Bravo

This year's Outstanding Achievement honour at the British Fashion Awards tomorrow night will be given in the name of Alexander McQueen.  And in my opinion, no one deserves it better.
When Michael Jackson died, awards were given in his name and countless dedications were made.  Michael Jackson was the king of the pop world.  Alexander McQueen was the rebellious, outlandish king of fashion and should not be forgotten about.  It can be argued in his short life, he did as much for British fashion as Jackson did for music over his entire career.
At the awards tomorrow night, a film will be presented, directed by Nick Knight, featuring all McQueen's iconic works.

Not a Chance.

It's not often that I oppose Vogue, but this time, I think they are really totally wrong.  Today I read online that in these minus temperature, snowy conditions, that it would be a really good idea that we all brave the cold and go out with bare legs. Have they actually gone insane?  I'm still cold with three pairs of tights on!
One of their alternative suggestions are fur snoods, hats, gloves and ear muffs.  How are they meant to prevent you from the cold when you still have nothing left on your legs?  They did make a valid point in wearing a long-ish skirt with knee high furry boots but still, an extra layer of tights or knee high socks should never be turned down in -3 weather.
What made me laugh was the fact that if you just do it and put a smile on your face, it somehow won't even seem to matter.  When you fall down in the snow with your bare legs, let me see if you are still smiling.

My Decade.

Being a 90s kid, you take for granted the times that you lived in.  A lecture today, gave me more than I have ever known about the decade that I was born in and not just take it for granted as a time that nothing exciting happend.  Whenever I think about the twentieth century, the 90s never seems to hit me as anything major.  It is always the 20s, 50s and 80s that always stick in my mind as influential times.  But the 90s had everything to give and even more.

Grunge was a huge part of the time.  Even Colin McDowell has written a Fashion Moment on it.  Alexander McQueen was the inventer of bumsters, a look that is still very popular with about 60% of the male population aged between 12-22.

It was the era of Britpop.  Pulp.  Is there anymore needed there?  Common People and Disco 2000 are two of the most amazing songs ever.

It wasn't just a decade with one trend happening unlike the times that had gone before.  Sportswear, tracksuits, minimalsim, camoflauge.  It was all happening in the 90s. 

I am very very proud to have been born in the 90s.  The only thing I regret is that I was only 7 by the time it was over.

And then the loves.

One of my favourite parts of winter is that you can practically go out dressed up as fool, as long as you look cosy.  Bobble hats, chunky scarfs, oversized coats, thick tights and boots.  You basically look like you are about to burst in a bubble of wool.
Even though you know it's freezing outside, the excitement is in layering up with as many winter accessories that you can think of.  My favourite at the minute seem to be earmuffs.  Cute and logical, they just make sense.
Walking to a Christmas market in all your new winter gear just has some satisfaction that stands with me.  You get ready with friends and then go out in minus temperatures but it doesn't matter because you are all wrapped up with a pork bap in hand or a glass of mulled wine.  It's your choice with that one.
Colour isn't even an issue.  A bright orange hat, pea green coat and bilberry tights will work but I would advice this in the months from October to January.
It's less than a month till Christmas now and the excitement hasn't worn off in the slightest but I think now I appreciate the smaller things aswell.  The family time, time with loved ones, seeing a smile on someone's face when they like the present you get them.  This is probably one of the best times of year.

Hates

A rant that I would like to get off my infected chest is when girls decide it is a good idea to wear leggings that have been worn and washed so much, that you can actually see their arse.  The worse thing about it is that they aren't wearing pants. Shocking.
The other thing I have against this is when girls wear leggings as trousers and just a t-shirt.  It really isn't a flattering look for even the skinniest of girls.  If you are going to rock the faded, see through leggings look, at least wear a longer top or a dress and make sure you are wearing underwear.  In my opinion that is pretty sound advice.
Don't walk around thinking you look good when actually you look common and tacky.

The Big Gossip

The rumours on the grapevine is that Sex and the City might, JUST might release a third film.  If this true, then I will be at Leicester Square the second they have a London premiere date.

The two SATC films that have gone already have been amazing.  Me and my friends always like to pick out outfits which we want to wear for ourselves.  Patricia Fields is a genius and that show would not have been the same without her.  Her magic translated even better onto the big screen when the first film came out.

I was never a fan of the show until I saw the first film which immediately got me hooked and I used to watch Comedy Central every Thursday night to catch up on what I had been missing out on all these years.

