the sculpted heel

showroom obsessions

2011-06-17T14:27:00.001-07:00

I've been playing this song on repeat so have a little listen while you look at some of my favourite pieces from the showroom this week..

I am in love with this beautiful box clutch by Charlotte Olympia complete with darling porcelain leopard clasp. Subtle but sweet.

Charlotte Olympia Autumn/Winter 2011

I'm all about luxe t-shirts for that effortless 'dressed-up dressed-down' look, and they don't get much more luxe than this Preen number. It ticks all the boxes; the front is sheer apart from the intricate beading and the purple back offers a nice hint of colour without being too overwhelming. Perfect.

Preen Autumn/Winter 2011

I'm OBSESSED with any combination of fuschia and red lately so these patterned trousers are a dream come true. The slinky texture doesn't hurt either. Statement trousers are another great way to do laid-back tomboy dressing without compromising on style.

Matthew Williamson Autumn/Winter 2011

Another cute bag by Charlotte Olympia. This banana tote is perfectly in keeping with Spring's fruit trend that was seen on catwalks the world over, from Prada to Stella McCartney to Miu Miu.

Charlotte Olympia Spring/Summer 2011

These Laurence Dacade beauties instantly had me thinking of Chloe Sevigny's Opening Ceremony collection but they've done the unthinkable and managed to one-up the inimitable style icon in the rock 'n' roll stakes by adding buckles on buckles on buckles, and swapped out the smooth leather for soft suede.

Laurence Dacade for Matthew Williamson Autumn/Winter 2011

Beautiful. Ladylike. Elegant. This embroidered Erdem gown can do no wrong. Classic but modern, this wouldn't look out on place on either Jackie Kennedy or Michelle Obama.

Erdem Autumn/Winter 2011

Yet another cute and quirky Charlotte Olympia bag. This satin quilted clutch in offbeat mustard comes complete with adorable porcelain face and her signature gold web zipper.

Charlotte Olympia Autumn/Winter 2011

My soft spot for menswear is really on show this week. I love this floaty, sheer, 'water-stained' grey James Long shirt. Anyone who knows me knows that this would fit perfectly into my current wardrobe.

James Long Autumn/Winter 2011

And finally it seems I can't do a blog post without including something by Mary Katrantzou; this time it's an intricately knitted floral jumper with subtle pops of metallic gold thread..

Mary Katrantzou Autumn/Winter 2011

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

More soon.

interning obsessions

2011-06-10T12:42:00.001-07:00

This will be my last 'interning obsessions' as I have been given a promotion to Showroom Manager at Relative MO starting Monday!! Don't worry, I will continue to post but it will simply be 'obsessions' from now on..

My absolute favourite piece of the day today had to be this Giles turtleneck sweater. Cropped and cashmere with a satin-printed angel on the front. So beautiful. And a refreshing break from his almost exclusively black collection.

Giles Autumn/Winter 2011

These satin Charlotte Olympias are too much fun! Supercute but still grown up glamour.

Charlotte Olympia

This is the kind of t-shirt I could live in. Comfy, quirky and luxe. And slightly sheer for a bit of edge <3

MW by Matthew Williamson Autumn/Winter 2011

The picture doesn't really do this deceptive Yigal trench justice. The entire thing is made of the softest leather, not just the sleeves!

Yigal Azrouel Autumn/Winter 2011

This sheer, cropped Giles shirt is beyond. The beading makes it incredibly heavy but it's worth it for the beautiful detailing and dimension it adds. Giles' whole collection feels like couture. So beautifully crafted.

Giles Autumn/Winter 2011

Another Mary Katrantzou dress for good measure.. I can't get enough! This one is entirely velvet, with plastic flower paillettes on the bodice. The skirt is kind of cushioned to retain that shape.

Mary Katrantzou Autumn/Winter 2011

More soon.

interning obsessions

2011-06-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

I have decided that while I am interning at one of the biggest fashion PR companies in London and am lucky enough to get up close and personal with lots of amazing designer pieces before they even hit the pages of your favourite magazines, I will share some snaps of my favourite pieces with you. I'll try to add a few photos daily, both here and on my twitter feed if I have time.

Pretty much Mary Katrantzou's entire collection is a dream come true. The clashing prints and textures of this dress (the top half is silk and the bottom is velvet!) are to die for!!! Expect to see lots of this..

