Drinks!
*Raffle with Special Prizes from tokidoki!

I'll be working at the event, so stop on by, chat with some awesome people, and snap up some awesomely cute items! You can browse their stuff at Japanla.com!

Video/Photo shoot with Image Mechanics

2009-06-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

Recently, I modeled for ImageMechanics.com so they could make a reel showing off the capabilities of the new Canon 5D Mk II. Check out the video below for some strangely vibrant video of me! Man.. the future. It's awesome.

Vertical Video Harajuku Fashion Shoot from Michael Britt on Vimeo.

This video was shot on the first day the new firmware for the Canon 5D Mk II was released which allowed manual exposure modes. It was shot in vertical orientation to maximize the resolution for simultaneous hd video and stills captured in raw format (VCS - Video Capture for Stills). While the video was running, the shutter was triggered to capture still images. The last video frame freezes and several following frames are missing as the camera switches modes. My contacts at Canon say it is around 1 second of missing video but it seems to be as little as three or four frames. Lighting was Profoto HMI with a beauty dish. The shutter click is the actual sound the camera makes as it captures the high res raw file. The white transitions were added as a visual buffer to the next clip (no flash was used). The camera was mounted on the Redrock Micro DSLR bundle. ImageMechanics.com (music by Max Tundra)

Chubby Bunny Bows!

2009-06-22T00:41:00.000-07:00

Creating a product that matched my personality.. and well, my old high school nickname... was a piece of cake! I recently opened up shop over at Etsy to feature my chubby bows and other fun accessories that I've been designing in my spare time.

Take a gander, if you please, over at Chubby Bunny Accessories! I'll be announcing new products and concepts as this project takes shape over the summer!

Inspiration: Fallen Princesses

2009-06-22T00:09:00.001-07:00

I've been brainstorming for ages about new ways to do the Disney Princesses in a photo shoot. This set by Dina Goldstein really blew me away, though.

I feel like these are the strongest in the set, but you can check out the full story and full set here:
Fallen Princesses

Top 10: Fall 2009 Shoes

2009-03-13T22:23:00.000-07:00

Oh my god. Shoes.

SHOES.

2009 Fall runways were KILLER for shoes right up my alley. Here's a countdown of my top 10! Uhm... I mean 11 because I couldn't bring it to 10...

11. Louis Vuitton
Yowza. This shape reminds me of the future.. as they pictured it in the 80s. if you're not following me here, think BLADE RUNNER. I love the fun heel, but not a huge fan of that big cut out in the middle... I would have liked to see more of the round beads played out over the top of that area somehow to pull the design together.

10. Pollini
A very simple and elegant matte black shoe combined with an off-the-wall heel in bright colors. Absolutely love it! I'd like to see some pink brought to the front of the shoe as well, but I guess I just can't have everything, can I? Oh wait. I CAN (see #1 Mwuaha).

9. Kenzo
Whoa dude! I see what you did there! I like the fantastical shape of the sole/heel, and also the fact that the top can zip off and make this a bootie is a nice touch. Convertibility always gets a bonus point in my book. The overall shape is a bit clunky though. The zipper on the ankle unfortunately gives the wearer a bit of a cankle when viewed from the side. But as you'll see in the 2nd photo, from straight on, it looks MADDENINGLY SKINNY-FYING! Mysterious. Gotta say, the gold/yellow color is really doing it for me, as well.

8. Armani
Love the heel, love the jeweled tights.. the toe is so so. But the velvet and the shape of the heel give off a a very.. noir boudoir feel, y'know? Sexy and awesome.

7. Antonio Berardi
This just in: Rivets, cogs, and other hardware in shoes = AWESOME! I love the tiny detail of the metal "hinge" in this shoe.I'm also a huge fan of booties and white shoes. Throw in a playful heel that looks like a cleaver going into a melon, and you've got me hooked, baby. Dammit!

6. Viktor & Rolf
I shall call it... the VICTORIAN MOON BOOT. As corny as that sounds, I really like how this looks. Sort of reminds me of the way rain boots are shaped up top as well. This suffers from a severe cankle, but I like the played up heel (see how it narrows up at bit at the top? classic). The Victorian-esque buttons are also cute as pie. For some reason, I think I'd like to see this boot with a white base, accented with sky blue buttons and heel. HEAR MY CRY, VIKTOR AND ROLF!!