Carrie is my favourite character in terms of fashion but Samantha is unbeatable in terms of legendary status.  I would love to do the some of the things she comes out with.
So if this film does come out, and according to Kristen Davis, all four actresses would be onboard, it would definetely be something to look forward to.

Landed

The big news of today is that the Lanvin collection for H&M has gone on sale and by now, the Regent Street store probably looks a bit more bare and lot more messed up than it did just before 9 o'clock this morning.
The first person in the queue had been there nearly 12 hours in advance, at quarter to 9 last night.  That is dedication considering it's bloody freezing outside.  Even I couldn't do that and I consider myself dedicated.
Alber Elbaz must be very proud of himself.

TX Maxx Max Out.

Why do TX Maxx think it's fashion to have what seems like hundreds of Michael Jackson t-shirts? Every other shirt has Micheal's holding crotch, tiptoed dance move plastered on it.  The actual t-shirt looks identical to the Ramones band t-shirt with the frayed sleeve edges and even the grey colour is the same.
Don't get me wrong, Jackson was and always will be a legend but there is something uncool about having his face on your clothes as opposed to the Ramones or Rolling Stones.
But the other part of this rant is about the people who wear these t-shirts.  I personally don't own a Ramones or Rolling Stones top but I do love the Stones logo.  I like some of their songs but I wouldn't call them an all time favourite.  Therefore the reason I don't own one.  I hate the girls that wear these tops and think that other people must think that they are so into their music when actually they don't know anything about them and have only heard one song, which will be the songs everyone knows.
These are the girls that secretly listen to Britney Spears and Westlife in their bedrooms when their boyfriends aren't around.  If you wanna make a fashion statement, do one that you actually believe in.

Style Icon

Alexa Cheung, Emma Watson, Georgia May Jagger, Lily Cole, Tilda Swinton and Stella McCartney.  Who wins?

These names, along with others are suggested nominees for the newest category at the British Fashion Awards, named British Style Award.

First off. Tilda Swinton? Are you joking? Quirky definetely but not worthy of a style award.  I think Alexa Cheung is a bit dated now. The last two years she has been this amazing innovator of fashion but I think there are now so much more fresher faces with cooler, hipper styles.
Georgia May, relatively new onto the celeb circuit could be a winner but I think my vote would have to go to Emma Watson.  I think over this past year, she has grown into her style and well on her way to becoming a fashion icon.  She can mix red carpet glamour to understated, simple chic just walking on the streets of London.
To put your vote in for British Style Award choice go to http://www.britishfashionawards.com/britishstyle



Tilda Swinton

It's Magic

Last night at the London premiere of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, it was Emma Watson that stole the show.  I'm a huge obsessed fan with Daniel Radcliffe but Emma aka Hermoine was the real star.  She looked absolutely gorgeous.

When I first saw the images of her new pixie cut, I wasn't too sure about it.  But now I see that it shows off her stunning facial features such as her cat-like eyes and radiating smile.  It likes a ugly duckling story.  In the first Potter film, she had this huge bush of hair and from that to this, is a hair transformation.  I feel in a way that I have almost grown up alongside her, developing our own fashion style.

For the event in Leicester Square, she wore a black lace and feather cocktail dress by Rafael Lopez and simple understated earrings and ring by Solange Azagury-Partridge.

Picture - http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1329043/Harry-Potter-And-The-Deathly-Hallows-Emma-Watson-goes-casual-premiere-afterparty.html

Camden Goes 50's

When in Camden, I couldn't help but notice a 1950's vibe going on.  Black halter dresses, synched in at the waist, knee length and covered in polka dots seemed to be the new Camden style.  Although all in black, there was something cheerful and playful about them.  I could just imagine a typical Camden girl, tattoos and piercings galore wearing one of these dresses with think, black vintage boots walking into a pub and ordering a Jack Daniels and coke.

I always admire Camden and their fashion trends.  It just seems like the opposite of what everyone else is doing.  I have already said how much I'm in love with Camden so I don't think there is any need to spill my heart out all over again.

Oh Please.

I read today that Robert Pattinson may or may not have been approached to be the new face of Burberry.  In my opinion, Burberry could do a lot better and also be a little bit more original.
Emma Watson, Pattinson's Harry Potter co-star was the face of Burberry.  I know there is all the hype about the new film coming but does the label really have to go Potter crazy too?  I think Pattinson is an obvious choice.  Yes he evokes a typical, Burberry wearing, British male but there are so many unrecognisable faces that could fill in the slot as good as or maybe even better than him.
Personally I'm not a Twilight fan and I don't see the obsession with the film or the actors.   I feel that if the a deal was signed, then Burberry would become very predictable on who they would get to model their clothes.  I am actually a little suprised that Pattinson had already been selected and used in their campaigns before.
What I do respect Pattinson for is that he hasn't jumped on board the celebrity wagon of promoting himself in any way he can unlike some celebrities of today.  According to what I have read, he turned down the offer to concentrate on his acting, calling himself an actor rather than a model.  That i think is very respectable.