Mary Katrantzou Autumn/Winter 2011

Another favourite designer of mine, expect to be inundated with pictures of Charlotte Olympia's dreamy retro shoes. Like all Charlotte Olympia shoes, these sky-high ultra-feminine heels are perfectly quirky and cool..

Charlotte Olympia

I love these pairs with the darling porcelain faces/leopards. The fringing on the red ones and the chunky diamante heels of the others is just too much <3

Charlotte OlympiaCharlotte Olympia

That's it for today, keep checking back for more cheeky pictures from my day-to-day interning!

More soon.

Kate Moss hires Mario Testino as her wedding photographer

2011-06-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

Kate Moss has hired renowned fashion photographer Mario Testino as her official wedding photographer for her upcoming nuptials to The Kills guitarist Jamie Hince on July 2nd.

Kate Moss in an Agent Provocateur Bridal campaign a few years ago

Weddings seem to have become a recent trend for Testino who also shot the official Royal Wedding engagement photos. A more relaxed shot of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge from the engagement shoot can also be seen on the cover of this month's Vanity Fair. With his reputation as a wedding photographer firmly sealed, Moss was quick to snap Testino up for her own big day. But as far as comparisons go; we all know there really is only one Kate M.

The official engagement photos of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, taken by Mario Testino

Testino has long had a close relationship with the supermodel as evidenced by his coffee table book love letter, exclusively containing photos of Moss he had taken over the years, that was released last year.

Kate Moss by Mario Testino coffee table book

Testino has stated that he hopes to "capture the happiness that Kate is going through at the moment".

While her camp has remained notably silent on all things wedding-related, rumours are rife that famed party-goer Moss will hold her hen-do in conjunction with the Isle of Wight festival. It has also been widely reported that Kate has called upon another fashion friend, John Galliano to design the all-important dress, trial pending..

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Marc Jacobs hearts Dakota Fanning. Again

2011-06-04T16:50:00.000-07:00

It looks like the fashion world's obsession with tweens is set to continue well into Autumn/Winter. On the heels of 14-year-old Hailee Steinfeld being named the next face of Miu Miu, 17-year-old Dakota Fanning has been announced as the face of new Marc Jacobs fragrance, 'Oh, Lola!'. While lately the buzz has been firmly on younger Fanning sister, Elle, after a string of well-received films and much talked about red carpet outfits; Dakota has temporarily won back the limelight with this latest move.

Marketed as the younger sister fragrance of Karlie Kloss-fronted 'Lola', 'Oh, Lola!' features a similar bottle [insert Justin Bieber rip-off jab here] and summer-y floral hints of peony, raspberry, frais des bois, tonka beans and vanilla. Of course, like all Marc Jacobs campaigns, Fanning was shot by famed photographer Juergen Teller for the ad.

Karlie Kloss as the face of Lola

Dakota Fanning as the face of Oh, Lola!

This isn't the first time Fanning has been picked as the face of Marc Jacobs. Back in 2007 at the tender age of 12 she was controversially selected as the face of his Spring/Summer campaign..

Marc Jacobs Spring/Summer 2007

'Oh, Lola!' will hit stores on July 27th.

More soon.

Lindsay Lohan actually stars in a film! (kind of)

2011-06-04T11:36:00.000-07:00

Hyper-realist American artist Richard Phillips and director Taylor Steele have collaborated on a short film starring none other than repeat offender and sometime actress Lindsay Lohan. The film is part of 'Commercial Break', presented by the Garage Center for Contemporary Culture, which features over 100 artists exploring the relationship between advertising and culture and is currently showing at the prestigious Venice Biennale.

Phillips has previously said of his work, "My pictures involve a kind of wasted beauty - that's always been a thread in my work." The film itself appears to explore the mystery and sex appeal of the troubled pop culture icon, one of our generation's most familiar faces..

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Jimmy Choo sold for £500 million

2011-06-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

Ever since last August the rumour mill has been working overtime with murmurings that Jimmy Choo would be sold to the highest bidder, for a price tag of around £500 million. A shortlist of potential buyers included luxury conglomerates such as LVMH, Labelux and The Jones Group, as well as Mr.Choo himself who seemed keen to win back his eponymous label.

