Tokyo Model Life Diary http://liv-lo.com/blog Just another WordPress site Wed, 16 May 2012 04:56:26 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 Tokyo Sky Tree and Le Clic Aveda Spa http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/tokyo-sky-tree-and-le-clic-aveda-spa/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/tokyo-sky-tree-and-le-clic-aveda-spa/#comments Wed, 16 May 2012 04:56:26 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=1270 ... Read the Rest...]]> Tokyo Sky Tree, the newest eyesore and tourist destination at Oshiage in Sumida district, Tokyo. As the tallest tower in the world, Tokyo Sky Trees main feature is to broadcast television and radio signals to replace the outdated Tokyo Tower. This new tower also boasts and impressive observation deck with other attractions such as shops, restaurants, and spas.

While the tower is not open to the public until May 22 we got a special preview and tour of the tower along with a trip to check out the new Le Clic Aveda Spa. Looking up at the tower from the base is seriously impressive. Made completely of steel it felt like the tower is really a robot in disguise and would transform if need be.

Tickets from May 22 to July 10 are by advance reservation drawing. Day tickets will on sale from July 11. Check their website for more information: http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/


Nothing was open yet so on we went to Le Clic Aveda Spa to get our special spa treatment…

 

]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/tokyo-sky-tree-and-le-clic-aveda-spa/feed/ 0 Spring in Japan means Hanami in Yoyogi Park with Cherry Blossoms, Drinking, and Rockabillies http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/spring-in-japan-means-hanami-in-yoyogi-park-with-cherry-blossoms-drinking-and-rockabillies/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/spring-in-japan-means-hanami-in-yoyogi-park-with-cherry-blossoms-drinking-and-rockabillies/#comments Wed, 18 Apr 2012 03:20:01 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=1196 ... Read the Rest...]]> “Hanami” or “Sakura viewing” is a tradition in Japan where people gather under the Sakura trees to picnic, socialise, and drinking to their hearts content. Usually during the first two weeks of April, these beautiful yet fickle flowers blossom and fall away allowing only a minimum opportunity to celebrate the warmer “Spring like” weather that comes right before the rainy season. The Sakura trees can be seen all over every city and country side in Japan, but hanami happens in regulated to certain parks and and areas for crowd control. There are many places, but the hot spots to view the flowers in Tokyo are by the Nakameguro River, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Yoyogi Park.

I went with my friends to Yoyogi Park on a Sunday to experience the rambunctious version of Hanami. We spotted the the infamous Rockabillies at the entrance. The Rockabillies are a group of Japanese men and a few women who have been rock and rollin’ at the entrance to Yoyogi Park every Sunday for 20 years or more. If you have been to Yoyogi Park on a Sunday you may have been lucky to catch these leather wearing greasers breaking it down and having a good time.

Rockabillies and female rockabilly also known as a Pin-up:)

Once in the part there little-to-none reception due to the amount of phones searching for signal. Meet everyone at the entrance first or they will never find you inside.

There is perhaps no more readily identifiable symbol of Japan than the cherry blossom. The gorgeous white and pink blossoms brighten the landscape and make it look like a page out of a fairy tale.

We found our spot right not under a sakura tree, but right next to the center lake. Time to set up our picnic.

Yusuke, one of my best friends in Tokyo

Spread your tarp and set up. Our picnic caters more to the foreign palette.

The crowd starts to cheer as a man swims into the center lake. Like a pro, he heads straight to the fountain in the middle and poses joyfully for photos.

Although the parks are crowded with Hanami-goers everyone is happy and friendly especially after having a few drinks in them. Hanami’s deeper cultural significance lies in the joy of the transitory beauty of the sakura blossom. These flowers can still be seen during the second and third weeks of April, so try and plan your next trip to Japan during this festive season.

 

XOXO,

 

Liv


]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/spring-in-japan-means-hanami-in-yoyogi-park-with-cherry-blossoms-drinking-and-rockabillies/feed/ 0 Tokyo Runway Fashion Show S/S 2012 http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/tokyo-runway-fashion-show-ss-2012/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/tokyo-runway-fashion-show-ss-2012/#comments Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:10:16 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=1158 ... Read the Rest...]]> Tokyo Runway. The last S/S 2012 Girls Collection in Tokyo, Japan. If you are wondering what “Girls Collections” are they are a combined show of fashion, live music, and entertainers. Tokyo Girls Collection, Tokyo Runway, and Girls Award are whole day fashion concerts where  fashionistas can watch 20-30 different brand shows plus see some of their favorite artists live. A winning combination that regularly packs the main Yoyogi Gymnasium hall with over 10,000 screaming fans.

The line up starts from early morning when the models and artists are just arriving for rehearsal.