5. Hussein Chalayan
Am I a super nerd to say that one look at this and I thought, "Silk Specter!?" Hm. Yes, I am a nerd. The garter-boot is apparently the new hot thing to do on the runway this year (well, at least Prada also seemed to get the memo this season). Add a bunch of lovely shiny leather and you've got a boot that will give any outfit a huge boost. Of sexiness. Mm hm.

4. Frankie Morello
Born Free.
I love Geometry.
Loving the space aged heel on this shoe! The entire shoe looks like fondant carefully curled around the edges of a cake. Closer inspection of the ball of the shoe makes one think of.. stepping on a teacup, I dare say. Love the way this is all patent and gold, too. I think I'd like to see this shoe in a chocolate brown color as well. Yum yum!

3. Fendi
Diiiiid somebody say the word SPATS?!? Because if you did, then you're... well, you're educated about what clothing items are called, I guess. These pony fur (at least in the first picture they are... I think) boots are FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC, and the fur gives it a marvelous texture. This shoe is also convertible (see above... AUTOMATIC BONUS POINTS!)I dig the classic rounded toe, as well as the extra strap that goes across the top of the foot (See! Fendi did it! Where Vuitton failed!! see above...)

2. Viktor & Rolf
Yep! Two here in this post about Viktor and Rolf. My buddies. My pals. LOOK AT THIS AMAZING CUT OUT! I am mentally screaming with lust after these shoes. Reminiscent of leather armor/filigree/Final Fantasy (haha did you see that coming? I SURE DID), these are such a beauty to behold. I can't even say any more. Well, that's not true. Annoyingly, I can't see how high this boot actually is, because all of the looks on the V&R runway were knee length skirts/pants or longer! GAHHH! HOW HIGH ARE YOU!!?!? that is the only reason you are at #2, my dear. Because you are MYSTERIOUS.

1. Louis Vuitton
Ohhh wait, did I just say Vuitton failed? Because actually, what I meant was, THEY WIN AT LIFE. LOOK at these gorgeous things! They hit all my marks perfectly... 1) Make your legs look longer (thigh high, check!), 2) Have interesting texture (polished leather base, luxuriously thick velvet ribbon lacing, CHECK!), 3) are awesome (see all of the above. CHECK!) Yes, yes. Y-E-S. Not as complex as the shoes above, but I think they say what I want immediately: I LOVE SHOES. I LIKE SHINY THINGS. OBEY MEEEE. <3 src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_CTrf2-qtZGM/Sbs3seTB3OI/AAAAAAAALxA/AWOLIWNwSWA/s800/louisvuitton5.jpg">

All in all, a hell of a season. Speaking of Hell, I need to move the H-word out of this constantly warm climate so I have an excuse to wear MORE BOOTS in my daily life!

Contest: Peppeina's Blog Candy

2009-03-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

Peppeina's is hosting a contest, where you can choose your favorite item for a chance at free goods and a gift certificate! Check it out here!

Portfolio of things

2009-03-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

I organized a few photos of some of my past work and posted them all neat and easy to my new Picasa account!

Click HERE if you're interested in taking a gander.

I have photos up of modeling, styling, as well as retail merchandising displays I've recently done.

Photoshoot: Tweedle Dee & Tweedle Dum

2009-03-11T09:41:00.001-07:00

Long time, no post!

Recently, I teamed up with my A-team (model/graphic artist/my BFF True Mee, and photographer/boyfriend Will Bradley <3) style="text-align: center;">Tweedledum and Tweedledee
Agreed to have a battle;
For Tweedledum said Tweedledee
Had spoiled his nice new rattle.

Just then flew down a monstrous crow,
As black as a tar-barrel;
Which frightened both the heroes so,
They quite forgot their quarrel.

Concept and styling: Myself + True Mee
Photography: William Bradley
Jackets: Alexander McQueen for Target
Berets: Baby, The Stars Shine Bright

Radio Silence!

2009-01-09T11:32:00.000-08:00

Indeed, it's been a bit since I've posted here- mostly due to my being in lovely Paris for the past 2 weeks!

Not really fashion related, but you can read my updates about my Parisian winter shenanigans on my personal blog here:
http://iamchubbybunny.livejournal.com

Also, due to the fact that the blogging service known as Livejournal may be due to close sometime soon, this blog could become my primary outlet.

Beware!

OOTD backlog!

