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Posts Tagged ‘korean fashion’

29
Aug

Trend Alert: Mullet Dresses (What’s that??)

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An interesting fact our team discovered today, the various styles of dresses begin with the letter ‘M’. Think about it: Mini dress (dress with short hemlines, way above the knee) and there is midi dress (which is the hot thing in Korea and Korean fashion now) which features hemlines between the knees and ankle. There is the all-thing favourite maxi dress (which is still hot in Korea, being made in all kinds of colours and prints, casual ones to hit the beach with and formal ones for the evenings) where the hemline of the dress hits the ankle. And now there is mullet, which coincidentally beings with the letter ‘M’ as well.

Oh wait, what is mullet?

Mullet is not a separate style from mini, midi and maxi style dresses, it is an overlap in style. Have I lost you? Take a look at the pictures of celebrities and models in mullet style dresses below and spot the difference similarity.

Lovely, isn’t it? Mullet hemlines are sometimes called tail hems as it is longer at the back, resembling a tail. It is sometimes called shirt-tail hem, tapered hem or cutaway hem. Basically, it is a skirt or a dress that cuts longer at the back and was actually featured as a major 2011 fashion trend.

A shirt-tail hem traditionally cuts shorter on the sides, with a longer tail at the back but nowadays it has evolved to any dress, skirt or even top that have a hem that is shorter in front and longer at the back.

Why was the dipping hem created by designers? (fyi: to clarify, this style isn’t started by korean fashion designers but have been around for sometime) Don’t you think some of the dresses above look playful? One side conveys elegance (with the tail) while the other conveys sexiness (revealing).

Types of mullet hems

As seen from the pictures above, there are numerous types of mullet hemlines, some have an exaggerating tail, some are created by a piece of long, hanging chiffon while others are just a short dip. In here, we summarise a few examples we see in the “mullet” scene:

  • A simple hem cut at an angle
  • A petal hem (where the fabric overlaps in front like petals of a flower)
  • A hem that’s cut from very short to very long – i.e mini to maxi
  • A hem that falls into large drapes or pleats at the back

Look at the pictures above and see if you can identify which dress fits the 4 descriptions above.

If you ask me which of the four types above is more popular, only time will tell. One thing’s for sure, when the mullet trend hits town. Others will term it as simply “asymmetrical hem” or “tail hem” but you can put a proper name to it and impress your girl friends.

Looking for mullet dresses from Ministry of Retail? Click on the pictures below:


Featured: Bohemian Mullet Dress, The White Princess Dress, Faux Leather Braids Midi Dress (not featured)

Article referenced from “Tail hems: dresses longer at the back”

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16
Apr

What is your FRUIT?

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OK. Don’t get me wrong but I am referring to your body figure/shape/size, and trust me, not many of us are aware of that.

When I look at the beautiful models on magazines (and even those on MinistryofRetail.com), I often slip into a daydream mode and imagine myself to be as stunning as the model (able to relate, anyone?). However, as harsh as the reality is, we turn out to be total opposite (imagine the disappointment the popped bubble) and we may start to go into this self-denial mode but the actual problem may not lay in the models, the clothes or ourselves – it could just be that the particular design/fabric is not flattering for our body shape.

Pear and Apple shape

By “what is your fruit”, it means whether you know what your body frame, body shape and body size is? What should you know? This is so in order to bring out your own personality, or in other words: PERSONAL STYLE.

You may see a lot of classifications elsewhere but in this article, we’ll keep things simple and use 2 common fruits: The Pear & the Apple.

The Pear

As illustrated in the picture above, ladies with ‘pear’ body shape has more weight around the hips and bottoms area. Thus, to balance the look, they need to look for clothing that can elongate their figure and take the focus off this area. Wearing dark colours and slim cuts helps in trimming down the bottoms (think dark jeans or A-line skirt). If you are wearing a dress, pairing it with a belt (make sure you wear your belt slightly higher up your waistline, not at the hips area as you don’t want to draw more attention there) helps. Hard to visualize? Look at the ensemble we’ve prepared for you using these Korean clothing:

Flowy Blouse

Try something new like this fun colour to draw attention away from your bottoms if you're a pear shape!

