Saturday, November 14, 2015



Well hello darlings, you are here and I appreciate that.
Welcome Back!
After exactly six months of unending buzz, and all the hype lately, thanks to the epic promotion (even I was sucked into using hashtag Balmainnation :-0), the highly anticipated capsule collection, the baby parented by Balmain and H&M was dropped on Nov. 5th in select H&M stores. Some pieces from this collection had nothing to do with subtlety or minimalism. Over the top comes to mind, so does 70’s flair and opulence. 

The Jist
I drank a sh*t load of caffeine and waited up till 5am when the collection dropped online and in stores. Oops, website crashed and the error message about a lot of visitors on the site kept popping up. I refreshed as frantically as possible, ended up saying f*ck the site, moved on to plan B which was to pick my friend up from around the corner and head out to the store. The line of people that camped out all night wrapped almost around the big city building on Powell street San Francisco that houses the brand.

Holy cow! It didn’t matter if they were all reseller gangs or folks shopping for themselves, it was time for plan C. We headed off to Westfield mall two blocks away and were greeted by a shorter line. Colored bands were handed out and the color you got determined what time you could go in and shop. I applaud the brand for great organization, letting shoppers in 15 at a time and allowing each group 20 minutes to shop. And oh, you could only buy 2 pieces of each item. We enlisted the services of a shopper that was number 2 in line and headed out to get out caffeine fix. She delivered, and I’ll be using her again in the future. Boy was that a smart move, the first group that went in cleaned out the collection!

The Look
I had obsessed over this jacket like I said in my review here and I'm glad to have snagged one before it was completely gone. The rack that held them was picked clean in no time, I kid you not! Today I’m showing how I styled it as an anchor with very simplistic supporting pieces. I stayed away from thigh high boots cos that seemed to be the "default" way to style this piece following in the footsteps of the models in the campaign. This heavily embellished piece needed no introduction. I balanced out the trendy jacket with classic solid black high waisted shorts and a simple lace bandeau for a neutralizing effect. I even kicked heels to the curb (which I rarely do) as I was determined not to have any other piece competing with the star of the look aka this beautiful beaded velvet jacket - BBVJ, which btw is still an H&M piece regardless, hehe. I look forward to styling it differently soon. Pops of color here and there maybe, we'll see.

Then What?
Like I read in one mag and I forget which one, the worlds of street wear, fast fashion and luxury are now almost indistinguishable. I nodded my head in agreement. These fresh out of the oven pieces look nothing different that the luxe versions from the House of Balmain. I foresee everyday street pieces being elevated to higher levels by the fashion elite and street style stars sporting pieces that would normally only be on runways. Like Coco Chanel rightly said, "Everyday is a Fashion show and the world is the runway”.


The Verdict
One thing I can say for sure is that it was another successful H&M collaboration. H&M has collaborated with fashion/style icons from Karl Lagerfield in 2004, Versace in 2011 to Alexander Wang in 2014, Balmain in 2015, who is it going to be in 2016, 2017, 2018 and beyond? Any predictions? Any one in particular you’d like to see offer those enticing iterations/prices to their fans?

The Dream
I’d love to see <<< DRUM ROLL >>> : Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad, Krikor Jabotian, Valentin Yudashkin, Alexander McQueen, Fausto Puglisi in that order. They all have one thing in common: unique, over the top, jaw dropping, so up my alley.

Your thoughts?


Deets
Jacket - Balmain x H&M
Top - Bebe
Shorts - Zara
Ankle Boots - Zara

Thanks for reading and you guessed it, keep thinking the purple thoughts, :))).

post signature

Shop The Look

91 comments:

  1. Great look my dear!! !I like the remarkable and modern elegance of you :-) Beautiful color of lipstic <3

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  2. This jacket is gorgeous, I love it! I need that on my wardrobe!:)
    Looks amazing on you!:)
    Happy weekend!
    xxM
    http://sunstreetbymonica.blogspot.com

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  3. Hello Idu,

    i see a very stylish fashion-combo. black and white has always a great look. i love so many thing on you: this necklace is really pretty. your lilac lipstick is unbelievable - what a colour...your pair of shoes are interessting and very comfy. but i wished, i could see heels on this outfit. finally i see tights on you - great. this opaque tights has the right colour to your clothings - love that a lot.