It is thought that a £500 million bid from Mr. Choo would have been backed by the Malaysian government however it was German company Labelux that won out with a reported sum of £525.5 million last week, after months of negotiations. The label's former owners, TowerBrook purchased the Jimmy Choo company for £225 million in 2007.

Tamara Mellon - who owns a fifth of the firm - said of the partnership, "This is wonderful news for the women who are, or who aspire to become, part of the Jimmy Choo lifestyle." Luxury goods group Labelux also owns Bally and will reportedly help develop Jimmy Choo in the fast-emerging Asian market.

More soon.

Balmain to launch diffusion line THIS SEPTEMBER!

2011-06-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

Having seen the popularity of the house of Balmain soar under Christophe Decarnin from 2005 until April of this year when he parted ways with the French label, new head designer Olivier Rousteing is set to make waves already by announcing the creation of a diffusion line.

Olivier Rousteing

Previously the head of Balmain's womenswear studio, Rousteing took the top spot after apparent tension between Decarnin and Balmain's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alain Hivelin proved too much - a source of which was rumoured to be this proposed diffusion line which had fashionistas buzzing years ago but never came to fruition.

Wasting no time after Decarnin's departure, the line, which will be named 'Pierre Balmain' after the founder of the brand, will be available to buy THIS SEPTEMBER!

Although there is no word of price point yet, we are promised that the line will be considerably more affordable than its catwalk counterpart which saw women eagerly putting their names on waiting lists for £3000 leather trousers and those iconic strong-shouldered jackets at the height of 'Balmainia'.

Balmain Ready-to-Wear Spring/Summer 2011

Balmain Ready-to-Wear Autumn/Winter 2010

Fans of the notoriously expensive rock 'n' roll label - which is favoured by the likes of Kate Moss and French Vogue Editor-in-Chief Emmanuelle Alt - better get saving now..

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Portrait photo from the Telegraph and catwalk photos from Style.com

Christopher Kane gives London cabs a makeover!

2011-06-03T12:33:00.000-07:00

Cabs in London just got a whole lot more stylish with a makeover from top designer and all-round favourite, Christopher Kane. The patriotic taxi-wrap references Kane's galaxy print from his popular 2011 Resort collection that was seen on everyone from starlets to First Ladies to supermodels, and everything in between.

Christopher Kane for Vodafone taxi, often seen on London's Brick Lane

The cabs are sponsored by Vodafone. Any lucky person who manages to flag a Chris Kane taxi will be able to charge their phone in it as well as pay their fare via text.

This is only the latest in a string of successes for the Scottish designer having recently won Vogue's Designer Fashion Fund which seeks to give homegrown talent the support to establish global brand success. Kane said of the honour, "The black cab is such an iconic part of London's landscape. I am honoured to have the opportunity to put my own distinctive stamp on it. Looking forward to seeing one on the street and hailing it down!"

Samantha Cameron wearing a Christopher Kane skirt for a reception at 10 Downing Street

Carey Mulligan in Christopher Kane

More soon.

Models falling over: Fashion for Relief edition

2011-05-17T15:38:00.001-07:00

Not one but THREE models fell during Naomi Campbell's Fashion for Relief charity fashion show at Cannes yesterday, including 17-year-old model-of-the-moment Lindsey Wixson (last model with her back to the camera).

Watch if you dare.. it made me clutch my ankles in horror!

Of course, let us not forget one of the most famous falls in catwalk history: Naomi Campbell herself walking for Vivienne Westwood in 1993..

More soon.

Fashion for Relief video from telegraph.co.uk

2011 Met Gala red carpet!

2011-05-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

Forget the Oscars, the Met Gala is the most glamourous event on the social calendar. Undoubtedly the most important red carpet event of the year, American Vogue's Anna Wintour annually invites the fashion elite to the opening of the latest exhibition at the Costume Institute at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. This year's retrospective, Savage Beauty, honoured man-of-the-moment Alexander McQueen fresh off the heels of that royal wedding dress.

Just like your high school prom, it's all about who asks you to be their date. Bonus points always go to the lucky young ingénues chosen to be dressed by and accompany designers to the soirée as their date. This year saw Erdem choose supermodel Lily Donaldson, Jason Wu chose Diane Kruger, Yves Saint Laurent's Stefano Pilati picked Florence Welch of Florence and the Machine fame, and Karl Lagerfeld took faux New York society brat, Gossip Girl's Blake Lively.

