Monday, March 28, 2011

Balmy Brisbane

I spent a few days down under in Brisbane, Queensland. It was at the tail end of summer. As the sun rose, its heat and humidity proved relentless.

These were the lovely views on either side of the Victoria Bridge:
Wheel of Brisbane
Treasury Casino on far left
Anzac Memorial

In the late afternoons, a balmy breeze was noticeable, making it more comfortable outdoors. A spot on the grass under the shade was absolutely delightful.

Riverside Receptions
A matching riverside view ensured a perfect day.


As the sun set, shops closed while restaurants and bars started beating with life. Brisbane is not a huge metropolitan city like Sydney or Melbourne, yet. Its night life is certainly lively but not crazy.

Wheel of Brisbane and Performing Arts Centre
Story Bridge as seen near Eagle Street Pier
I heard about a great steak place in the area called Cha Cha Char. It is located at the Plaza level of Eagle Street Pier. I booked a table for one. Annoyingly, the hostess led me to a table in the middle of couples and big groups. Nonetheless, I was resolved to enjoy a good dinner. I ordered the Wagyu rump steak (marbling 9+) with a side of Paris mash. I was imagining it would taste like the David Blackmore Wagyu steak I had at Opus in Hong Kong. Alas, it was not meant to be. The steak was medium rare instead of medium. The bloody taste overwhelmed the juicy flavors that would have otherwise melted in my mouth. I finished it off anyway. The accompanying salad complemented the meaty main dish. The mashed potatoes were velvety smooth but unexciting. With orange juice and a roll of bread, the whole meal came to AU$ 65.

Saturday, March 12, 2011

How to Dress Like a Parisian

If the French woman is the fashion icon of the world, so is the Parisian woman to the French. In her upcoming book, Parisian Chic: A Style Guide,  Inès de la Fressange shares her tips:

via Lonnymag.com

Elegant Living

The March/April issue of Lonny is out and as always I found design inspirations. These interiors are elegant and glamorous but still maintain a lived-in feeling.




All images from lonnymag.com

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Not Your Typical Camera Bag

Kate Spade has redefined the camera bag. I fell in love with it instantly - so preppy and whimsical!

Image from Kate Spade

Friday, March 4, 2011

Black & White

I love the drama of black and white. The stark contrast is just so appealing.
Image from lonnymag.com

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Red Carpet Faves

These are my favorites from the Oscars red carpet:

Mila Kunis perfectly draped in Elie Saab


Amy Adams embodied a starry night in a navy sequin L'Wren Scott cap sleeve gown

Gwyneth Paltrow looked like an Oscar statuette herself in Calvin Klein by Francisco Costa.

Images from moviefone.com