How I approach Business

I recently listened to the advice of Martha Stewart from her audio book, Martha's Rules, read by Martha herself. Though her advice is derived from common sense, you'd be surprised to hear that many entrepreneurs don't seem to subscribe to any. It is packed with details about her own business as well as examples of other successful entrepreneurs. It's reassuring to learn that her "rules" in business reinforces my own ideas about it.

Some of her advice:
Never start a business on debt: I never understood why anyone should take out a huge debt load to start a venture they have no expensive in. And it's unrealistic to think that a bank will take you seriously. If you can't come up with the amount needed, it's time to rethink the approach.

Expending too fast, too soon is never good: Maybe some businesses could take the leap, but would you want to risk all the hard work you invested to start, only to lose it all? Make sure you are expending on stable ground, and taht the expension is sustainable.

Being frugal is necessary:It doesn't mean your business has to look cheap, it just means spending money in the most needed areas. I could never understand the people who, when they first start out, the top of their list is printing expensive stationary and buying luxurious office furniture when their money could have been invested in improving the product or service itself.

When I get a new retailer on board, they are not simply a buyer, they become a partner in a sense. If they are not doing well, the likeliness of my product doing well at their shop is minimal. I like to find out what advertising mediums they use and discuss how we can make things better, whether it is something they must do, or something I can do. I make sure that my product will allow them to make a reasonable profit margin (sometime more than decent when you compare to other wholesalers). If the retailers, who is my source of distribution, can not survive, I can't expect to do well for myself either.

If you don't change, you die.
The advice of Martha, I think this can apply to many areas. Retailers must understand that once they are set up, it does not mean they are set up for life either. They must continue to work on how they can improve their business and attract new customers. Change is needed in order to grow.

The look says, I'm staying in, but I might step out for some milk

(Both AF Vandevorst, FW 2006)

Paris fashion week just kicking off. Found these two sweaters (only) from AF Vandevirst, which I love.

Moschino Knitted Picks

(Both Moschino FW 2006)

The winter Olympics came to a close this weekend, as well as Milan Fashion Week. I am still waiting to see photos from Miu Miu, Stlye.com is a bit slow this year? Anyways, while watching the closing ceremonies, I found out that Moschino was the mastermind behind those memorable costumesfor the sign holders. Moschino is always a favorite with me for their innovative quirkiness. Here are my knitted picks from the recent Fall 2006 collection. The sweater from the right is quite interesting. It features a peplum, slight bell sleeves and the lovely frog buttons.

Killing me softly...

(Featured in American Vogue, March 2006)

I restrain myself from buying magazines unless I feel there is a use for me in what I do. This March 2006 issue was justified by the article above. Knitwear designer, Alexander Wang and Subversive jeweler have collaborated to create one of a kind knitted and jeweled items. Isn't this gorgeous? But my heart stops when I see the price tag, $1.200 USD. Is it handknit though? It could be. I'm actually working on a vest pattern similar tot this, a slightly lower V-beck and no cables. Stay tuned.

Mad hatters of Burberry

(Both Burberry Prorsum, FW 2006)

So many variations of knitted caps at Burberry's Fall 2006! Pretty much confirms that a knitted cap is a must-have this coming Fall, but you can get ahead of the crowd and make your own. The one in the left photo, choose a yarn that is aran or chunky weight: knit in 2x2 rib from the bottom up, start decreasing after 5 or 6 inches, thread yarn through remaining stitches and apply pom pom. The one in the right photo, choose a yarn in a dk weight that drapes well (like Fable Handknit, Pure Baby Alpaca will work perfectly): start from the middle (trust me), knit in 1x1 rib for 2 to 3 inches, make decreases, finish off thread yarn through remaining stitches. Then, pick up stitches from the bottom of the cap, make increases like you would when you make ruffles. Bind off, and voila! Of course my instructions are very rough, you will have to experiment a bit.

5 Foodie Challenge

I got tagged by MIss V for the 5 Foodie Challenge. My food choices are already very healthy, but there are some habits that could be improved upon.

1. Stop consuming too much bread at one sitting. I go to this Chinese/Japanese bakery where you get 2 for 1, and if you buy 6 it's tax free. I've had times where I ended up eating 3 before I even got home.