McQueen was well represented on the red carpet as well as in the exhibition:

Woman-of-the-moment, Alexander McQueen designer Sarah Burton wearing McQueen.

Longtime friend to Lee McQueen, Daphne Guinness wore a Spring/Summer 2011 Alexander McQueen creation.

Another longtime friend of the designer, supermodel Naomi Campbell opted for a couture Alexander McQueen gown.

Supermodel Gisele Bündchen wore an Alexander McQueen gown from Autumn/Winter 2005, with husband Tom Brady.

A previous date of McQueen to the Met Ball, Sarah Jessica Parker also wore a dress from Alexander McQueen's Autumn/Winter 2005 collection.

Salma Hayek showed off her curves in couture Alexander McQueen. Hayek is married to Francois Henri-Pinault, chairman of PPR which owns the McQueen brand.

US Vogue's Hamish Bowles wearing Autumn/Winter 2006 Alexander McQueen.

American model Hilary Rhoda in McQueen.

Actress Chloe Sevigny in McQueen.

Here is a selection of the best outfits of the evening:

Lily Donaldson wearing one of my favourite looks from Erdem's Spring/Summer 2011 show, accompanied by the designer himself.

Fashion's latest darling Elle Fanning wearing Autumn/Winter 2011 couture Valentino.

Lara Stone in Calvin Klein.

Alexa Chung in next season Christopher Kane.

A contender for my favourite look of the night - model Doutzen Kroes looked stunning in Giambattista Valli.

Model Miranda Kerr in Marchesa and Nicholas Kirkwood shoes, with husband Orlando Bloom.

Ginnifer Goodwin in Topshop Unique! (I couldn't believe it was Topshop either, it looks amazing!)

14-year-old Hailee Steinfeld obviously got the memo and wore the most popular designer of the evening, Stella McCartney. With Nicholas Kirkwood shoes.

Shockingly one of Stella M's besties, Liv Tyler, opted for Givenchy Spring/Summer 2011 haute couture.

Diane Kruger in Jason Wu, accompanied by the designer.

Leelee Sobieski in Vionnet.

Blast from the past Lucy Liu in Vionnet. Seriously where has she been hiding?!

Karolina Kurkova in Jean Paul Gaultier.

Jennifer Lopez in Gucci.

Possibly my favourite look of the evening - Dakota Fanning in Valentino.

Emma Stone in Lanvin.

Florence Welch in Yves Saint Laurent, with the designer Stefano Pilati also in YSL.

One would be forgiven for thinking the exhibition was honouring Stella McCartney as it appears her designs were overwhelmingly represented on the red carpet by the likes of Madonna, Colin Firth's Vogue-blogging wife Livia, Gwyneth Paltrow, Maggie Gyllenhaal, her soon-to-be-step-mother Nancy Shevell and Kate Hudson to name a few..

Gwyneth Paltrow in Stella McCartney and Christian Louboutin shoes.

Eva Mendes in Stella McCartney.

Naomi Watts in Stella McCartney.

More soon.

Forbes' Super-rich Supermodels!

2011-05-17T09:42:00.000-07:00

Forbes magazine has released it's annual list of the world's highest-earning supermodels. Predominantly made up of Victoria's Secret models, the top three is unchanging but there are a few new faces that have broken their way into this year's list. Just one question; where's Naomi and Freja?

Gisele Bündchen - $45 million

A gorgeous American football quarterback husband, a new baby AND more lucrative modelling contracts than you can shake a stick at. The woman is untouchable. Need I say more?

Heidi Klum - $20 million

Longtime Victoria's Secret model and television presenter Klum has become a celebrity personality as well as a model, often seen on the pages of gossip magazines as well as attending red carpet events with her musician husband Seal. She is currently the host of the highly successful, Germany's Next Top Model.

Kate Moss - $13.5 million

Queen of London cool, Kate Moss the brand continues to thrive even post-Topshop. Currently the face of Dior beauty, Moss also has her own line of bags with Longchamp as well as her longstanding contract with London high street beauty brand Rimmel.

Adriana Lima - $8 million

Becoming a household name after her guest appearance on Ugly Betty, this Victoria's Secret model is branching into high-end as one of the faces of both Givenchy and Loewe this season.

Alessandra Ambrosio - $5 million

Yet another Victoria's Secret model, Ambrosio is also one of the faces of both Dolce & Gabbana and Moschino this season.