Strings Attached Cardigan

If you're not that bold, try using a scarf to get all the attention to your face. As you can see, if you're of 'pear' shape. Always direct attention away from the bottom area.

Note: Direct attention to your tops using fun colours/prints or even details at the neck area.

Make use of jackets, as jackets give more structure to the shoulder and have interesting details around the neckline. Choose a jacket that the length is long enough to reach below your hips.

Black Cop Coat

Remember to choose a jacket with lots of details, such as the Black Cop Coat, which has lots of gold buttons and zipper details.

Pumpkin Blazer

Blazer with hip length are ideal for Pear shape.

If you have beautiful shoulders, SHOW THEM OFF! Remember, you want to focus your attentions towards the top, not the bottom. Keeping it simple on the bottom and you are free to play around with the top and accessories!

Autumn Goddess

Fun colours and lovely details enhances your whole outlook.

Sheer Duo Tunic

Don't be afraid to use accessories, but don't over accessorise.

The Apple

Apple body shape has more weight in the upper body and their legs are usually thin which may look a little off balance. If you’re of ‘apple’ shape, it may be helpful to shift and divert the attention elsewhere, onto the bust and legs instead. For obvious reasons, avoid wearing huge pattern prints at the top but if you love prints, don’t skip them – wear them as bottoms instead!

Since you’ve got great legs. Wear short skirts or shorts with heels – you will definitely look like a knock-out! If your butt is not well defined, wear jeans with pockets. If you want to wear dress, make sure it’s of “bubble” cutting, and wear a vest over (don’t forget to belt it up). Basically, you need to know how to balance your look; top and bottom.

Take a look at these Korean dresses as a guide:

http://www.ministryofretail.com/images/Korean_Dress/D00738.jpg

Jailbird V Dress

Bubbly Chocolate Dress
Body Shape Calculator
Not sure what shape you are? Take this quiz from “Body Shape Fashion Advice” to find out!
p.s: It’s quite entertaining interesting as some of the descriptions are pretty funny.

Last Tip
Last but not least, the most precious essential tip – practise, practise, practise! As the saying goes, “practise makes perfect!”. You may want to mix and match the pieces in your wardrobe and plan the items before you actually step out of the house in them. Try out different cutting to see what suits you.

Something different, something new – you never know what you’ll find that suits you :)

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26
Feb

Get in touch with the femininity in you (with korean fashion)!

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What would you think of when you hear the word “femininity”? For me, I would think about lady-like manners; grace, demure, flowers (especially white roses), the colour white, maxi dresses, high heels, natural/nude make-up, Nicole Kidman, Audrey Hepburn, Song Hye Kyo, Kim Ah Joong… … and the list goes on.

If you look at the dictionary, feminine means “of, like, or traditionally considered suitable for women.”

Feminine is woman’s nature and no matter how you deny the fact, you will have a part of femininity in you. When I was posed a challenge to dress ‘lady-like’, it’s a nightmare for me – believe me when I only use one word to describe my wardrobe: TOM-BOY.

At the beginning, I was clueless on how to dress up like those beautiful ladies we see online, but I realized it’s not so daunting after all. Take this korean skirt (‘Double Layered Skirt’) for example:

Korean fashion - Double Layered Skirt

Made in soft colours, with netting, the skirt is sure to melt hearts

I can create different looks with just 1 skirt (playing around with my hairstyle, as well):

Korean fashion - Double Layered Skirt

Bun up the hair, throw on a simple tee and a more elaborate cardigan, not forgetting that all important lady-like necklace and I'm good to go!

If you want to have a simple yet versatile look, just match it with a formal blouse. Or if you want a sweet demure look, you can just match it with a nice tee or cardigan (and not forgetting your accessories).  Lastly, I personally love simple yet sophisticated look. Just wear a white shirt and pair it up with a knitted sweater. Not forgetting about hair style, I will bun my hair up or if I want to let down my hair, I’ll just wear a hat.