    Bye.

    Jennifer

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  4. Wow congrats on scoring such a stunning piece! I love how you styled it!

    Bella Pummarola

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  5. I knew u'ld do great justice to this jacket darling.. Can't wait to see what you do with it next!!
    I love ur style anyday darling...

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  6. Wow...this look is amaze-balls...the pieces are so classy styled together the way you did wishing I would get those shorts here in Nairobi...Your lipstick is super super..I love it. Have good weekend dear and keep slaying...

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  7. I was looking forward to seeing how you will style this jacket and I must say you did a great job! Urban glam in all its glory...I do love how you dressed down that jacket by pairing it with all black and biker boots...but it is still very sexy with that lace top. You look so gorgeous!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  8. That jacket is lovely!!
    http://dimplekhadi.blogspot.com/2015/11/faux-fur-trend-3-how-to-wear-skirt-in.html

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  9. So lucky you Idu, i ve tried to buy some pieces but it was impissible.
    This blazer is great, i think it s one of the best piece of this capsule collection.
    Kisses

    www.angelswearheels.com

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  10. this jacke is the best of this capsule collection
    I wish you an happy day
    a big kiss
    <<< fashion blogger >>>

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  11. The jacket is fantastic and your legs are sexy and wonderful in those tights. so exciting!! xoxo

    All Things Bright and Lovely

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  12. I really love you :) I see you for a long time, I'm impressed!


    Can you follow me? I follow you :)
    If you comment my post, I will comment your five posts! :)

    http://www.sandrakopko.com/2015/11/dark-dots-dress.html

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  13. Loooving the jacket!!!!


    The Cutielicious
    http://www.thecutielicious.com
    Federica

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  14. This was my favorite piece from the collection! I love your look!
    Dora www.BangsBang.com

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  15. woah! Stunning and breah-taking look! You killed it <3

    http://www.lauramacij.com/2015/11/fall-stories.html

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    Replies
    1. Yay for plan C, Idu! :D Congrats to this magnificent piece - fantastic styling!

      xoxo Ira
      JOURNAL OF STYLE / BLOGLOVIN

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  16. Wow congrats Idu. The jacket is my favorite piece of the collection. My sister tried her luck online (3 hours) and failed to get anything :D I knew I wouldn't get anything anyway and didn't try at all. You look totally stunning. Happy Sunday!

    MIASMODE

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  17. I'm not used to see your ootd without heels but you are so glamorous in this outfit Idu! Your precious jacket is really nice and is perfect on your totally black ootd! Have a nice day, kisses (and thank you for your visit),
    Eni

    Eniwhere Fashion
    Bloglovin of Eniwhere Fashion

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  18. This jacket is one of my favorite pieces of the collection. Love it!
    xx

    http://www.mybeautrip.com

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  19. This is absolutely stunning! Have a great new week.

    xoxo;
    STYLEFORMANKIND.COM
    Follow my blog with Bloglovin

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  20. what a great post ! beautiful pics ! keep working dear ! blog is interesting

    www.madamedaria.blogspot.com ! if u like my blog just follow me and i will follow u back asap

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  21. Your style is stunning dear! Lovely post. Have a great week! xx

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  22. Oh babe I have just posted my #hmbalmanation look too :)! love the jacket on you, great combo babe

    such a great look, love your style, you are an absolute stunner babe! kiss from London

    BamBam
    Blog


    xoxo

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  23. Mehnn this jacket got me tripping Idu...it looks really good on you.. That shorts hmm...heading to zara right away

    Glowyshoe blog

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  24. For ever Gorgeous . darling.