2008-12-17T12:42:00.000-08:00

Shorts: Zara
Jacket: Second hand
Blouse: Express
Tights: Fashion district
Shoes: F21

Dress: F21
Jeans: Uniqlo
Hat: 300 yen accesory store grab bag
Boots: Nice Claup (Japanese brand)

Dress, socks: Metamorphose
Hat: BTSSB
Jacket: F21

Fantastic Fête: Rococo Rendezvous, produced by Zippercut

2008-12-05T13:01:00.000-08:00

Last night, Zippercut produced their very first event, titled "Rococo Rendezvous," over at the Royal/T maid cafe in Culver City.

Well over 100 people were in attendance, snacking on hors d'oeuvres and watching the fun lineup of 3 bands play in the back room. What really strikes me about Royal/T is it's copious amounts of space in an area where I've become accustomed to tiny venues. Culver City has never truly been a mecca of large galleries, so Royal/T is definitely a venue to keep your eye on for future innovative events. Zippercut was wise in its choice of the yet-unexploited Royal/T venue to host their event at.

Zippercut did a great job with the guest list as well, with attendees such as Hannabeth (of indie scene fame), Onch (from the recently wrapped "Paris' New BFF"), myself and Jenna Winterberg (editors of Gothic & Lolita Bible), staff from LA Weekly as well as Soapbox films, to name a few!

It was really refreshing seeing people of all ages dressing up in elegant styles. Gorgeous evening wear, Lolita fashion, rococo wardrobe, and other period garments were well-represented at this event. I had a blast being as costumey as possible in my self-styled Snow Queen getup.

Here are just a few pics from the event. (All photos (c) of William Bradley)

Left to Right, Yume, Onch, and myself.

Mandy Ma, one of the organizers of Zippercut.com, posing with Hannabeth.

Plenty of Epic Garb to round out the night!

Click here to view the rest of the fabulous photos!

OOTD: a backlog

2008-12-05T12:49:00.000-08:00

Some coordinates from the past week or so. The change in weather has got me very inspired and tights-crazy!

I was feeling impish and Christmas crazy on Black Friday, and wore these duds out to help out at JapanLA.

Dress: Vintage
shoes: Secretshop/Angelic Pretty
socks: Swimmer
Necklace: 6%dokidoki
belt: Forever21
Sweater: H&M

Bleached my hair out and got in the mood for plaids this past week!

Jacket: Peace Now
Tank: eHyphen
Boots: Fluevog
Belt: Vivienne Westwood
heart tie pin: Superlovers
Socks: Target
shorts: H&M
necklace: secondhand

Feelin the British Beat.

Shirt, studded watch: Superlovers
Tights: Mashalls
Shorts: f21
Shoes: Sme weird store in Japan
Belt: Vivienne Westwood
Scarf: Goodwill bin

A very Blue day to You, Sir!

Dress: H&M
shoes: Double Decker
belt: eHyphen
Tights: Target!! On sale, baby.

Fantastic Fête: Vivienne Westwood's Anglomania spring 2009 preview

2008-11-21T10:01:00.000-08:00

Oh, the world of Vivienne Westwood.

First introduced to her via the Sex Pistols, my love for her fun fashions, ridiculous shoes, and glorious orb logo on her bags and wallets have left me a Westwood fan for all time. After living in the Vivienne-obsessed land of Japan for almost 3 years, I've been able to hone my Westwood-ese pretty well over the past decade.

Last night, I attended the Anglomania 2009 preview, held at Em & Co by 3rd and Fairfax. After some correspondence with the affable store owner, Evaline, I was excited to see what the store had to offer, as I had never been.

Dressed up a bit for the event in some of my VW gear, as well! OOTD ahead:

Scarf, skirt: Vivienne Westwood (skirt is Red Label)
necklace: World Wide Love
Shirt: second hand shop

The staff and guests were a pleasure to meet. I met a lot of ladies excited about the Gothic & Lolita Bible, and even some people who tell me they swore by it when they were in their teens, which is always good to hear.

On the walls hung huge canvases by Biagio Black, with the 2009 Anglomania pieces sectioned into two small racks along the wall.

The Anglomania collection itself was an array of muted colors, with the exception of two canary yellow pieces, and a small collection entirely in white. A few models made the rounds wearing the new Anglomania pieces, which were available for pre-order at the event.

Unfortuantely, I didn't feel like any of the pieces for 2009 were different than what I've seen in the past 2 years from Anglomania. I liked them 2 years ago, and I still find myself liking them more, but I was hoping for at least some louder fabric choices or slightly different draping. Check out these two items for spring 2009, a vest and suit jacket pattern, that're strikingly similar to 2007/8's collection...