2. I already take supplements, but sometimes I forget. When I am out of town, it really throws off the routine, so I will be consists even when I am away. Going to KL really threw me off and I am still trying to get back to routine now!

3. I need to get back to drinking more water. I get lazy abut that when I am working. Also, drinking more soy, I have to make up for not drinking milk.

4. I will try to e more decisive about what to eat when I am at home. I am rather lucky because living at home, my mom is really consistent about only buying healthy foods.

5. When eating out will try new foods instead of sticking to what I normally order. I would even like to try more ethnic foods. I don't eat out very often. I am mostly vegetarian, and finding recurrent that serve vegetarian dishes is hard.

My turn to tag: Natalie, Amanda (if you can get yourself to the internet!) and Yahaira.

Sweet Home- Markham

I have a fantastic find to tell you about. It's a yarn shop called Sweet Home (3255 Hwy 7 E., Unit 125, First Markham Place, Markham). They specialize in Japanese imports from yarn, to needles, to book and magazine! Yes! Finally a place to get Japanese knitting books! And Teresa, the kind owner, will special order any book if she doesn't already have it. And here another thing, she's carrying Fable Handknit, starting from today! Store hours: Mon-Sat 12-7pm, Closed Sunday.

Alpine Ski inspiration at d&g

(Left, superchic snow jockeys at d&g FW 2006, Right, do you see the knitted leggings? A guy once suggested to me that I designed knitted pants for his snowboarding gear. I laughed at the idea, was I wrong to do so?)

If it's not snowing here in Toronto, maybe it's because it was d&g that was hogging all the winter action. They showed collection that was mostly knits- there were knits in just about every outfit (not to mention that everything was in natural white, simply gorgeous). If you don't knit now, you might want to, come this Fall. If anything brings the craft to a higher level, it could be these chaps. Thank you, Dolce and Gabana!

Oh, and a second note, if you want to get this look (the neck-head thing), you want to knit this, the Aspen Neck Cowl.

S'il vous plait, Madame, I want some more!

(Left, Prada FW 2006, the boyfriend sweater worn as a dress look, a bit short, perhaps if you are like Carrie Bradshaw. Right, Pucci FW 2006, not for shrinking violet! But if you knit, you can pick your own color. )

Look, look! More knitted dresses. This time from Milan! We can just about say this is the must have item of next Fall. What interesting is how many inaudible styles there are. I tell you all in confidence again, pulling off a dress like this is effortless.

In Fable news, the Classic Scarf pattern is available for free on the Fable Handknit website. Forgive me it took so long.

Because it's not what you wear, it's HOW you wear it

(Left: Rocking the layered look, so comfy, Right: What a modern day Holly Golightly might wear. I want that belt! Both NY Fashion Week attendees.)

I love looking at street style photos. Everyone who makes it into these publications are so individual in how to choose to put together an outfit. It just goes to proves taht style is a frame of mind, not how much you spent. You can check out more street style via Style.com.

Supersize your cardigan from the waist down.

(Left: Tuleh, FW 2006, Right: Hermes, FW 2005)

Ooh, this morning I just had the craving for an extra-long caridigan. It's such a versitile item, can be worn as a dress (with a belt) or layer over a pencil skirt, or cashmere leggings (where can I snag a pair?).

Happy Friday, everyone! This week seems to have flown by. I've been knitting while listening to knit-related podcasts. Last weekend, I decided that I have to be at the trade show in Indiana this summer. I haven't been focusing much on sales lately, and I should be. I've be been working on much needed pattern designs. Going to trade show should make up for lack of sakes right now, and hopefully, really get Fable Handknit into many US stores. I have to start thinking about display design soon. New colors have been finalized, estimated arrival is some time in April!

Fashion's Bookish Moment

(Left: Vena Cava, Right: Michael Kors, yet another sweater dress, both FW 2006)

I've said it before, and it's shown up again on runway looks for Fall 2006. We're seeing more "violently" prepppy looks. Are we aspiring for another age of enlightenment? Get out your cable knit sweater, you'll be ahead of the crowd. Meanwhile, whip up a sweater dress, any fitted sweater pattern can be altered to make one, just knit it extra long and taper. You can't go wrong with a sweater dress.

Models' Own

(Both photos taken from Style.com, backstage at NY Fashion Week)

Looking at designer clothes on the runway is fun and all, but I love seeing what models are wearing when they're off duty. The one on the left, the sweaters have runs in it, I love that. Is it from Dior?