Daria Werbowy - $4.5 million

Appearing in what seems like every campaign going this season (including two of my favourites below) this Polish-Canadian model also has a longstanding contract as the face of Lancôme.

Lara Stone - $4.5 million

After a breakout last year being touted as fashion's new It-girl, Lara Stone signed an exclusive contract with Calvin Klein for this year. The Dutch model has already appeared on the cover of Vogue three times and is married to British comedian David Walliams.

Carolyn Murphy - $4.3 million

At 37 (WOW she looks good!), Murphy is the oldest on the list along with Miss Moss. She has long-standing contracts with megabrands Estée Lauder, Tiffany and Tom Ford, and is a four-time Vogue covergirl.

Natalia Vodianova - $4 million

It's no secret that Natalia is my personal favourite. Having been a supermodel for more than a decade, 29-year-old mother-of-three Vodianova has appeared on the cover of Vogue a staggering 9 times. She has been the face of countless high profile brands most notably Calvin Klein and Guerlain. These days Vodianova focuses more on her charity, the Naked Heart Foundation, which builds playgrounds for children in deprived areas in Russia.

Candice Swanepoel - $2 million

Replacing fellow Victoria's Secret Angel, Miranda Kerr on the list, Swanepoel is the face of denim brand True Religion and has appeared on the pages of Italian Vogue.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Long live McQueen!

2011-04-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

Official Royal Wedding portrait by Hugo Bernand. The couple with their bridesmaids and page boys

The fashion world breathed a collective sigh of relief on Friday when Catherine Middleton stepped out of that Rolls Royce Phantom in a Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen creation. Rumours of which designer the future princess would choose had been running wild for months and were all but confirmed when Sarah Burton was spotted going into Middleton's hotel, The Goring, on the eve of the wedding. A spectacular moment for British high fashion.

Catherine Middleton stepping out of the Rolls Royce Phantom outside Westminster Abbey

Catherine's dutiful sister, Pippa Middleton also donned an ivory Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen dress to serve as Maid of Honour.

Catherine's sister Pippa carrying her train into Westminster Abbey

To add to the British heritage of the dress, the ivory silk tulle featured hand-cut English lace and French Chantilly lace throughout the bodice, skirt and underskirt trim handmade by the Royal School of Needlework which is based at Hampton Court Palace. The lace sleeves and wasp-like silhouette have drawn obvious comparisons with one of the great royal wedding dresses of the twentieth century, Princess Grace of Monaco's - a magnificent inspiration if ever there was one.

The newly-married couple leaving the Abbey

Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III of Monaco

The couple appeased the eager crowd with not one but two brief kisses on the balcony at Buckingham Palace. The bride's 'something borrowed' was the Queen's Cartier 'Halo' tiara, given to her on her 18th birthday.

The couple kissing on the balcony of Buckingham Palace

For the reception, HRH Catherine Duchess of Cambridge again opted for a stunning Sarah Burton for McQueen dress that again highlighted her slight frame with a diamante-embroidered waist and a luxe angora cardigan thrown over the top. Perfection.

The Duchess of Cambridge at her wedding reception

A fresh-faced Duchess of Cambridge opted for a chic, floaty blue dress belted at the waist, a cropped blazer and summer-y wedges for a stroll through the grounds of Buckingham Palace the morning after the wedding. The newlyweds took a helicopter to an undisclosed location in the UK to spend the weekend together, they will reportedly return to their normal lives this week and take a honeymoon abroad at a later date.

The couple leave for a secret UK getaway for the weekend

More soon.

Style crush: Michelle Obama

2011-04-27T07:28:00.001-07:00

Michelle Obama has been on everyone's style radar ever since her husband's Presidential campaign shot her to the forefront of every media outlet the world over in all her classic, elegant, bare-armed glory. Likened to Jackie Kennedy as her husband's "secret weapon", America's First Lady is yet to put a sartorial foot wrong, if anything she's only getting better.

Spotted this week as a guest on popular American daytime talkshow, The View, Michelle opted for a skirt by one of the most covetable labels in America, the Olsen twins' The Row. Always one to show her support for fledgling American design talent, Obama always manages to keep her look youthful and on-trend whilst still retaining a classy and demure aesthetic appropriate for the office of the First Lady - for this I could not admire her more.