Barring Dame Westwood's Anglomania line's lack of boldness, the event was still very enjoyable. Overall, the event was well-attended, the people great, and the 15-minuite-late ice shipment for beverages inconsequential. I hope to be back at Em&Co. again soon for some more of their fun fashion events.

Fantastic Fête: Reebok 2009 stylist preview

2008-11-21T09:54:00.000-08:00

As a woman of many talents (?), I found myself helping out at this event on November 18 which introduced famous stylists to Reebok's 2009 spring line in the stunning setting of the celebrity-laden STK restaraunt on La Cienega. Joining the celeb stylists were talents such as embers of the cast of teen-movie Twilight and the spunky kids from 90210.

The setup was grand, the food impeccable, and the shoes super cute. Reebok's customizable shoes were definitely all the rage at the party, and you can jump on the bandwagon as well! Check out www.reebok.com and click on "Customize" to enter the glorious world of shoes you can design! At a price range between $70 and $90, this is quite the deal.

Check out a sneak peek of some of the new styles below! Oh 2009, you can't get here soon enough!

Snoop Dog says, "HAPPY THANKS GIVIN, YO"

2008-11-20T07:17:00.000-08:00

While not entirely relevant to this blog, I think it is my duty as a citizen to make sure as many people view this footage of Snoop on Martha Stewart's show being awesome.

When two titans collide, making mashed potatoes can become a world of wonder and surprise. Seriously. WATCH IT.

OOTD: Pianos and Polka Dots.

2008-11-17T10:17:00.000-08:00

Dressin up for work. Feeling frisky and retro today.

Dress: Innocent World
Shoes: Alice and the Pirates
Socks: Candy Stripper
Bolero: Offbrand
Feather hair clip thing: Le Chance

Event Recap: Princess Picnic, November 14, 2008

2008-11-17T09:06:00.000-08:00

As much as Los Angeles is a city of nighttime soirees and star-studded events strewn with liquid libations, I still find that the afternoon activities in this town are as original and fun as the Angelenos that inhabit this patch of desert.

This past Friday, Ms. Joellen of Firefly Path (www.fire-flypath.net) hosted a "Princess Picnic." Girls showed up in a myriad of poofy dresses in all colors of the rainbow, ranging from Disney princess garments to elven inspirations. Joellen also kindly invited out some photographers to capture her guests at their most royal.

Check out my queenly duds here:

Set at the visualy stuning Balboa Park in Van Nuys, the heat didn't seem to bother the princess and princes at the park!

Check out photos snapped by myself and yume_ninja of the delightful event!

Fantastic Fête: Signature Magazine Launch Party

2008-11-14T07:41:00.001-08:00

Last night, I was kindly invited to the Signature magazine launch soiree, and invited Mandy of Zippercut (www.zippercut.com) along as my fellow partner in crime.

We ponied up to the venue, searching for the "free valet" they had touted on their invite, found nothing, rounded the block a few times, and found one lonely valet man in an alleyway across the street from the venue waving a flashlight. SIGNS, people. Let's use SIGNS to tell us where to park, please!

After that bit of confusion, it was on to the party, cleverly hosted inside Interior Illusions (8448 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood)... a furniture store! The decor was great, and with lots of plush beds to lay about, the crowd warmed up to the idea of sprawling on them as the the night got longer and the drinks got stronger. I love a party where one can playfully muss up a bedspread with their pals and have it be entirely non-sexual.

Grabbed a copy of Signature magazine and was pleased with the contents- focuses on the "high end" Los Angeles scene, so there was lots of coverage of LA fashion week, a feature on Kobe Bryant, a posh editorial spread by photographer Matthew Mitchell, and interviews with a slew of philanthropical Angelenos, which was my fave part of the magazine. Too often does the world of glamour forget about our duty to volunteer and work for a real cause... not just your OWN cause...! Kudos to Signature.

You can snap up Signature on stands asap! Or, order a year long subscription for just $10! (whaaat?)
http://signaturelamagazine.com/

Great party with fabulously dressed people, and some peeps from The OC that I didn't recognize. Drat! Must get on that "popular TV" wagon sometime this year...!

We met some fabulously unique people this night, so hello there to wicked fantastically dressed Grady Cooley, the feathery and beautiful Ms. Drew Bird, the blonde bombshell herself Katt Lee, and the photogs at elitescene.com (check out their site in a few for photos from the night!)! Hope to see you all again soon!