Fashion Art

Fashion is an art form.  Designers are the artists.  Like any painting, fashion raises questions, evokes emotion and creates changes in the way people live their lifes.  Every now and then we get something so fresh and innovative that it immediately creates responses whether they be negative or positive.
My response to footwear designer Chau Har Lee's is crazy positive.  She has created shoes that are visually stunning yet still wearable.  These shoes are truly works of art, but more like sculptures in their design.  This particular pair are showstoppers.  You would walk into any room and would cause the crowds to silence and stare at your feet.
Lee, who also designs footwear for luxury label Bally is not as well known as Jimmy Choo or Manolo Blahnik but I think there needs to be a change in this.  Her designs are inventive and something that no other is doing.  I would love to get my foot in the door with her shoes on any day.

Dear Julien, I Don't Like You.

Designer Julien Macdonald made a comment to Vogue.co.uk saying about what his idea of a perfect model would be like.  The essential components he described were "tall, sexy and have a dangerous personality".  He then went on to say, "You're not going to find that person waiting at a bus stop."  Bastard.
Kate Moss. Discovered in an airport.  Erin O'Connor.  Discovered at Birmingham Clothes Show.  Lily Cole in Soho with a chance meeting with Benjamin Hart, an English actor.  Christie Brinkley in a post office in Paris.  Yes it's in Paris but there can't be something more common that a post office!  Now all these women have earnt a hefty living for themselves with modelling whether they ever intended to or not.
You can find beauty anywhere, even a bus stop.  You can find it walking down the street, down the frozen section in the supermarket, even in the pub.  Julien Macdonald in my opinion, is too much up his own behind. 
Kate Moss isn't tall but is sexy and definetely has a dangerous personality.  Lily Cole may not have the dangerous personality but is tall and sexy.  Just goes to show Mr Macdonald that you are not always right.

Today's the Day

Today is the day that the Lanvin collection for H&M can be seen via video on the store's website.  True to Lanvin style, there are plenty of ruffles and elegant feminine silhouettes.  Thriller film "The Shining" seems to have been the main inspiration of the video.  The hotel rooms and corridors, the moody atmosphere and the creepy little girl twins or in this case, two models dressed in maid outfits.  The video seems to play out a few stories but the main feature seems to be the girl who rejects diamonds and flowers from her supposed lover presents to her because all she wants is Lanvin.  In the end, she recieves a purple and blue floral, tiered, and of course ruffled Lanvin dress.
Throughout the collection we can see a lot of trompe l'oeil making the eye dance.  Lace and ribbons seem to be the key to creating this illusion.  Alber Elbaz, who is briefly seen in the video, has definetely worked his magic on this collection.  It is true Lanin style but so attainable for the mass market that any women can walk in H&M on November 23rd and feel like a showstopper when she puts one of these pieces on.  Pieces featured include trendy t-shirts, dresses, skirts, coats, shoes, jewellery, gloves and sunglasses meaning that you can get a complete outfit with this collection.
The video can be seen from today at H&M's website - http://www.hm.com/gb/#/start/

Pictures taken from http://www.vogue.co.uk/

Get Some Clothes On

I have a real hate of girls who don't dress appropriately for the freezing cold weather outside and then complain about it non-stop.  I know I sound old and boring for an 18 year old but seriously it's true.  Yes love you have lovely legs but do they really need to be on show all the time when realistically, its Christmas next month.  Wearing a pair of shorts with long knee socks can look good on the right people but seriously, cover up!  Like my grandma would say, "You'll catch your death out there."  Winter isn't the "sexy season".  A pair of amazing tights look so much better than bare legs covered in goosebumps.
Another thing that annoys me is that these girls are wrapped up on top and exposed on the bottom.  A typical outfit will be a slouchy hat, chucky knit scarf and khaki parka with shorts and long woolen socks.  Its like two seasons splashed across one outfit.
So what is the solution?  Be half naked and don't complain about it to me when there's a blizzard outside or the better option, put some real clothes on!

