Ode to My Fashion

Revamping my shoes: Corsage style I was watching Japanese national TV: NHK the other day and came across a very interesting program: Kurashi no Patona ( The partner of the living). It is a weekly program during which some expert on sewing or knitting showcases how to make pretty things. That day, some lady was showing how to revamp shoes (or any other fashion accessories) by making corsages. She made it seem rather easy and quick. Her work was so beautiful, it inspired me to do the same. However since I am on the lazy side, I decided that instead of making corsages from scratch, I would just buy them and stick them to my shoes. And that is what I did today. I was going to the Daiso in Isezaki Mall (they call it a mall, but it is rather a Shotengai). I saw several cute corsages and bought like 5 of them. I wanted more but had to limit myself. How many corsages a girl really need? Not that many! My corsages (each a 105Y or $1.30) Two Japanese design, two polka dots and one ma

It has been so hot lately that I have not put any effort into "dressing up". I usually wear a jean and a shirt or a tube dress to walk (and get on the bus) around Naka Ku. But I wanted to change a bit today. So on my way to city hall (to get my resident card) and China Town I decided to add a few accessories to my outfit.  This is what I wore: Outfit of the day Red lace tank- Factory 2 U White top - Ross Calvin Klein Jeans- Ross White scarf with red roses- bought years ago in Japan for nothing Dollhouse Lomo Sandals- Ross Hand of Fatimah necklace- bought at home Japanese design corsage- Daiso Isezakicho Silver ring- bought in Vivre Yokohama years ago Red roses scarf Dollhouse Lomo sandals Hand of Fatimah necklace and Japanese design corsage My favorite ring You ask me what is special about today's outfit (because I wear the same variation everyday, particularly this top) and I would tell you that it is the accessories. I love the scarf for its si

In the US, you have the mall; but in Japan you have the Shotengai. (They also have malls) Shotengai are little commercial district where they sell everything from fresh produce to clothes. It is not necessarily a market because it is usually little shops along one street. Shotengai can be found almost in every populated district. And they tend to senior citizens or housewives. That is why the prices are competitive and the fashion a little suspicious. However like all bargain places, you need to dig a little to find a jewel. The reason why enjoy Shotengai so much is because you can find pretty much anything you may need. Moreover the prices are affordable. Sometimes, you can even bargain with the shop owner. On top of that, all the shops are in the same area and tiny, so it is fun to take a stroll there. It is not overwhelming like big malls  or department stores where you walk miles, take the elevators to find a specific store. My first experience with the Shotengai happened in O