Korean dresses are my all time favorites, I’ll never get tired of wearing them and the best thing is you can match it with heels/sneakers, depending on what style you want. (Sweet school girl/valentine.) Take a look at the pictures below, I simple love the White Lady Duo dress as it gives a sense of feminine cum boyish style, and I love to pair it up with sweet soft colours.

White Lady Duo

The laces creates a soft style and the design is simple. Match with a pair of sneakers for a boyish look.

I love to match it with a dark brown belt and a milky white headband.

Another best thing about Korean dresses is that they never run of out trend. Pick neutral colours such as white/brown/black and you’ll never go wrong. If you’re feeling adventurous, choose red/peach/pastel pink/jade.

Ever since then, I can’t stop my eyes from viewing Korean clothing. Be it shirt, blouse, jacket/coat, sweaters, shirtdresses, I LOVE THEM ALL! I would get very frustrated if I were to spend a long time thinking what to wear and how to match them. However, Korean clothing has made it such that no matter how you wear or match, you will always look good and feel great.

Let me give you another example using Femme Cardigan:

Femme Cardigan

Cardigan is versatile no matter what clothing you throw at it.

Since it is winter season, cardigan is a must in my wardrobe. Cardigan are not only easy to mix and match with other clothes especially korean dresses, it can be worn by itself too. Nevertheless, I love to match earth colour cardigan to colourful top/dresses.

Let’s not forget about feminine clothing, I am referring to blouse/tops. They are essential to our day to day life and they are in my top list. Nowadays, corporate wear is becoming more “relax” in a sense that you can have feminine patterns on them. Just look at how they make use of pearls and roses on Celebratory Tunic  and Pearl Drops Blouse.

Celebratory Tunic Top

Using bold details of roses, gives off feminine instinct.

Pearl Drops Blouse

A typical sleeveless ruffled blouse but it have pearls lining the ruffles.

Won’t you agree that it make us look even more feminine? I love the cutting and how korean fashion designer experiments to create versatile pieces that enhances our feminine side.

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17
Feb

Casual Ambiguity – Feel Like Wearing Casual Dresses?

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Have you ever wondered if you could wear your favorite maxi dress or that skinny jeans with your chiffon blouse to work every single day? If you ask me, how I would want to dress for work every day, my answer would be: CASUAL. The reason is really simple, it’s comfortable and I love clothes that I can not only mix and match easily, but make a fashion statement. I would love to dress casually but it depends on the day of the week, of course.

Let me show you why:

What would I be wearing on a Monday you’d ask, I’ll be wearing either Casual Wrap Dress or LBD:

Korean Dress - Casual Wrap Dress

If you need something casual, the best material to go after is cotton. One good example of this is Casual Wrap Dress.

Korean Dress

Little Black Dress can be comfortable and versatile. Note: This dress is currently restocking and will only arrive in early March

Though casual and made in cotton, these dresses look smart and fun depending on how you accessorize. Want to look smart? Tie your hair up, accessorize with pretty pins, a simple long necklace and a pair of heels. Want to go casual? Pair this with sheer stockings and a long knitted cardigan. Most people would have “Monday Blues’ on Monday and feel lazy or can’t be bothered to dress up. Hence, these 2 Korean dresses can really pull off quick style under five.

On Tuesday, I’ll like to be a little more funky. I love to mix and match my casual dress with sneakers. Like this Diamond Cut Dress:

Diamond Cut Dres from MinistryofRetail.com

If your workplace allows (if and only if), pair a casual dress with white sneakers. Look funky and relaxed in this piece.

The colour combination (white with royal blue) of this dress is great! Pair up with my white sneakers and a stunning hair band and you’re ready to go. The best thing about this dress is, when you want to dress smartly, simply just wear heels. It will compliment the dress nicely.

Wednesday is the most difficult days for me to choose clothes, because of meetings and evening appointments. Thus, I will always love my clothes to be an “all-rounder”.

Wrinkled Grey Jumper - Twirl the grey tie and turn it into a scarf

Wrinkled Grey Jumper - Twirl the grey tie and turn it into a scarf

Like this Wrinkle Grey Jumper, I could just wear a jacket/blazer with it to office in the day without worrying if I might look under-dressed. In the evening, just remove the jacket/blazer and I will still look gorgeous.