Knitted Caps go Glam

(Knitted caps at Ralph Lauren and Wunderkind, FW 2006)

People often complain that they are not "hat people". But I think everyone can wear hats, it's a matter of choosing the right shape and size and how you style your hair. When a hat is too tight, then that looks terrible. I find that most ready made hats are too small. Knitting your own is not as hard as it looks. It's actually quite simple and can be a quick weekend project.

Andre Leon Tally said at the Marc Jacobs show, "Today, elegance has to be roughed up". Knited caps are suddenly looking glamorous.

More knitted dresses (the better to keep you warm)

(Both Malo, FW 2006)

Malo is famous for it cashmere line. I've never been a fan, but they've really worked up a desirable line. Knitted dresses are so easy to wear, it makes anyone look immediately sophisticated with nearly no effort. I have one that I bought years ago, and I get like a zillion compliments when I wear it.

MJ update: Check out the video at Style.com. I still think this is the best show from New York fashion week. A lot of MJ fans have said that they didn't like this collection. I think this is one of MJ's most important shows. He's going beyond playing it safe and moving forward. People have grew to only know him as a cutesy, pretty fluff designer, he's far more complex than that. There was such visual interest in every outfit, most people complained that it was overstyled. I think he gave a realistic winter collection. In winter, we do bundle up and layer on clothes. He offered a lot of options for keeping warm. Some shows which had the clean lady like thing going on was just boring and predictable in comparison. Days later and I can't get over how much I love this collection. Damm, he's even cooler than I thought.

Fable Pattern Preview

Ok, some designs finally got finished last week and I had them photographed last weekend. The patterns are still in editing. But here's a sneak peek! I gave the scarf to my chiropractor, and she loved, loved it. I love it because it's so classic. I wanted to design the ideal scarf, as well as one that was suitable for both men and women. Again, with the shurg, I designed the ideal shurg, something that you would find at Holt's or Barneys, but would have to pay so much for, but even better because the yarn used is superior to that of what's used in most ready to wear.

Warm up in knitted dresses

(TSE FW 2006, stay pretty and warm)

Brrr! It's so cold outside, viewing the TSE collection is such a comfort. This show was much overlooked, many claimed that the show was dull. Well, not all shows are meant to be entertaining. TSE is all about being wearable. Tess Giberson was appointed as creative director for this collection. I've been following her career since her first appearance in Vogue. TSE is famous for cashmere and the line was full of knits, of course. I particularly loved the knitted dresses, looking pretty and staying warm never looked easier.

Love, Love MJ

(Get out your double-pointed needles, we like strappy pumps, but want to stay toasty, knit up a pair of baby alpaca socka. Both photos: Marc Jacobs FW 2006)

Duh, like no doubt, my loyal readers already know that I'm a huge MJ fan. If there were ever a moment that I were in the pressence of MJ, I would fall to his feet and ask for his blessing. Ok, not a good idea, that would do no good for me and freak him out. He's the Woody Allen of fashion, self-concious and parnoid, but totally genius. I wouldn't intentionally do things to make him feel uncomforatble.

Fall 2006 by Marc Jacobs, I love it. The total look is not for everyone, perhaps mainly for his demographic, his loyal following who totally gets him. But I think everyone can appreciate that his work is always wearble and vraiment cool. His girl gone vegabond is cool, it refers back to his grounge days. He's always been about ease, comfort and absolute chic. As usual, he's won me over, but what he does is still always a surprise.

Knitters take notice, this collection was full of knitwear. Looks you can easily do yourself. Lots of knitted accessories to get ideas from.

This post is a part of The State of the Fashion Union blogging carnival. It's a countdown to New York Fashion Week, and you can find out more about this event through Almost Girl or FashionTribes.

Main St Yarns- Milton

Happy to announce that another retailer is carrying the Fable line. Main St Yarns (15 Martin St, Milton) is fairly new, but has that old world touch. Beautiful wood shelving throughout the store and cozy chairs for you sit lounge on while flipping through pattern books. Main St Yarn is just on the corner of Main St and Martin, tucked in the shopping plaza where you could get your groceries and yarn stash.