Those Were The Days

On a rainy day autumn day, I thought to myself that I might get the old photos out.  I was bored and desperate.  Looking back to when you were a four year old kid living in the 90's with mummy dressing you, it wasn't the best of looks.  But damn sure it was fun and damn sure it was colourful.  Electric blue leopard print leggings, crazy patterned t-shirts and the little funky trainers that lit up on every step.  I also remember watching a video tape of me singing alone to my childhood favourites, Take That and wearing a pink polo shirt and dungarees with my natural peroxide blonde hair.
Other photos that I came across included fashions such as three quarter lengths denim jeans, dolly shoes, ponchos, baggy "Builder" jeans and Busted t-shirts.  I never use to be much of a fashion icon.  I use to think of myself as the a bit of a grunger wearing the two sizes too big jeans, oversizes t-shirts, trainers, no makeup and hair not attended to.
Even though I wouldn't be seen in any of these things now, these are the looks that get you to where you are today.  They create your own little fashion ugly ducking story.  The transformation is the most exciting part.  Although in 10 years I might look back on the photos of today and think, "What the hell am I wearing!"

I Heart New York.

One of my main ambitions in life is to visit NYC.  Fashion Week, Bloomingdales, Statue of Liberty, Central Park, SATC, Greenwich Village.  I want it all.  I've done Paris, but desperately want to go again.  I've done Milan.  But to be sucked into the New York scene for just a few days would be a dream come true.  I am doing a Fashion Moment on Edie Sedgewick and it has only made me obsessed with the city, (Edie Sedgewick is one of fashion idols).  I love London but New York is just the icing on the cake and in my opinion, the centre of the earth.  I would just park myself on a bench and watch the world go by.  Watch the bohemian girls in their baggy jeans, ugg boots and scarfs go and pick up their Starbucks and blueberry muffins - the business men rushing to Wall Street with their Armani suitcases on the subway - the yummy mummys pushing their prams with their Prada sunglasses firmly in place.  Watching Carrie Bradshaw and the girls in Sex and the City having lunch or shopping in Macy's just made me jealous.  So to end this fantasy blog, if anyone wants to buy me a plane ticket (first class if you're offering) then I would be very grateful.

Bye Bye Kate

The loving relationship that was Kate Moss and Topshop has now ended with the supermodel revealing her last full collection for the high street brand.
I think that Kate Moss was a positive thing for Topshop, although personally I never bought any of her pieces due to lack of funds.  Where I lived near Lincoln, Topshop was becoming less exciting, less original.  Topshop in Lincoln never had any of the "outside" designers in store so when we heard about the Kate Moss collection being local, it was needless to say an exciting moment.  It was a taste of London style yet posted all the way to Lincolnshire where fashion is not of any relevance. 
I remember a girl I knew practically running into Topshop when the collection was first in store and spending something like £60 on a sequinned jacket.
Now that Kate Moss will no longer be at Topshop, I don't think it's the end of the world.  There are so many newer, fresher faces to fill the gap and now living practically right next door to Oxford Street, there are so many other collections I can get my hands on.

Don't Look Back in Shock

A casual walk round town doesn't immediately spring up connations of being judged and glared at.  Well this very thing happened to me today.  Not knowing that I would obviously offend, I put on my feather headband (that I only bought 3 months ago may I add) as a little addition to my outfit and happily strolled into town.  I wasn't aware that this would turn into October Bitch Fest.
I walked past a group of girls that were clearly conscious of what they wore and made sure it was bang on trend.  Next thing I know, I hear "What the hell has she got on her head" and the phrase I never thought I would actually hear and have someone mean it, "That was so last month".  I say this a joke or sarcastic comment sometimes, but this actually takes the piss.  I wear a headband and suddenly I become some sort of fashion laughing stock not suitable to be out in public.
To be honest, I had a little chuckle and kept walking.  I will wear whatever I want and not have to be judged.  When I'm writing the next big trend, they will be sorry.

Here's a Story Kids

One of my favourite things about Vogue online is the "Today in History" page.  I love reading about fashion stories that happened whether in the recent past or many decades ago.  Some of these stories seem just like yesterday.  How does the time fly?

One piece that I read today, October 25, was that all the way back in 2001, Karl Lagerfeld co-wrote a book alongside his doctor, Dr Houdret about weightloss.  I have made it clear previously about what Lagerfeld feels on "regular size" models being used in magazines...it's not a positive one.

The book, named 3D was provoked by the Chanel designer losing a staggering 90 pounds over a period of under a year.
However much I love Karl, I don't think it's his place to write a diet book.  BUT the book was in fact mostly written by Lagerfeld's doctor.  This can be seen as the up side. 
If I could buy anything that had Karl Lagerfeld's name on it, believe I would.  But somehow, I don't think I would rush out and buy Karl Lagerfeld diet and health advice.  Sorry Karl.