The Row pleated skirt

A stunning Jason Wu gown for Barack Obama's inauguration ball

A casual look in Alexander Wang

Regal in a red Alexander McQueen gown at a White House reception for the Chinese government

More soon.

Playboy meets Marchesa!

2011-04-20T13:10:00.000-07:00

Feminine label, Marchesa have redesigned the iconic Playboy Bunny costume to celebrate the launch of the new Playboy Club in London. The one-off design is said to be based on the classic Bunny corset however design duo Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig have modernised the look and given it some high fashion credibility with their signature feminine detailing such as embroidery and draping. Marchesa's design will be unveiled on May 26th and auctioned off to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness.

Marchesa's sketch of the Bunny costume

The club itself, which opens in Mayfair on June 4th, is set to be a revival of the popular chain of swinging '60s Playboy Clubs complete with the glamourous 'Bunny girl' waitresses, world-class cocktails and a casino. But don't get too excited just yet, in keeping with the exclusive feel of the clubs guests will be private members only with membership starting at £1,200 per year plus a £1,000 signing fee.

Hef and the girls

Find out more about Playboy Club London here.

More soon.

Gemma Ward is back!

2011-04-11T13:23:00.001-07:00

It's been three years since promising model and everyone's favourite Aussie, Gemma Ward was seen on the pages of a major fashion publication and it's safe to say she was missed. Gracing the culture section of the May issue of Australian Harper's Bazaar, Ward's 'comeback' is not all it seems - it is in aid of her burgeoning acting career which currently sees her starring in a play in her hometown of Perth. While a modelling comeback seems unlikely, it's nice to see GW back in the limelight and on the fashion pages.

Gemma Ward in the May 2011 cover of Australian Harper's Bazaar

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Model comebacks: the Agyness Deyn edition

2011-04-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

Think back to 2008 and, if you're anything like me, you think of rising supermodels Agyness Deyn and Gemma Ward who disappeared just as quickly as they came. But fear not for it looks like both are set for comebacks, of a sort.

With several short films to her name since we last saw her, that brief engagement to a Stroke, as well as some strange "performance art" clips of her chauffeuring James Franco around LA whilst eating an apple, it seems Agyness Deyn is ready to come back to the world of modelling. And of course she didn't do it by halves - with a full spread in the May issue of British Vogue shot by personal favourite, Tim Walker, Miss Deyn is back with a bang - and that infamous peroxide crop. I for one look forward to seeing more of the British beauty.

Photos by Tim Walker, May 2011 British Vogue spread

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2011

2011-03-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

If you follow me on twitter you will know by now that I am a contributing fashion writer for fashion156.com! During London Fashion Week I had the pleasure of covering several shows and presentations for them which you can now see on their website, see the links here:

Vauxhall Fashion Scout Exhibition - Adam Andrascik
Alex Noble presentation
Vauxhall Fashion Scout Exhibition - Alice Lee
Alice Palmer show + backstage
Aminaka Wilmont show
bSTORE show + backstage
Burberry Prorsum show
Clements Ribeiro show
Designers Remix presentation
Esthetica - ethical fashion champagne brunch
Vauxhall Fashion Scout Exhibition - Florencia Kozuch
Fred Butler short film
Jean-Pierre Braganza show
Julian J Smith show
Orla Kiely presentation
PPQ show
Vauxhall Fashion Scout Exhibition - Sara Bro-Jorgensen
Tata Naka presentation
Vivienne Westwood Red Label show

Before the shows I also wrote a beauty trend forecasting article, predicting what the big beauty trends would be on the Autumn/Winter 2011 catwalks: here

I was also street-style snapped by several publications while I was rushing around between show spaces. So far the only one I've managed to track down is on Australian Vogue's website (here)! Unfortunately as it was extremely cold I had my coat on, so you can't really see my outfit underneath..

Photo from Vogue.com.au

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

NYFW Highlights: The Row

2011-02-17T07:07:00.000-08:00

In what seems like the blink of an eye, New York Fashion Week is over and we are left to muse over what trends will be most popular in the coming season. My favourite show was undoubtedly The Row.

The Row's latest collection exuded that elegant, understated luxury that has come to define the Olsen-run label that has been so well-received within the notoriously harsh fashion community since its launch in 2007, even being nominated for a highly coveted CFDA award this year.