    http://mystylebykartia.blogspot.ca/

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  25. My thoughts, dear Idu? How good you had so much caffeine and you were awake in front of the monitor because: the jacket is awesome and you styled it perfectly! I'm convinced you will wear it very often as this perfect piece seems to be made especially for you. Have a happy new week <3
    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
    www.dressedwithsoul.com

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  26. Spectacular,you look amazing
    I love that jacket

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  27. Amazing jacket. I won a ticket to the pre-sale of the collection here in the UK but sadly couldn't make it.

    www.mydailywear.co.uk

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  28. I love this jacket a lot, but after seeing the price tags, I wasn't bothered to purchase. Yes its designer, but a single mother like myself has better things to do with the money. Lol!!
    I like the casual approach here. First time seeing you in this sort of look. Pretty girl!

    http://missymayification.blogspot.co.uk

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  29. That jacket is fabulous! You look stunning!

    www.lincolnparksharp.com

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  30. The jacket is fabulous ! You look lovely as always.

    www.stylewithtami.com

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  31. Forever slaying! I love this look and how you styled it. Just stunning.
    www.effortlesslady.com

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  32. Hahaha, your story on how you got it is so entertaining. I am scared of long lines and things getting out of control especially in a situation like this. Good thing it was a win win situation because you look so nice. There are so many ways to style this phenomenal jacket and I am sure you will definitely do a great job! Now you can sleep :)).

    http://www.thefashionstirfry.com

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  33. So in love with the way you styled it. Place C was a slam dunk! So organized.

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  34. great look my dear, love the jacket and that sunglasses!!

    http://www.thefashionprincess.it/

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  35. You are one of those people that style comes naturally to and you never disappoint Iduuuuuuuu. xo

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  36. Hy my darling u look s always like a queen... the balmain jacket looks fabulous on you and is perfect with this outfit! So cool and glam!
    a big kiss
    http://www.sweetbea.it

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  37. Abosolutely great post dear! Hope you have a lovely day.

    ** I'm inviting you to join Love, Beauty Bloggers on facebook. A place for beauty and fashion bloggers from all over the world to promote their latest posts!


    LATEST POST: Makeup Geek Eyeshadow Swatches & Review xx

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  38. Love your post, great content!

    Only 5 MORE MONDAYS till CHRISTMAS!!

    MyLyfeMyStory

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  39. You look absolutely gorgeous!
    Amazing jacket and shoes!
    xxx
    S
    http://s-fashion-avenue.blogspot.it

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  40. love it! such a diva look!

    love the blog too, girl! if you get the chance i'd love for you to check out mine and let me know what you think! (maybe even follow? no pressure though!)

    have a great week! :)
    love, rach.
    So, hi.

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  41. Getting a shopper who was no. 2 in line was indeed really smart! And I love how you wear the jacket, you let the jacket speaks for itself and toned down the rest of the outfit.

    Shireen | Reflection of Sanity

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  42. Absolutely crazy about this jacket!!!!!!!!!
    I fall in love with it!!!!!
    Your look is perfect, one of my favourite!
    Kiss
    Chiara
    http://shesinfashionblog.com

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  43. One of the best collab ever! I love that blazer, but I choose the coat :))
    xx
    cvetybaby.com

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  44. Amazing Jacket! ! In spain it was imposible! !
    Love your style
    Http:// sweetcarolblog.blogspot.com.es

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  45. Idu, you look so on fleek! I love the bold violet lip color you're wearing! I need that lippie in my life right now, heh :)

    Shanaz | Fashionista NOW

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  46. I absolutely love this look , great styling dear !
    xoxo

    www.sorananistor.com

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  47. Wowww la chaqueta es alucinante! Estas guapísima! Bss
    http://unvestidorconideas.blogspot.com.es/2015/11/dress-style-chanel.html?m=1

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  48. Another lovely look. Your makeup skill is on point. Just lovely.

    Kreyola Jounerys | Instagram

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  49. I may have to join the movement after seeing this post
    That said off to the mall....😍

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  50. You look fabulous! Love that gorgeous lipstick.
    xoxo
    Ramona

    http://www.ramona-strikeapose.blogspot.ie/

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  51. This jacket is made for You my dear. So much Fabulousness in this oufit. . . .head to toe!