After stage rehearsal it is time for make up. Here is a behind the scenes look at the make up process that goes into getting ready for the big stage!

Enjoy, xx

The 100 meter long stage is a work out to strut in heels.

Backstage with bestie Melody Yoko Reilly!


Another hair and make up change for Roberto Cavalli 

Backstage in Roberto Cavalli

Congratulations Tokyo Runway on a successful event!

XOXO,

 

Liv Lo


]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/tokyo-runway-fashion-show-ss-2012/feed/ 0 Easyoga Yoga Wear Clothing Fit for Your Lifestyle http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/easyoga-yoga-wear-clothing-fit-for-your-lifestyle/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/easyoga-yoga-wear-clothing-fit-for-your-lifestyle/#comments Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:51:20 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=1055 ... Read the Rest...]]>

What inpires you? Music, Work, Food, Family? We all find inspiration differently. There is no golden answer to the question because the answer is often plural and/or ever changing. For me, a constant precense in my life has been my Yoga practice. My life up to this point has taken many turns and has changed a lot. Still, if I look over the last 7 years yoga has been a way to track how I have changed. Yoga has been a positive focus in my life to help me cope with my erratic lifestyle and career.

In 2007 I started shooting for a Taiwanese yoga brand called Easyoga. Easyoga was a local company when I became their spokes model but now, in their 10th year, they have expanded their stores in beyond Taipei to Shanghai, Hong Kong and Seoul. Easyoga’s great success has led them to expand into sportswear.

Check out Easyoga’s website www.easyoga.com and their facebook page www.facebook.com/easyoga for more information and how to order!!!!



I am wearing the LAVEDA line Free Flow Tank and Stream Capri

I am wearing the LAVEDA Accel Tank top and the LAVEDA Engage Capri bottoms

I am wearing the LAVEDA Frill Tank top and LAVEDA Rhythm Trim Pants

Yoga means “union of body and mind” so while you are exercising the physical body you are also exercising the mind. 

It takes perseverance and dedication to keep up in this world.

A health or emotional difficulty will affect your mind, body, and your practice.
Easyoga has supported my lifestyle. 

Why not challenge yourself to do something new and exciting? We can learn and experience something new everyday! Check back for model secrets to healthy and happy lifestyle, diet, and health with you all on this blog. Stay tuned for more:)

XOXO,

Liv Lo

]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/easyoga-yoga-wear-clothing-fit-for-your-lifestyle/feed/ 0 H&M Collection Report David Beckham Body Wear at H&M Japan http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/marni-at-hm-with-david-beckham-bodywear-br-spring-collection-report/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/marni-at-hm-with-david-beckham-bodywear-br-spring-collection-report/#comments Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:23:09 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=1013 ... Read the Rest...]]> I went to the H&M press room to preview the new Marni collaboration collection, but the towering billboards in the Shibuya flagship H&M store grabbed my attention. If you are a footie/Beckham/Posh fan like me you will get caught up with the new Beckham Body Wear. The “David Beckham” label, not superb, but definitely a label I would rather see than “Fruit of the Loom”. The body wear line offers standard boxers, boxer briefs, tank tops, and long under wear in the standard white, grey, and black. Check out the full collection here

The S/S 2012 H&M collection really caught my eye. I couldn’t help but grab up a few pairs of T-shirts, jeans, and flats to restock my personal basic collection. Shoppers should also be happy to know that H&M will be providing a wild assortment of bikinis as well as basic seamless undies in plenty of summery neon colors.
I got these lacy flats in all the candy colors!

Now I cannot wait for spring to come! Be sure to grab your favorite items from the Beckham collection out now.
XOXO,
Liv Lo
]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/marni-at-hm-with-david-beckham-bodywear-br-spring-collection-report/feed/ 0 Discover Malaysia is Truly Asia Kuala Lumpur with Elephants, Durian, and Banana Leaf Rice http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/malaysia-truly-asia-day-trip-to-kuala-lumpur-with-elephants-durian-and-banana-leaf-rice/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/malaysia-truly-asia-day-trip-to-kuala-lumpur-with-elephants-durian-and-banana-leaf-rice/#comments Sun, 05 Feb 2012 15:57:30 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=899 ... Read the Rest...]]> Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is not the top destination for Tokyoites. The beaches of Phuket or the party happening cities like Hong Kong or Taipei are the more popular destinations for weekend travelers. Still, if you have the chance to visit Malaysia you may find there is just as much fun to be had within KL itself.