Leg Love.

When it comes to autumn/winter, I think that my best item would have to be a good pair of tights.  They can make your legs seems slimming in a pair of black opaques, they can be colourful and cherry on a dull winter's day and the most practical reason, they keep you legs warm.
One of the more fabulous reasons is that you can find a good pair of tights for about £3.  However, there is the down side.  I recently bought a pair of tights from Primark, put them on and they fitted like a glove.  But after walking round town in them for about two minutes, the dreaded happened and the tights were what felt like round my ankles.  I hate hate hate having to yank tights up every few seconds.  Frankly, it ruins your day.  When I was a school girl, I had this very problem.  My answer?  Put the tights on and over the tights, my tight fitting P.E. shorts would go on.  No one can see this fashion faux par and plus it keeps your tights in the same position.
This season I'm particulary loving knitted tights.  They look and feel so cosy and now they are so easy to find on the high steet.  Here are a few of my favourite picks.
 Topshop floral wool tights £12

 Dorothy Perkins purple opaque tights £5

           River Island brown animal print tights £7.99


  Oasis heart print tights  £10

Damned Weather

You wake up in the morning and the sun is shining on a fine October day.  Confident you have selected the perfect outfit,  a pinny, lightweight yet snuggly hoody, denim jacket and tights, you walk outside to only find yourself saying..."Bloody hell, it's freezing!"
See it's this time of year when the weather plays trick or treat with how you dress.  Take today for example.  Stupidly I thought it would be a glorious, warm sunny day, no need to overdress but knowing there would still be a chill in the air.  Now i know that sun and blue skies does not always equal warmth.
My advice is to carry with you thin layers.  Thin layers are so much more practical than carrying round a huge woolen knit and more thin layers actually keeps you warmer than one chunky jumper.
Hats are always my favourite item for the autumn/winter season.  Whether is a thinly woven one, to a big fluffy one with a bobble on top, hats will always look good and keep you cosy where you are meant to lose the most body heat.
So, to sum up.  Buy hats.  Not just one but three or four and wear lots of thin layers to keep the winter chill at bay.

Lanvin 4 H&M

I am literally so excited for the collaboration between Lanvin and H&M in November.  The first pictures were released on Vogue online today and from what I can see, the collection looks absolutely gorgeous. 
It has all the characteristics of any Lanvin piece such as uber flattering feminine silhouettes and a love for the understated yet one of their dresses can cause a loud crowded room to become speechless.
When speaking about the joining of the two, Alber Elbaz, artistic director  of Lanvin said, "...we share the same philosophy, we are both trying to bring joy and beauty to men and women around the world."
The best part about this is that being a student, I can't afford to buy a genuine Lanvin piece, but this new collection allows me to indulge in Lanvin but with H&M prices.
With London right on my door step, I wonder where I will be come November 23.

Never Let Go...But Let Go of this Dress.

Carey Mulligan + Vionnet.  This should have been a perfect combination but somehow at the recent premiere of Never Let Go in Leicester Square, this match in made in fashion in heaven wasn't so heavenly.
I have always been a fan of Carey's sense of style - down-to-earth, cool and effortlessly stylish whether she means to be or not.
Vionnet from its origins with Madeleine Vionnet, has always been exceptionally creative and imaginative and held in high regard amongst the fashion elite.
But this Vionnet dress that Carey wore for this red carpet event seems like a little girl dressing in her mother's clothes.  I usually agree with Vogue, this time I have to go against the grain and say this is one of the worst dressed of the week.  I think that the colours completely wash her out, making her fair skin look even paler.  The zig zag pattern on the midriff section also happens to make her appear slightly bloated, a bad thing for such a skinny girl. 
This is not to say that Carey shouldn't give Vionnet another go, but this dress is definetely not on my desire list. 
This makes a stylish young girl look dowdy in simple terms.
 Picture - Vogue.

Vile Velour

How was I not aware that velour seems to be making a very unexpected and very unwelcome return to the high street.  Out shopping recently, I couldn't help but notice the velour or "crushed velvet" items that seem to have become fashion.  How anyone can see this is as attractive or a good look is beyond me.

 Evans crushed velevt leggings      http://www.evans.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/TopCategoriesDisplay?storeId=12553&catalogId=33054

It might be considered a winter, Christmas feel material but still, there is just no excuse to put this on your body.