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  52. Una auténtica joya de chaqueta, espectacular look y el make-up me tiene fascinada!!!!
    Besitos y feliz semana, Emi

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  53. You look totally amazing in this jacket, it's perfect for you:) I'd like to see a collection from Alexander McQueen the most:)

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  54. Happy Tuesday Idu. Looking forward to see your new post :)

    xx

    www.glamdevils.com

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  55. This jacket is a piece of art my lovely Idu and I think you are incredibly lucky to have it! I love your styling and how magnificent you look!
    Xx,
    Nilu Yuleena
    BIG hair LOUD mouth

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  56. First of all, you live in my favorite city in the world, I'm very, very jealous!
    Second of all, that jacket is gorgeous but I'm hypnotized by your lipstick. It's stunning!
    http://carolinapage.eu

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  57. You have empowered the words strong and chic together! I love that jacket, but I think I would never be able to pull of like you!

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  58. You wore it like it was destined to be yours! I love how you paid it so well with the short and ankle boots
    You look amazing dear
    Enjoy your Evening
    x

    Http://www.fashiongalorelovers.com

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  59. That is one head-turner outfit.
    .
    www.candycrow.com

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  60. Esa chaqueta de Balmain es una auténtica joya!!! Estás espectacular!!!
    Un beso
    http://cocoolook.blogspot.com.es

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  61. I really like your Balmain jacket!!

    www.fashi0n-m0de.blogspot.it

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  62. That jacket is gorgeous!!!!

    www.jerseygirltexanheart.com

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  63. adore it!! u are amazing my love

    http://islandchic77.com/

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  64. OMG darling! Such a perfect look!! I totally love the make up!
    Baci,
    Coco et La vie en rose - Valeria Arizzi

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  65. I would die for Elie Saab! I might actually consider camping out at a store if he were to ever collaborate with H&M. I'm glad you snagged this piece it was one of my favorites. I was able to get the green and black faux fur coat!

    -M
    www.violetroots.com

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  66. Maravillosa chaqueta!!!! La has combinado genial! Eres una artista!!
    Besos

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  67. this blazer so statement!

    http://www.queenhorsfall.com/

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  68. this blazer is everything.! Stunning!
    http://adventuremeetsdesigner.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/ankara-jacket-diy.html

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  69. Omg, you look stunning in this outfit. Reading the story, you have a lot of patient and am glad you finally got what you wanted.
    http://www.thestylegalaxy.com/

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  70. You look super stunning, love this look. You have a lots of patient for making sure you got what you wanted. Well done.
    http://www.thestylegalaxy.com/

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  71. fabulous!! I am so glad you got a piece for this collaboration, I would love to see Fausto puglisi
    Glamoury Armory Blog

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  72. I'm so jealous you got your hands on a collaboration piece! The blazer is such an amazing statement piece. You look fabulous in it!

    Best,
    Christina

    Looks by Lau

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  73. Killer look! That jacket is fabulous and I'm loving that lipstick shade :)

    -Jen

    www.vibrantbeautyblog.com

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  74. I swear... you can make everything look so good! :)

    Love your impeccable make-up as well! :)

    YouTube | Blog: Geekette in High Heels | Instagram

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  75. have a nice weekend!

    www.fashi0n-m0de.blogspot.it

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  76. This jacket is gorgeous ! You are very feminine and elegant :)

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  77. Super cool style Idu! I am fascinated with your coat! Such an unique piece.
    It goes great on black! So 80s and urban!
    You rock baby :***

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  78. Fantastic look and the Balmain jacket is look gorgeous on you.Love it.<3
    Have a amazing Christmas time darling.
    Big kiss & love from BKK.
    Kintan xox

    http://kintanfashion.blogspot.com

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  79. Pearl jacket with these shorts and a little lace top looks just perfect. Love it :) Margot www.iameverywoman.eu

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