As we are getting closer to the weekends, Thursday is the day when I will start to dress down a little. It’s also fashion to wear romper but Korean fashion has a unique style which I can’t take my eyes off:  Jumper Trio

Jumper Trio - For the fun-loving elf, no matching required.

Jumper Trio - For the fun-loving elf, no matching required.

I love this because I will wear it when I’m feeling lazy and when I don’t feel like matching my clothes, but it brings out the fun-loving side of me.

Casual Belted Dress - For the lazy days when you just want to put it on and go

Casual Belted Dress - For the lazy days when you just want to put it on and go

The Korean dress above; Casual Belt Dress is my all time favorites dressing style for work on Friday. It’s simple and nice, and most importantly the belt plays a role to help my clothes stand out. If you don’t wish to use the brown belt, a black or red colour one would do just fine. If you want to glam up a little, try using a high waist belt or a blazer.

So, would you still think CASUAL wear is not suitable to be worn in the office?

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25
Jan

Military Fashion Trend Alert – Are You in Control? (Part 2)

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In the previous article we introduced some shirts and dresses. When one thinks of “military”, jackets and coats will definitely come to mind.

Military style jackets/coats can create a well-defined look with a combination of feminine elements for the ladies. I love the details, cutting and the buttons which bring out the unique image. Military-feminine is also a feature of korean fashion.

Military Style Coats include the tabs/epaulet at the shoulder and synchronised rows of buttons lining the coat.

Military Style Coats include the tabs/epaulet at the shoulder and synchronised rows of buttons lining the coat.

The best thing about jackets/coats, it will go out of style.  Try pairing your military style coat with pleated skirts and fitted jeans or leggings. It will even go well together with maxi-dresses too. I will never leave home without a jacket/coat because it’s too simple to wear it where ever and when ever.

A military-style jacket. This is more laidback made in a less military colour (khaki) and feminine epaulet made from beads and sequins.

A military-style jacket. This is more laidback made in a less military colour (khaki) and feminine epaulet made from beads and sequins.

Alright, let’s not forget about Military style pants. They are not only essential but also a necessity, another common feature of korean fashion. I remembered it was close to end of the year and the winds were really strong, I couldn’t wear any dresses or skirts at all, thus my only choice: Pants/jeans

Military Style Capri Pants loaded with lots of silver "buckles". Pair this with boots and silver chains!

Military Style Capri Pants loaded with lots of silver "buckles". Pair this with boots and silver chains!

They are not only comfortable to wear but I love the way it carries out the style, causal or smart. I enjoy matching heels, sneakers, sandals, even boots, you name it and they will fit with anything. It’s that simple. Military style pants cuts are more towards skinny and shows off your curves. Right now, designers also make use the trend of high waist line. Thus, giving off a sense of classy yet sophisticated look. Try this Military style pant: The Tapered Pants.

Military style pants with patches (different colour) and big deep pockets.

Military style pants with patches (different colour) and big deep pockets.

With the details like silver zips and big bulky pockets, the entire look and feel of this pant is very masculine with strong clean lines. The bottom is slightly tapered but you can also unzip (small zip area at the bottom) for extra comfort.

All in all, I’m in the mood for Military style. Be it shirt, shirtdress, coat/jacket, pant, they are created uniquely and it’s easy to mix and match with our normal day to day clothing. Girls, let’s take over and prove to the boys we are in control!

**The Military Style Coats and Pants featured in this post are from Singapore’s Online Korean fashion retailer, MinistryofRetail.com.**

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20
Jan

Chinese New Year is Not Just About Red Packets! (Don’t Dress Like One Either!)

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Don’t know how to dress up without looking like a rabbit? Alright, keep those *fur-ry thoughts away and let me share some ideas for the reunion dinner and for the first 3 days of Chinese New Year (don’t know what this is? scroll to the end of the post for a little history lesson).