Marks and Spencer wide leg velour trousers   http://www.marksandspencer.com/

There were scarfs, hats, cardigans and bags even adorned with the look and feel of velour.  There is only one set of distinct characters that pull off the velour look and they just manage to do it - velour tracksuit clad Scouse girls.

Vintage Disaster

My ambition this autumn/winter was to treat myself to a faux fur coat.  I knew that buying one from the high street wouldn't be a cheap and wouldn't have that look thats says "I've been worn since before you were born" kinda look.
So when in Rome, well in this case Portobello Market, I seized the chance to snoop round the stalls selling fake fur coats and jackets and stiff out a good price. £40 was my limit.
Wandering around for 2 hours, I spotted a gorgeous black fur coat.  It gets better.  Faux? Check. Under the budget? Check. Fitted? Check.  It even looked vintage.
So I came home happy with my vintage fur coat for £20 from Portobello Market.  However this doesn't end happily. When I got home I looked inside to see the label only to my horror that the coat was from New Look! Hardly the vintage thrift shop store.  But I just love that coat so much.  Immediately scissors came to mind, and that label was cut out in a flash.
So if anyone asks me where the coat is from, the reply they will get is, "it's vintage darling."

UGGLY?

It's officially autumn which means it's offically ugg boot season again.  There are two sets of people when it comes to ugg boots.  Those who think that ugg boots are just damn plain fugly and would never be caught dead in them and those who wear them with pratically everything.

Ugg boots came to us from either Australia or New Zealand, (there seems to be a dispute over who can claim the credit).  The boots exploded in the States first when they became a fashion staple when celebrities such as Kate Hudson and Sarah Jessica Parker were seen wearing a pair.  This led to world wide fame for the boots.  Though originally made out of sheepskin, there are plenty of cheap, animal friendly versions.  Primark anyone?

Personally I like ugg boots but I'm not an obsessed, must wear them with every outfit kinda girl.  They look amazing with a comfy winter outfit with knitted tights and a scarf.  A pretty floral dress underneath a winter parka would also suit. But don't get me wrong, I don't like uggs with skinny jeans.  That's just uggly.

Note : if you're looking for a good pair of quality, genuine ugg boots, this is what you want - http://www.australianuggboots.com.au/uk/?gclid=COXgrMyOzaQCFU0_4wodTkbCWQ

Just Dandy

"One should either be a work of art or wear a work of art"  Oscar Wilde.

If you don't know what a dandy is by definition, then you will certainly know one when you see one.  A dandy is individual, feel they are highly valid within society but more importantly are concerned with the politics of dressing.
One of the first and most noted dandys in history is George "Beau" Brummell, literally famous for being famous, he was the first to take the polictical stance that "I am the most important".  Groomed, shaven and dressed to perfection, this is your typical dandy.
Living within an hour of London and being at a university predominately about fashion, there many dandys about. One in particular that caught my eye was a tall, slim fellow with blonde hair, braided round the top of his head wearing what i think was a "nurse uniform" blue skirt, jade colour tights and carrying a wicker handbag.  He looked like the type that wanted to make a statement. 
He may not be to everyone's taste, but he definetely was a work of art.

Chanel S/S 11 ctd

This is one of my favourite pieces from the Chanel spring/summer collection.  This navy blue knitted piece can be worn as an oversized jumper or long dress.  Rounded neck line and upward triangle hem at the bottom, this a variation on a simple ordinary jumper dress.  Not an overly summery look, you could still wear this on a crisp spring day walking through the park with a pair of opaque black tights and black leather ankle boots.  The leather gloves seem to be a key feature in this season's collections but always have a little twist.  This model wears a pair with zips but other include constructed holes and patterns cut into them. 

Chanel S/S 11

Today is the day when Karl Lagerfeld reveals his spring/summer collection for Chanel and personally, I couldn't be anymore excited.  Karl Lagerfeld is my favourite designer for the work that he has done with Chanel, now also my favourite label.
Chanel shows are considered pivotal moments in each Paris Fashion Week.  Last season, Lagerfeld put on a spectacular show for his autumn/winter collection using a real iceberg shipped over from Sweden. This time around, nobody knows what to expect from a designer who is always reinventing and creating masterpieces.
Lagerfeld started designing for the label in 1982 and is probably the best know designer for Chanel since Coco Chanel herself.  He is credited with bringing Chanel into the present day but still keeping the original Chanel sensibility and distinctiveness.  However, some have argued that the fashion house is more Lagerfeld than Coco.  I agree.  But this is a good thing.  Everything needs change and to be put into context with the modern day and that is exactly what Karl Lagerfeld is doing.
Let's just see what he brings us this time.