Mandy of Zippercut looking bashful

Outfit of the Day (OOTD, for those not in the know).

2008-11-14T07:24:00.001-08:00

My new obsession will surely become yours.

Well, let me rephrase that. I've always been into dressing up as fun as can be for both work and play, but only recently have I relize I should document these things before... time erases all memory, I suppose.

So here you have my outfits from the past two weeks. Read 'em and weep, fellas.

Shirt: Modeling Camilla D'Errico Tee for Japan LA (www.japanla.com)
Bloomers: Bodyline
Boots: mystery?

Working at Japan LA
Socks: Candy Stripper (candystripper.net/)
Dress: Innocent World (www.innocent-w.jp/)

Dressing up for PMX (pacificmediaexpo.com)
Dress: Beth by Victorian Maiden (http://www.victorianmaiden.com/beth/index.html)
Tights: Anna Sui
Pearl Choker: Vintage

Cute as a button for the Angelic Pretty event at the Kyoto Imperial Hotel in Little Tokyo (www.cosplayoneesan.org/)
Dress, boots: Angelic Pretty (www.angelicpretty.com/en/)
Purse: Forever 21

Dolled up for a Halloween Party hosted by Royal/T and Japan LA. (Photos from LA Times here)
My Queen of hearts "costume"

What it looks like, toned down, sans veil + train

Dress: BABY, THE STARS SHINE BRIGHT (www.babyssb.co.jp/)
Purse: H&M
Boots: YOUSUKE USA

On the 2nd day of fashion week, Smashbox gave to me....

2008-10-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

Only now have I found the time to actually GO THROUGH the huge goodie bag that Smashbox handed out to members of the press at this past spring/summer '09 fashion week in Los Angeles. Dear God, there was a lot of weird crap in that bag:

A useless mug from Panera Bread, another frat-boy-friendly pint glass from Peroni (repeat from last season's giveaways) and some other strange items that I couldn't figure out how to use.

However, I was very pleased upon opening up a shiny silver package marked "eye and cheek palette: Endless" by smashbox. A very good basics pallette for all skin types, the pigment was rich, and a bit shimmery which, because today it's freaking 85 degrees, will help me keep my summer glow for a bit longer. I really adore the pink tones in the cheek palette (second photo).

Also in the press goodie bag were these smartly packaged ruffians: The "Glowelle 7 day Fit" for healthier, glowing skin.

Now, let me just say that the website and packaging are very nice and very convincing. In fact, I am sure it really does help detox your skin and gives you a glow. However... it TASTES LIKE ROTTEN GRAPES. The "natrual pomegranate lychee flavor" promised by the packaging turned out to be a sooty, strange drink experience. You're supposed to pour one of these little packets into a glass of water and drink one a day. I couldn't even finish one glass because I kept gagging. It tasted like.. drinking crushed up Flinstone's vitamins. The grape kind. Along with a tablespoon of vinegar.

So kudos to you, Glowelle, for helping make women's skin more glowy. I will stick to the smashbox shimmering powder bronzer THANKYOUVERYMUCH.

Big Belt Lovers Unite

2008-10-29T16:31:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, this has already been a trend for a while.. but I was in Japan for 3 years, so sue me! Recently got a hold of two stretchy glorious belts from our cheap yet sketchy pals at Forever 21.

I'm loving me some jewel toned blue this season in case you couldn't tell.

Also, thigh high boots. Did everyone get the memo?

No longer simply the footwear of pole dancers and hookers, the thigh high boots is in like Flynt this fall, as long as it's coordinated tastefully. Vinyl bras need not apply.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2009

2008-10-15T09:58:00.000-07:00

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. It's also the last time that LA Fashion week will be held in Smashbox Studios. The Factor boys decided that they want to evolve LA fashion week from the C-rate celebrity dredged party scene that it currently is.

The few shows I've gandered upon have ranged from wistful and colorful, to drab and horrifying.

Let's start with Monday, shall we?

The "Beach Bunny Swimwear" show was interesting. Hugh Hefner's blonde felon twin girlfriends showed up, setting the scene for white-trash fun. The swimwear itself was uninspired, using runching around the rear for that extra bit of "booty-licious" fun. Lingerie-looking swimwear was par for the course, with male audience members who were clearly there for he T&A and not the fashion were whooping in the crowd to the tune of frat-boy jams from 2003. Oh, the good old days. The line itself wasn't "BAD" per se, but the atmosphere of frat-boy fun really made me want to leave and shower myself ASAP.