Reunion dinner: Everyone from the family will be usually gather and have dinner at some renowned Chinese restaurant (or at home), thus the need to look presentable. Try a simple dress with fun colours, such as this Korean dress – Bursting paint drops dress

A sunny spring frock bursting with colours - perfect for the Spring Festival (aka Chinese New Year)!

A sunny spring frock bursting with colours - perfect for the Spring Festival (aka Chinese New Year)!

Not only is it fun, this dress brings out the fun-loving and sweet side of you. Don’t catch a cold (nobody likes to fall sick during Chinese New Year)! Pair it up this with a jacket sweater or cardigan if you’re dining somewhere cold.

Chinese New Year Day 1: This is the day when most people will go visiting and sometimes the entire extended family will gather at an elder’s place. The important places to go to – paternal and maternal Grandparent house, the in-laws and your extended family. Usually these elders are pretty senior and traditional. Watch your dress sense – don’t wear too revealing tops or short skirts and leave a bad impression (deemed as disrespectful).

Dare to be different? Try this lovely loose-fitting green dress with the gold belt that enhances the feminity and uniqueness of the dress.

Dare to be different? Try this lovely loose-fitting green dress with the gold belt that enhances the feminity and uniqueness of the dress.

It is always good to wear dresses, like this Korean dress, Jealous of green or sophisticated and elegant looking korean fashion blouse like Fair Princess will do the trick.

The Koreans definitely know how to weave elegance and simplicity together. This cream coloured blouse is a good fusion of elegance and simplicity.

The Koreans definitely know how to weave elegance and simplicity together. This cream coloured blouse is a good fusion of elegance and simplicity.

I love the way they brings out the ‘lady’ in us. Thank god for korean fashion.

Day 2: 2nd day is reserved for visiting of relatives as well. For some families, they visit their paternal relatives on the 1st day and their maternal relatives on the 2nd day. It’s important to dress comfortably as Day 2 is going to be another long day. Try this Korean fashion piece; Double layered skirt as it is light weight and the designs is unique. It is easy to match – just throw on a simple blouse or t-shirt (non-printed ones, please) and you will still look gorgeous.

Try a simple and fuss-free skirt like this (Double Layered Skirt) to survive the long day.

Try a simple and fuss-free skirt like this (Double Layered Skirt) to survive the long day.

Day 3: Some Chinese believe they shouldn’t visit anyone on Day 3 due to superstitious reasons such as people will be in conflict on that day. However, the younger generations no longer believe in this tradition and continue to host parties or invite guests over. If you’re having a party or gathering at your place that day, you can afford to relax and dress down a little (*of course not just jeans and a spaghetti top). You can try a bright colour with interesting cutting, draping and details, such as this Korean top; Drapes turtleneck

Let this bright and interesting piece (with all those criss-crossing drapes on the back) brighten up your day!

Let this bright and interesting piece (with all those criss-crossing drapes on the back) brighten up your day!

It’s a simple top but with interesting designs and cuts. Just throw this on with a dark jeans and you’re ready to host your party!

**A little history lesson on Chinese New Year

For the benefit of our international or non-Chinese friends, Chinese New Year is the “biggest” holiday for the Chinese population around the world. It’s also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival (many parts of the world is still in winter though) and marks the first day of a new year (lunar calendar).

The night before Chinese New Year. Most Chinese families will have ‘reunion dinner’ whereby they gather to have  dinner (either at home or at a Chinese restaurant). On Chinese New Year, they will visit their grandparents or parents and relatives. Usually this is done over the span of 2-3 days. The elders or married will give red packets to the children as well as those who are unmarried. Usually it is the children who truly enjoy themselves as they gather and play with their cousins, get red packet (which contains money) and eat new year goodies (such as bak kwa).

According to Chinese horoscopes which consists of a rotating cycle of 12 animals, 2011 is the year of the rabbit.
The order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
How did the order come about?

According to Chinese legend, the Jade Emperor (“king” of gods) announce that they’re creating a cycle of years and a group of animals quarreled over who was to head the cycle of years. Seeing the chaotic state the animals was in, the Jade Emperor decided to hold a race: the position of the animals will be determined by the order of them reaching the destination.