New York Crafty

When all the fashion week is said and done, head to the craft sores with fresh inspiration in mind. Take a minute with me and tour some of New York crafty hot spots.



(Left: crochet and stone necklace from Marni SS 2005, you can totally make this yourself. Both photos from Style.com)

Manhattan has got to be one of the most knit-addicted cities, because the island houses over 12 knitting destinations! Knitting classes are availible at yarn shops. If you're not sure where to begin, they can set you up.

Purl (137 Sullivan St.)
Head over to Prince and Sullivan Street and look for the shop painted in pastel green. That's Purl. This has to be one of the most beautiful yarn shops I've ever visited. The owner, Joelle Hoverson is also the author of Last Minute Knitted Gifts, an indicator of her good taste and what sorts of things you'll find in her shop. The staff are really friendly and helpful, they can help you get started on a project.

Habu Textiles (135 West 29th St.)
This shop is really different from what you normally see. They import yarns from their Japan shop, Avril. All the yarns are made from natural fibers and often left undyed. It's really quite beautiful in the most naturalistic way. Very chic, very wabisabi.

Knit New York (307 East 14th St.)
When knitting in Central Park isn;t an option because it's cold out, head to Knit New York for a coffee and a skein. A cafe and yarn shop, city knitters come here to meet. Friday night is their Men's knitting night! I think what they really ought to have a is a singles night!

Brooklyn General (135 Union St.)
If you're going to Brooklyn, don't miss out on Brooklyn General (don't you love the name?). I've never been, but I sure wish I had! Mainly a yarn store, but you'll also find other things to complete crafty projects.

If you're into sewing, you should head to the Garment District, that's 25th Street to 40th, Fifth Avenue to Ninth Avenue. You'll find all the materials you could possibly need to make clothing, accessories, jewelry and home decor items.

Paaron Fabrics (855 Lexington Ave. and 206 W. 40th). They stock leftovers from New York designers. Fabrics are often labeled from where it came from, so you could end up with a piece of what Alice Roi used in a collection or something from a premium Italian mill. There is a section of both locations where the goods are discounted at 50 percent off! I promise you will find something that you will just have to take home, and you'll find it well priced, if not a bargain.

B&J Fabrics (525 Seventh Ave., 2nd Floor) This is the best of the best, make that the most breathtaking, you'll find in all of New York. You pay the price for that, mind you. But you'll find the a leftover of what Oscar De La Renta uses. If you're getting a dress made for a wedding or gala, you'll find what you want here.

Mokuba (55 West 39th Street) This is ribbon heaven. All the ribbon comr from Japan and they come in every shape, color and form imaginable. If you're looking for a particular trim to match a fabric, it's likely you'll find it here.

Daytonee Trimmings (251 W. 39th St.) All kinds of ribbons, trims and zippers, it's priced reasonably.

These are my personal favorites, if you have any New Yoek picjs, leave a comment and tell us about them!

This post is a part of The State of the Fashion Union blogging carnival. It's a countdown to New York Fashion Week, and you can find out more about this event through Almost Girl or FashionTribes.

Designer DIY

Designers are having a crafty moment. You can see it in those supercute Chanel "quilted bags"and crochet bags from Savatore Ferregamo. Fusing traditional craft and high fashion has never looked cooler- crafting has gone designer!



(Left: Savatore Ferregamo, right: Armani, both SS 2006)

If you've ever wanted a Michael Kors signature cable knit sweater, but couldn't fork over the cash, you can always knit your own. What am I talking about? Vogue Knitting, a leading knitting magazine has designer sweater patterns in every issue (an advantage is also being able to adjusting the size and choosing the yarn color to your liking). Other designers that have been included are Anna Sui, Cynthia Rowley, Pierrot and Twinkle. Pierrot, not yet a household name, but should be in every New York fashionista's black book, his work has been worn by the like of Sarah Jessica Parker on Sex and the City. Twinkle, also an emerging talent out of New York, started out in creating colorful chunky cover ups that got the attention of strangers and fashion editors alike. Since setting up her business, her line has extended into dresses and jewelry.

So take a break from shopping and channel your inner crafty. Think about making something that's all your own, or at least with some designer guidance.

This post is a part of The State of the Fashion Union blogging carnival. It's a countdown to New York Fashion Week, and you can find out more about this event through Almost Girl or FashionTribes.