As some of you may know I have been dating travel host and Malaysian heartthrob Henry Golding. While Tokyo and KL is a long distance to have a relationship my frequent trips have led me to discover some of the most intimate secrets about KL. This photo of Henry and I was taken by friend and photographer Anna Rina during out trip to Paris last year. Check Anna’s fun photographs on her site here

Let me introduce my saviour. Low cost airline AirAsia . Although this flight is stripped of comfort like televisions and blankets, influctuation, fuel surcharges, and last minute bookings do not apply to AirAsia airlines. At the moment they fly once per day on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday; however, a little bird told me that from March 2012 they will be flying to Haneda and from KL everyday!

Upon arriving in KL check yourself into Villa Samadhi. A retreat in the city that offers complete relaxation and pampering. Even if it is just for one night their quiet facility will put you at ease and their delicious food gives you reason not to leave for a drink or a bite.

While KL may not be the smartest place to shop, the local food and activities are one of a kind. Ever tried banana leaf rice? Traditionally a South Indian dish where curried sauces, fried fish, or chicken is served on a banana leaf along with sides of assorted vegetables, pickles, and papadum. Because this is an Indian dish remember to eat with your right hand and not your left. After the meal, fold the banana leaf towards you when you are finished to indicate that the meal was satisfying.

I prefer to eat my meal with a local pancake, roti canai.

Another local delicacy is durian. Famous for its’ pungent smell durian is a love it or hate it kind of fruit. I have never found fans for durian quite like Malaysians. Honestly, have you ever seen an all-you-can-eat fruit buffet, much less a durian buffet? Durian is a guilty pleasure kind of dessert many people eat as a family or group due to the unmistakable odor that lurks on your breath and hands. As I learned, there are many grades to durian which vary in creaminess and sweetness. The top of these is Musan King which I am now a BIG fan of. Next time you smell durian lurking around try it, you just might like it!

Another suggested funtivity that is not too far from Kuala Lumpur Pusat Elephant Conservation. This is an elephant centre that locates and then translocates problem elephants from areas where their habitats are  being encroached on by plantations. The elephants have been saved from dangers in the wild and taken care of in this sanctuary by kind trainers. It is a special, one of a kind experience to be able to view elephants up close at Pusat. If you are going to visit it is better to call before and reserve a spot with the trainers so that you can have up close and personal time with the baby elephants. On the days where the water is calm enough visitors are able to take a trip down to the river to wash the elephants. Even though they were babies, I was a little frightened to be so close to elephants. The babies are harmless and love to be pet behind the ears and fed sugarcane.
If you are in the mood for some Indian culture the Batu Caves are only a short distance outside of KL city. The distinctive Hindu Murugan statue stands in the main square. Behind the statue is a series of 272 steps leading up to the limestone caves. Inside the furthest cave is the main temple. A focal point for the yearly Thaipusam festival pilgrimage. While visiting be sure to you do not bring food lest you become prey to one of the million macaques.

 

I hope this blog inspires you to take a trip to a new destination. If there is time to extend your trip try hopping to one of the near by islands. Beautiful Lang Kawi is only a 30 minute AirAsia airplane ride away!
Love Always,
Liv Lo
]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/malaysia-truly-asia-day-trip-to-kuala-lumpur-with-elephants-durian-and-banana-leaf-rice/feed/ 0 Moussy and Me S/S 2012 Collection Report on Japanese Fashion Brands http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/moussy-and-me-ss-2012collection-report-on-japanese-fashion-brands/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/moussy-and-me-ss-2012collection-report-on-japanese-fashion-brands/#comments Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:56:10 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=845 ... Read the Rest...]]> Much like Edwin jeans are to the U.S., MOUSSY’S rock influenced vintage style jeans are a signature brand for women in Japan. Moussy campaigns, often shot by Terry Richardson, are sexy, edgy, and reflect Moussy’s image of “American inspired Japanese casual style”. The leading brand of Baroque Limited Japan since 2000, Moussy  has continued to develop its brand portfolio by successfully launching new brands such as Black by Moussy, AZUL by Moussy and a new favorite of mine Underbar by Moussy. The success of the original Moussy pop-up-store in NYC during 2011 Fashion’s Night Out confirms that Moussy is also an American fashion favorite and a brand that is here to stay.

As usual, I went to S/S 2012 pre-sale exhibition to stock up on Moussy goods. Sticking true to their rocker-inspired style the show room was stocked with distressed skinny and vintage-washed wide-legged jeans. I picked up a pair of overall bellbottom denims from the picture below. I will wear this style on the runway for K.I.S.S (Korean International Style Show) supported by Girl’s Award on February 26th! A three-day music and fashion event that is the first of it’s kind to be held at Yoyogi Daiikukan Stadium. For more information on this please check the K.I.S.S website!

I snatched up this net dress in red…

and both these pair of boots. The open middle leather motorcycle boots are easily coordinated and sure to be heavily rotated item in my closet this Spring.