Next up was Elmer Ave.'s menswear. The music started off slow, with good 'ol boy music from the 40s playing while models dressed in dapper coordinates walked (is there really any other way but "dapper" to describe this look? While I am a lover of all things throwback, the clothes themselves weren't original. What I did love, was the coordination of the clothing, and the fun prints on the blazers, Elmer's trademark.

On Tuesday, October 14, The Lana Fuchs Couture collection was a fun mix of summery flowers, butterflies and lovely evening gowns. Many of her items employed he use of fabric braiding, creating accents that lined her bodices or hung freely from the garments. The idea of a big braided rope swinging from someone body sets off all sorts of alarms for me, but for Lana, I suppose that's fashion. Here are some of the fun and frilly items that I really enjoyed:
Pillow Ballgown

Blue Mermaid dress

Wedding dress-- excuse my terribly blurry photos

Round up of darkness, as I call it

And finally, we were able to get great seats for Joseph Domingo, a U.S. based designer who really really likes fish scales. No, like.. really. And we love them, too now!
First up, there were a lot of swimwear pieces that featured high cut bottoms and mod-esque tops. What really stood out to me from the onset is... THE CURLY MOHAWK!

YESSSS thank you, God, I am SO GLAD this is a trend now. Get your banana clips out, everyone, it's time to party in the front and party in the back.

In a very superhero way, I LOVE this little mod dresses. The lines and color are fantastic, but not too "out there" for your normies.

The fish scales that Domingo employed ranged from round to pointy.. and I loved the way the pointy ones came out. Very sheik and bird like.

It was a great show!

Okay, onto a little rant section. Thank you very much, PR team for Lauren Conrad, for OVERBOOKING the show, leaving journalists and scene-sters alike waiting in line, tickets in hand for about an hour and a half before being told they couldn't enter. Thankfully, I opted not to wait in the ridiculous line. I had received an email about a week ago, confirming myself and another one of my publication staff for admittance to the show, only to reciece an email late in the evening the night before Conrad's show stating that, "Oh oops, just kidding only on of you can get in." Thank you Red LightPR for being Indian givers.

That's right, I just went there.

One more show is on my docket for Thursday evening, being the Humanitarian Green Show at 8PM. More on that later, kiddos.

West Hollywood Gothic & Lolita Fashion Show photos!

2008-09-30T15:44:00.000-07:00

You can find them here on my other, OTHER blog! I'm proud of the way I was able to style the models as well as become impromptu hair dresser for this show!

Myself and my lovely models (me on the left!)

Which of these is not like the other...!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS AND STYLING NOTES

WEST HOLLYWOOD BOOK FAIR GOTHIC & LOLITA FASHION SHOW

2008-09-23T09:05:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by TOKYOPOP, Japan L.A., West Hollywood Book Fair, and myself :)

Please join us for fashion and photos on the Robertson Stage, and also for giveaways at the TOKYOPOP booth, courtesy of Japan L.A.!

Unforgettable Olympiads.

2008-09-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

Short snippet I wrote for a fashion column (yes, I know it's rehashing a bit of the Lucy Liu tragedy earlier.. but look at that other photo! Bangin!!)

Take a good look, folks. You’re staring at two very different takes on one pure-as-the-driven-snow theme: the 2008 Beijing Olympics, featuring… you guessed it, Asians. Patriotic as all get out, photographer Peter Lindberg captured Chinese-American actress-sometimes-model Lucy Liu flaunting Chanel’s Amazonian look while draped in an American flag, symbolizing, one can only guess, how lovely it is to be an American. Liu’s tousled locks and winning smile make her a surefire fit as a Harper’s BAZAAR poster girl. The couture brand name along with the onyx-accented necklace add haute accents to this otherwise unoriginal photo. Sorry, Lindberg! On the other hand, photographer Chen Zhun had a very different take on the Olympics in the alien-like portrait on the right, emphasizing hair sculpture as fashion and eerie other-worldliness in this alluring photo of a “Siamese triplet” trio of Chinese models. Without a scrap of clothing or jewelry on them, Chun still manages to convey sleek high-fashion with black sand and an amazing hair stylist. The photo is dark and captivating, and maybe that’s why I like it. I can see a sunny smile on glossy covers on the allover newsstands, but something like Zhun’s work manages to speak of high fashion without having to spell it out for you. Deliciously fashionable and well-done, Zhun.

Vote for me! (to go to Tokyo!)

