Mixed matched

Generally, three factors play a key role in defining one’s wardrobe – character, trend and lifestyle. For individuals who are always on the go, pieces that allow free movement and comfort are must-haves. Then there are those who favor crisp fabrics in clean and well-defined cuts. Often times, they go for neutral tones that are timeless and versatile. The more experimental dresser, on the other hand, prefers brilliant colors, a creative play of texture and bold prints or embellishments. Once you’ve figured out which pieces suit you best, what trends apply to your taste and how an ensemble will conveniently fit into your lifestyle, then you’re all set for next season’s wardrobe shopping.

Putting together the ideal wardrobe is not necessarily about acquiring a ridiculous amount of tops, bottoms and accessories. Instead, it is about picking up articles of clothing that are reflective of one’s personality while staying practical. And because you don’t want to look too ordinary, you’ll want to add in just the right amount of trendy pieces that will give visual impact on your ensemble – a beaded top, distressed jeans or accessories that are suited for the season’s look. It is also wise to have pieces that can be mixed and matched to suit a particular occasion like a long day in the city, a relaxed weekend spent at the rest house or a night out with your friends. More importantly, as you give your wardrobe a revamp, keep in mind that trends always make for a good guide in picking out articles of clothing. However, fads may easily lead one to a sad, sad fashion statement called overkill.

Retail brand Vise Versa takes on a dynamic look inspired by Indian, Mexican, Spanish and African elements. Proprietor and creative director Rina Go says, "This collection’s theme is about an epic of ethnic voyage. It is a melting pot of cultures from exotic destinations in various parts of the world." Intricately printed skirts, tie-dyed tops and beaded tanks give one a glimpse into Asia’s rich heritage, quaint little villages and its folklore. Fabrics remain faithful to batiks and native vibrant prints bringing Caribbean spice to the collection. "When choosing an inspiration, I have no boundaries. My inspiration can be a color, artist, country, era or anything at all that catches my eye," says Rina.

Reminiscent of Sahara nights and African wildlife, other pieces from the collection play up basic blacks in cuts that are perfect for layering. Accessories also play a vital role in defining the Vise Versa collection. It brings to the fore an innovative approach in putting together various material such as straw, beads and other ethnic wares to create pieces that showcase distinct tribal workmanship. "When we were putting together the collection, we were keen on highlighting the craftsmanship of each piece. Its color, texture and print," explains Rina.

Influenced by the old Mexican and Spanish culture, the bolero in rich velvets are touched up with frisky and feminine details like crocheted patterns, fringes, silk ribbons and puffed sleeves. Lingerie tops and printed scarves bring to the collection the Romantic feel of centuries old India. "The collection is really all about details," adds Rina. Picking out dominant details from each inspiration, Vise Versa focuses on elements that take you from one dream destination to another.

For this particular collection, Vise Versa also gets into the playful mood as it utilizes a wider color palette. Rina shares, "In the fashion business, it is important to be able to trend six month ahead. I forecast my fabric a year in advance since I do two season changes instead of four." Now onto her 16th year in the industry, she recalls, "In the beginning, I’d have winter colors in the summer. Jackets during the warm months."

This year, Vise Versa’s cropped jackets, tailored for the modern and no-nonsense individual, come in refreshing hues like mint green, sky blue and yellow. Match it with a pair of distressed jeans or a bright printed skirt and you’re all set to lounge around all weekend long. Wear them over a basic top and tailor bottoms and you’ll have a classic ensemble touched up with just the right amount of attitude. Put on a sexy top or printed dress and pair them with this jacket just in case you catch the cold evening breeze while on at night out with pals.

Indeed, Vise Versa’s latest collection offers boundless possibilities in wardrobe building. Popular for its tailored cuts and clean lines, Vise Versa continues to combine trendy pieces with classic ones resulting to an ensemble that is both timely and practical. Rina concludes, "The main principle behind the brand is to be able to build a wardrobe with pieces that you can mix and match. Vise, mix. Versa, match."