All the twelve animals gathered at the river bank and jumped in. Unknown to the ox, the rat had jumped upon his back. As the ox was about to jump onto the bank, the rat jumped off the ox’s back, and won the race. Hence it was awarded the first place and the ox got second. The pig, who was very lazy, ended up last.

**The Clothing featured in this post are from korean fashion retailer, MinistryofRetail.com.**

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15
Jan

Military Fashion Trend Alert – Are You in Control?

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ATTENTION! Look out guys because girls are taking control. Everyone knows the word Military; we will always link it with the guys, soldier-like. Military has portray a strong masculine image due to its origins.

Right now, fashion designers has taken yet again another challenge, fusing military and femininity to create military fashion. Fashion designers have been bold to use colors other than black and dark blue (associated with navy). The outcome: Military Style - A True Knock Out!

I am in love with shirtdresses, be it in white or black, military style shirtdress are smart, sophisticated but still very feminine to the eye.

Feminine Twist to a Military Style Shirtdress (Tab Shirtdress from MinistryofRetail.com)

Feminine Twist to a Military Style Shirtdress (Tab Shirtdress from MinistryofRetail.com)

Shop for Tab Shirtdress? (http://www.ministryofretail.com/g-tab-shirtdress-p-781.html)

Most importantly, they are easy to mix and match and it’s daytime perfect. (And can even be worn by girls less well endowed in the chest area!) Try this: you can play around with the belt to give a different outlook and mix it with a pair of heels to give it a more feminine touch. Or match it with a pair of sneakers and sweater; you’ll get a school girl look.  I definitely wouldn’t mine owning this shirtdress with the navy belt that adds a touch of class.

Smart Military-Style Business Shirt (Business Lady Shirt from MinistryofRetail.com)

Smart Military-Style Business Shirt (Business Lady Shirt from MinistryofRetail.com)

Now, it’s becoming a trend with Business Lady Shirt style. When one think of “shirt”, the serious and corporate look usually comes to mind. Shirts also solve my Monday morning headaches (usually Mondays are formal days). No more Monday Blues! I can look smart and formal just by matching this ‘Business Lady Shirt’ with a pair of well-tailored pants and heels.

Cut the fills! Pair the shirt with well-tailored pants or skinnies for a smart, no-nonsense look.

Cut the frills! Pair the shirt with well-tailored pants, skinny pants or crops (and not forgetting those shades) for a smart, no-nonsense look.

Shop for Business Lady Shirt? (http://www.ministryofretail.com/business-lady-shirt-p-821.html)

When it’s time to kick off those heels and chill out. I’ll just tuck out my shirt, fold up those sleeves, let down my hair and I’m good to go. When choosing shirts, do scrutinise the material used. Most business lady shirts are made of  silk-like and thinner material, which makes it very comfortable to wear in Singapore’s climate.

If you noticed, Military style is nothing new. It constantly fades in and out from the fashion scene. If you get a well-tailored piece in classic and sensible colour with good cutting and style, it will never go out-dated.

**The Military Style Dresses and Shirts featured in this post are from Singapore’s Online Korean fashion retailer, MinistryofRetail.com.**

This is an original article from MinistryofRetail.com. If you wish to quote this article, in part of whole, please kindly link back to http://www.MinistryofRetail.com/blog

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11
Jan

Blog – What’s Brewing on Ministry of Retail.com?

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Dear all,

Ministry of Retail is blogging!

In our endeavour to providing stylish and quality korean apparels at wallet-friendly prices, we thought of having a platform to share some fashion tips and report on the latest fashion trends. We hope you enjoy reading the korean fashion (or generally, fashion) articles as much as we enjoy writing them. Feel free to share your thoughts and comments (no racist or .

If you wish to share your thoughts or need help in dressing up for certain occasions (for example, you’re attending a black-theme wedding dinner, how do you avoid being too boring and safe and look like everyone else?), simply drop us an email or comment and we might be able to help you with it :) If you feel inspired to test out and review the style or share your fashion tips, feel free to contact us too.

–
Have a nice day!
Ministry of Retail

Top Singapore Online Shopping Site for Korean Fashion and Korean Style

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