I have been a hardcore Moussy fan ever since shooting for their campaign in 2008.

I met press representative Hanako Suga at that time and have remained good friends ever since. I love you!

XOXO,

 

Liv Lo

 

]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/moussy-and-me-ss-2012collection-report-on-japanese-fashion-brands/feed/ 0 Grand Sumo Wrestling in Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo Japan http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/grand-sumo-wrestling-in-ryogoku-kokugikan-tokyo-japan/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/grand-sumo-wrestling-in-ryogoku-kokugikan-tokyo-japan/#comments Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:57:16 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=796 ... Read the Rest...]]> Everyone has seen the enormous sumos wrestling in the arena on television, but few have had the opportnity to witness a live match for themselves. Sumo is one of Japan’s national sports where many traditions and rituals are still withheld. The rules are simple, the matches are fast. The wrestler who first touches the ground with anything besides the soles of his feet, or who leaves the ring before his opponent, loses. Weight is essential for sumo as there is no weight class. Sumo’s wrestle against another sumo of their same division or level.

Six tournaments are held every year, each one lasting 15 days. Three of the tournaments are held in Tokyo (January, May, September), and one each in Osaka (March), Nagoya (July) and Fukuoka(November). The sumo official website is available in both Japanese and English.

Although I have lived in Japan for four years I was only lucky enough to have the time to make it to a match in the Ryogoku Kokugikan on January 12, 2012. Grand Sumo begins early from around 9:00 and goes till around 18:00. Our group skipped the early morning preliminary bouts to catch the med-high level Juryo division bouts around 15:00. By that time the cheaper free seating area were all sold out as was the TV camera angle. (The ideal angle to sit is the front or camera angle, so you don’t get butts or just the referee’s backside). Still, we managed to score box tickets for around 11,300¥ per person in East A side which is the second “most ideal spot”. Not bad seats considering we arrived only minutes before without reservations.

Of course Japan’s hero Asashoryu won the tournament. The final day of sumo on 1/22/2012 is already sold out so try and make it for the next round in May in Tokyo.
XOXO,
Liv Lo
]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/grand-sumo-wrestling-in-ryogoku-kokugikan-tokyo-japan/feed/ 0 Fashion Favorites: Fluorescent Yellow Cambridge Satchel http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/favorites-fluorescent-yellow-cambridge-satchel/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/favorites-fluorescent-yellow-cambridge-satchel/#comments Thu, 12 Jan 2012 04:41:57 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=770 ... Read the Rest...]]> I discovered this bag in a Fashionista.com article ”Cambridge Satchel Company: The Inspiring Story Behind Fashion Month’s Most Affordable ‘It-Bag’.” Like a true entrepreneur the creator and founder, Julie Deane, started the company without any previous design experience. Besides wanting to pay for her daughters education she wanted to create a satchel according to the classic British design. Since every bag is hand made the fluorescent series was produced on request by a customer. The future sure looks bright for a company with plans to collaborate with Comme des Garcons, ASOS and Urban Outfitters (UK).

For me, the nonconformist color combined with an embossment is a winning combination. Not only is the colour eye-catching, but a friend recognized me from the monogram.

 

You can order your own Cambridge Satchel online and have it delivered to your door. I do love surprise gifts from myself at my doorstep.

 

I am wearing

Laguna Moon shirt

H&M necklace

Decious sweatpants

TopShop ankle boots

XOXO,

 

Liv Lo

 

 

]]> http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/favorites-fluorescent-yellow-cambridge-satchel/feed/ 0 “Travel for a Living” Interview Article in Glamorous Magazine Japan http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/travel-for-a-living-interview-article-in-glamorous-magazine-japan/ http://liv-lo.com/blog/2012/travel-for-a-living-interview-article-in-glamorous-magazine-japan/#comments Wed, 11 Jan 2012 02:55:21 +0000 Liv Lo http://liv-lo.com/blog/?p=755 ... Read the Rest...]]> Hello Everyone,

Happy New Year! I have been away from blogging for a bit because I have been traveling for the last 3 weeks. While it is great fun to travel, it is not always as fun to live out of a suitcase. Glamorous Magazine Japan followed me while I was away. In the article I mention some of my friends and influences like Angela Reynolds,  Mai Sassy Girl, and Melody Yoko Reilly.

 

Thank you Glamorous for mentioning my original blog in the article. It has only been three months since I have started blogging on my homepage and I have already over 1,000 hits a day! My updates are linked to

Twitter: livvlo

Facebook: www.facebook.com/livlofanpage

If you do not follow me on these social media sites please come back regularly for updates from a Tokyo Model Life Diary:)

 

XOXO,

 

Liv Lo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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