2008-08-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

I recently joined in the fray over at the H&M website to compete for a chance to be a reporter representing H&M at their new Tokyo store opening in Ginza!

I think I've got quite a bit of journalistic experience under my belt, with almost all of it being Japan related, so I went over to my friend Lauran's house, got all fashionista-d up and out, and shot a :30 video!

Please take a gander at my entry here and VOTE for me!

The top 10 voted by "the internet" will then be judged by a panel of H&M reps to decide who will go to Tokyo!

Let's make this happen, people!! VOTE VOTE VOTE! =D

http://www.hm.com/us/?deeplink=tokyo;view;Tokyo-c48dce89-e5e9-4cd5-91bb-dcc6d07e3a22-95-1.mp4#tokyo08

Event Report: Lolita Tea Party at Royal/T

2008-08-08T07:21:00.000-07:00

Recently, I attended the Royal/T X Japan LA Lolita Tea Party, and dressed up a storm, as they say.

What: Lolita Tea Party. High tea was served, a photo booth was set up by some artwork, paparazzi snapped photos, and girls got to socialize.
When: August 3, 2008
Where: Royal/T maid cafe in Culver City, (Los Angeles!) CA
Who: Thrown by Japan-goods store Japan LA
Why: To promote Japanese street style here in LA and get business rolling over at Royal/T.

Americajin.com has some more to say about our Japanese street style over on his site, as well. Can you spot me? It shouldn't be TOO hard...

I had loads of fun, and got to see some amazing coordinates. And, of course, it was a fabulous excuse to dress up.

My coordinate from the event.

My outfit breakdown:
Tricorn hat, shoes: BABY, THE STARS SHINE BRIGHT
Skirt: Angelic Pretty
Top/corset: Vivienne Westwood
Wristlets, ruffled tie-on collar: handmade by myself
Socks: Candy Stripper
Jabot: Algonquins

And of course, some of my best friends were on site for this event.
I adore the sweet look as well (as exhibited by the two beautiful blonds on the left and right (Jenny and Lauran, respectively), but I always feel myself compelled to go to the dark side. My friend Truemee (second from right) and I (duh, guess which one!) decided that black chic was more appropriate for this paparazzi filled event.

Glam Eyelashes from Kakuyasu Uchiide: Bat, Bat, Batter up.

2008-08-05T07:14:00.000-07:00

I am in love with the ultra-glam look of these fluttery buddies. This kind of reckless abandon for all things practical is a large part of what I love about dressing up. The crazier, more over-the-top, and more impractical I make my fashion, the more I feel like an artist decorating a palette , rather than just a girl picking pre-selected popular fashions from the rack.

Ironically, my, and many other fashionable ladies', devil-may-care attitude about the glory that is dressing up was poo-pooed by the hypocritical designer of these lovely lashes. In Kakuyasu Uchiide's interview on PingMag.com , he annoyingly comments on Japanese youth culture's obsession with fashion:

"Being an extreme thing is not so good. I like young people who are trying to find their originality through fashion and make-up that is suitable for their income."

Uhm... am I taking crazy pills? His very industry hovers around making HIGH FASHION goods for a select clientèle of only those who can afford it. Extremes in fashion are something I'm always striving for, though I understand that others may not share my strange hobby. I live within my means, but I try to dress fabulous. And so should you.

Mr. Uchiide is head make-up artist for Shu Uemura's cosmetics line.

Don't worry, buddy. I still like your lashes.

Also, this just in:

Wait, wait, wait..... so... BAZAAR Magazine is trying to tell us that.. LUCY LIU IS ASIAN?!? or... or... AMERICAN? Or BOTH?! Haha... Her horrifying spread centered around Olympics and ACTUALLY draping herself in Chinese and US flags is featured in the August 2008 issue of BIZZAARO.

Shang,ri-LA Nails: Insanity at your fingertips

2008-07-30T07:21:00.000-07:00

The reason I haven't posted lately is because of THESE:

Yes, These are, as we speak, attached to my fingers. Since last week. Hence.... no extraneous typing for a bit there.

3D nail art is very "in" in the Asia, as I call it, and each crazy shape on my nails was artfully sculpted on as we requested any cutesy sweet shape we could think of. This nail bling phenomenon i something a lot of Lolitas employ to make their crazier outfits even crazier: by taking away the use of their hands.

I was the hand model for a Gothic & Lolita article that we have slated for the December issue.

Hand model.