Camden v. Brick Lane

Now living in the south and within an hour of London, I have taken the opportunity to immerse myself in different types of London culture.  Originally from Lincolnshire, I used to only go to London as a tourist so I have already done Big Ben, The London Eye and Buckingham Palace.  I've even seen a few West End shows in my time.  That was all well and good.  Now actually living here, and studing fashion journalim, I wanted to see the more cultural sides our fine capital has to over.
Portobello Market.  Loved.  Oxford Street.  Adored.  But the real question is whether Camden Market is actually better than Brick Lane and Spitalfields Market.
Camden definetely has a vibe, a vibe that I really like.  More laid back than Portobello, (a good haggle is always worth a go there), Camden offers ultra cool, hip everythings.  Clothes, bags, jewellery, novelty gifts, candles, you name it and you will be bound to find it in Camden.  Whether it's in the market itself or down in The Stables, this little nook of London has a variety of very distinctive flavours.  On one street you find a goth wearing a black fitted corsets with huge, chunky laced up boots and hundreds of facial piercings and on another you will find a cute little vintage girl wearing fur and long cotton socks selling badges.
Brick Lane aka "Banglatown" (not my phrase), is a lot more vintage.  Everywhere you look there is vintage.  Everywhere you look is also food.  Mostly curries, you can easily find Spanish, Ethopian, French, Chinese and Mexican food so you never will be wondering what to have for lunch.
Both have similarities.  Both have trendy bars and clubs.  Both are individual.  Both you can find a good bargain.  But in my opinion, Camden is a clear winner.
But that might just be because the day I went to Brick Lane, was the day it never stopped raining.  Perhaps it's better in the sunshine.

Size 0. So last season?

Paris Fashion Week.  Probably the most anticipated event in the fashion calendar.  Always entertaining, always memorable and always changing.  For the second day of Paris Fashion Week saw plus size models going down the runway as well as former models and even more shocking, perhaps even scandalous, ordinary people picked off the street with no previous modelling background. 
I can only imagine Karl Lagerfeld's reaction to this.
It was he who commented on German magazine Bridgitte, hiring "normal" every day people to model the clothes in the magazine opposed to professional models, stating that he was outraged.  Julien Macdonald is another example who will be writhing in his Welsh boots.  He stated that if a plus size model won Britain's Next Top Model (on which he is a judge), it would be a disaster.
But with the likes of Balenciaga and Zac Posen adopting this new approach to fashion and their catwalks, will maybe Mr Lagerfeld and Mr Macdonald swallow their pride and follow suit or keep their oh so strong opinions.
I love change.
Isn't the fashion industry all about change and moving with the times?  Maybe the time is right to take on this new view that it doesn't have to be just a size 0, professional model that struts her stuff down the runway.

Belle de Jour

Recently I watched the film Belle de Jour (1967) starring Catherine Deneuve.  From reading books and magazines and from pop culture references, Catherine Deneuve had always been a mysterious figure.  Now I know why Yves Saint Laurent chose her to be his muse and part of his inner circle.  She is simply stunning.
All the outfits that Catherine Deneuve wore in the film were all designed by Yves Saint Laurent.  My personal favourite is the the knee length, double breasted, black latex coat in the scene where Belle de Jour aka Severine and her husband are walking down a Parisian street.
The connection between Deneuve and YSL began in 1966, when Deneuve attended the opening of the first Rive Gauche store on the Rue de Tournon in Paris.  From then on, Saint Laurent designed clothes for other films starring Deneuve was in including The Hunger and La Chamade.
Her most recent ties with the brand were when in 1992 she became a model for the YSL skincare line.
I think that Catherine Deneuve is seriously underrated in today's world.  We all know of Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe, these huge names that will live on for generations.  As well as movie stars, these were fashion icons i.e. Audrey Hepburn's name is synonomous with Givenchy.  But I believe that Catherine Deneuve's name should be up there with the best of them as both actress and fashion legend.

Versus S/S 11

From what I have seen from Milan Fashion Week, the best show has to be by far the Versus catwalk. 

Held in the Teatro Versace, designer at Versus, Christopher Kane really put on a show that was memorable, exciting and most of all playful...literally.

Laid out to resemble a playground, real grass and all, it mimicked the clothes that appeared down the runway.

The first looks were all tartan, yellow, orange and black connotating a little school girl look.  Like every class, there is always the bad girl, the weird girl, the innocent girl and the one who has the odd, different sense of fashion and this show was no different.  For example the "bad girl" look was the model who strutted down the runway with a long sleeved, tartan top complete with a black leather almost body warmer style jacket.  To match this was one of the shortest skirts in the show.