No, I'm not J.P. Prewitt. (If you haven't watched Zoolander and therefor have o idea what I'm talking about, please STOP READING IMMEDIATELY AND GO WATCH THAT MOVIE.)

Of note is the lovely layered cake the nail artist made (3rd photo). She sculpted a triangle base, then created each cake layer by adding another triangular piece of acrylic on top. She even had a row of CHERRIES.

After molding cupcakes, balloons, hearts, and bows onto each nails, she then proceeded to BEDAZZLE her creations with varying sizes of sequins. Bedazzle. On my fingers. I rather feel like a genie, wizard, Jubliee from te X-Men, or other mystical type of magical being who can produce sparkles from his or her fingertips.

This process of lovely-fying your nails is highly recommended, if very pricy. Save it for special occasions, mental health days, or a period of your life where you will not have to use your hands very much (this is what hand-maidens/boyfriends/buddies are for, I've found out)

Shang,ri-LA Nails (yes, that is how they place their commas and hyphens in their actual name)
Torrance, CA
They are absolute dolls, and if you can, request Kyoko.

BABY, THE STARS SHINE BRIGHT: Radical Pink, Balloon Plagiarism

2008-07-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

A merry jaunt over to the BABY, THE STARS SHINE BRIGHT website brought the discovery that there's a new pink in town this summer. Ordinarily, this Sweet Lolita brand is awash with pale pastels to provide as innocent a character as possible, but the introduction of koi pink (deep pink) is a pleasant, if not painfully subtle, color change up from the normal usu pink (light pink). I commend BABY for this daring foray into the world of vibrancy . . . and yet . . .

I fear that BABY is taking their New Freedom a bit too far.
Behold: the koi pink monstrosity known as ギンガムチェックサリィワンピース (Gingham Check Sally One-Piece).
It's a good try, BABY.

The new crazily-named print released by BABY this summer is adorable, although not groundbreaking. They call it . . . "Mary i n the sky with Candies." I cannot make this stuff up, folks.

It looks like BABY has decided to STOP CAPITALIZING EVERY LETTER IN THE ENGLISH THEY USE ON THEIR SITE, as evidenced by the new Mary line's lack of all caps, although they seem unsure as to which letters to keep lowercase now.

The same old themes of flowers, little girls, and ruffles can all be found here in the Mary print. But what's this . . .? YOU'VE ADDED BALLOONS? Surely the Lolita community shall rise up and accuse BABY of ripping off of Angelic Pretty (known for throwing balloons in their Magical Etoile print this past winter).

Or hell, while we're at it, Innocent World's Present Teddy Bear line.

Angelic Pretty: Eco friendly tulle and cardboard.

2008-07-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

Angelic Pretty's latest Tokyo shop blog post proves that the Japanese aren't scared of recycling old ideas.

The latest photos posted on their blog shows the same dot tulle that we've seen season after season from our pals out East. The item in the photos here is their "latest announcement" in their line of cutsews. In reality, this same shirt, minus the choker, was on their racks last summer as well. In fact, I used to own it. I guess if it ain't broke...

Waste not, want not is definitely the Lolita brands' motto.
Observe their shop staff's clever use of cardboard. Is it just me, or has the Angelic Pretty blog becoming increasingly more hilarious?

Don't get me wrong.

I think it's brilliant.

Introducing Michelle Monster

2008-07-22T08:58:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my little world. This is the place where I post about my passion for fashion. A lot of you may notice my preference for gossiping about the latest trends in a type of Japanese street fashion called "Lolita."

Of course, please do pick up my mook (magazine/book hybrid) Gothic & Lolita Bible for information on the latest on Lolita fashion in both the East and West. Oh yeah, and there's always this super informative interview with me on about.com explaining more about the mook.

If you're confused about what it is, make sure you check out this informative FAQ at one of the most prolific Lolita community sites.
Also, the Lolita Handbook is another great informative site to get your bearings on what Lolita is, how to get it, and why it is what it is.

About me:
Name: Michelle "Monster"
AKA: IamChubbyBunny
Occupation: Among other things, Editor at Large for English language version of Gothic & Lolita Bible (published by TOKYOPOP, Inc.), PR guru, spokes model.
Location: Formerly of Japan, now of Los Angeles, California
Other Websites: For well over 4 years, I've been blogging on Livejournal. You can find my antics here, although most entries have been retroactively locked.

And that's all you get for now.

Oh, and this photo of me. (I'm the tiny dwarf one)