Florals were slowly introduced, combining with the tartan to create something that is not normally associated with each other but seemed here to work perfectly together.  Looks then moved away from tartan all together, and what came next were vertically striped, tightly fitted pencil skirts and colourful patchwork style dresses. 

Kane has definetely expreimented with this collection, using different fabrics, colours and patterns and meshing them all within the same outfit.  It offers new ideas into how we can think that two things couldn't possibly go together, but when tested, it's simply genius.

My New Love.

I love love love next season's Prada sunglasses.  Oversized, colourful and almost futuristic, these sunglasses are not for the classic Italien women walking about the streets of Milan.  These are one's for a woman who pushes fashion forwards, who celebrates something new and is not afraid to look different to the norm. 

You can just about describe them as day to day fashionable goggles.  Why has no one thought about this idea before?  Swimwear accessories as everyday accessories.  Genius!  With Prada being one of the most coveted brands in fashion, this new collection for S/S 11 is bound to get the more advanced fashion press talking...and me drooling.  My absolute favourite pairs are the more ornate, theatrical pairs which resemble butterflies from the front.

Being a glasses wearer, I just hope I can get some prescription lenses for these.  Here's hoping.

Shoes. Marriage Savers?

Legendary shoe designer Manolo Blahnik recently stated that his shoes have saved marriages from crumbling apart.  Is this just a blunt, arrogant statement to boost sales or could there actually be some logic to it?

"The male reaction to heels is half normal and half perversion, but some men tell me I've saved their marriage," he says. "The first thing men look at are a woman's legs, and there is nothing more flattering than high heels."

Now this is very true indeed.  I have never looked at myself in a mirror wearing a gorgeous pair of heels (though unfortunately I have not been graced with the expenses to purchase a pair of Blahnik's) and thought to myself, I look awful in these.  Heels are life saviours.  Even if a man tells you he loves you in pj's, no makeup and scruffy shoes, he will always have a secret fetish for his girl in a pair of killer heels. 
So ladies, the moral of this story, if your marriage is in trouble or just if your boyfriend is in a mard that day, throw on a pair of fabulous shoes and within an instant, everything little problem will be gone.

Picture - The infamous blue pumps featured in the first Sex and the City film in 2008.

Naomi Campbell

I am not a fan of Naomi Campbell.  Miss Campbell's mother said at a party, that her infamous daughter hosted for her own celebration of 25 years in the fashion industry, that she was proud of the things Naomi had achieved, "dispite her many mishaps..."  What in the name of fashion is that supposed to mean?
Yes charity work is an admirable thing. Yes Naomi is one of only a few black supermodels to become a household name. But the fact of the matter is, that Naomi Campbell is a spolit brat.  Throwing phones at assistants, diva attitudes, community service - does this not scream attention seeking and demanding?  I always believe that fame and money can directly to someone's head.  Or in Campbell's case, into her wrist.  Mobile phone throwing must be the new "in" thing. Although to her credit, that was sooo last year.
Now this is not a hate blog. I am meerly commenting on what the media has given me.  Maybe she is a sweet, shy, retitring old bird who just wants her privacy and to be draped in comfortable, cheap tracksuits.  But somehow, I think that diamonds and pearls might suit her better.  Call me crazy.

Trends : For or Against?

"Fashion invites the sense of being in fashion." Malcom Barnard, Fashion Academic.

Being in fashion?  Punks, goths, chavs, hippies or even your day to day person with no links or desires to be part of any fashion crowd.  When a trend is set by a designer or a new item of clothing is the must have for the next few weeks, is it fashionable to go with the flow or even more fashionable to work against it?
I remember the time when as a 14 year old girl, the poncho was the craze, every girl had one.  Long, short, chunky, tassled and in whatever colour.  My best friend Megan had a green and brown one resulting in her nickname of the moment, Shrek.  It was funny back then.
But now, 4 years on, as an 18 year old studying Fashion Journalism, is it crucial that I am following what designers tell me?  Me, I think I do my own thing.  Wear what I like, when I like it.  However and this is the big HOWEVER....where we shop is so dependant on trends.  This autumn/winter the new colour to be seen in is camel.  A few weeks down the line, I know that I will be buying something in this season's colour.
So Mr Barnard, I will not actually disagree with you.  Fashion does in fact invite the sense of being in fashion.  Whether you think you accept this invitation is a matter of you own opinion.