The famous twins relaxed on the strict monochromatic minimalism that defined their last two collections and stepped elegantly into exploring pops of colour. The quality of their clothing can most clearly be seen in the exquisite tailoring of the perfectly-cut trousers (the label's name is notably inspired by London's Savile Row), as well as their wonderfully-executed first foray into handbags. While this collection is more grown up and ladylike than collections past, a relaxed, androgynous feel can still be seen throughout. I was most excited by the velvet slippers, elbow-length leather gloves, sexy sheer layering mixed with luxe seperates, and the cute spherical bags.

Although I'm not sure how I feel about the abundant use of fur (one coat was made entirely from fox pelts) the entire collection is undeniably covetable and offered something wearable for every occasion, almost like a capsule Autumn/Winter wardrobe.

More soon.

Photos from Style.com

The Elle Style Awards!

2011-02-15T10:55:00.000-08:00

While most people were off enjoying candlelit dinners for two or snuggling up watching cheesy romantic comedies this Valentine's Day, the British fashion world was at the Elle Style Awards honouring the best in the business.

The award of the night, went to girl-of-the-moment Emma Watson who was declared this year's 'Style Icon'. Everyone's favourite upper East-sider, Blake Lively accepted the award for 'Best TV Star' and somewhat controversially Cheryl Cole was given the gong for 'Best Music'. The award for 'Breakthrough Talent' went to my new favourite red carpet-er, Noomi Rapace of 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.

When it came to the real fashion awards of the night, Elle presented recent British Fashion Council/Vogue Fashion Fund recipient, Christopher Kane with 'Best British Designer'. 'Best Accessories Designer' went to Mulberry's Emma Hill and 'Best Jewellery Designer' went to Dominic Jones. Recognising emerging talent, the 'Next Young Designer' accolade was given to design duo Meadham Kirchhoff. Fashion darling and all-round cutie, Coco Rocha deservedly won 'Model of the Year'. Britain's First Lady, Samantha Cameron was even on hand to present Tom Ford with the award for 'Best International Designer'. Following in the footsteps of fellow supermodel Naomi Campbell at last year's awards, Helena Christensen was honoured for her 'Outstanding Contribution to British Fashion'.

Of course, with it being the 'style' awards, what people wore was of paramount importance..

Alexa Chung in Yves Saint Laurent

Presenting the awards was last year's Style Icon, Alexa Chung who looked great in blue YSL. Never one to put a proverbial sartorial foot wrong, the slit at the waist makes this relatively demure dress subtly sexy, and the mid-length is perfectly on-trend.

Caroline Sieber in Mark Fast

Stylist to the stars, Caroline Sieber looks like an absolute bombshell in this sexy Mark Fast number. Envious? Me?

Noomi Rapace in Burberry Prorsum

So far so impressed. After donning Givenchy couture at the BAFTAs, Noomi chose a stunning Spring green, ruched minidress by Burberry Prorsum, all in the same week. Definitely deserving of best red carpet breakthrough in my book. I only wish it had a couple of extra inches on the hem..

David Gandy in Dolce & Gabbana

Men take note. This is how it's done.

Emma Watson in Hakaan

Emma Watson went for flirty and fun in a cut-out Hakaan minidress. The slicked-back hair is very on-trend and adds a touch of grown-up glamour to her look.

Christopher Kane

Designer-of-the-moment, Christopher Kane went for fashion's favourite ensemble - black on black on black.

Courtney Love in Givenchy couture

Famously hit or miss, Courtney Love was most definitely a hit in this beautiful Givenchy couture gown. The sheer sleeves and decolletage give a hint of sex appeal whilst remaining demure and elegant. I also love how she didn't ruin it by over-accessorising. Kudos.

Cheryl Cole in Alexander McQueen

Cheryl looked gorgeous in a simple red McQueen dress with a plunging neckline.

Blake Lively in Pucci

Although I'm not completely sold on this boho-chic Pucci dress, I am head over heels in love with the colour, and there's no denying how stunning Blake Lively looks in it.

Thandie Newton in Louis Vuitton

For me, Thandie Newton is elegance personified. She always looks so comfortable and chic and really owns whatever she is wearing. This time the actress opted for a colourful, sexy 70's look by Louis Vuitton.

Henry Holland

Never one to shy away from a style statement, fashion darling Henry Holland wore a skinny denim effect(?) suit.

Pixie Geldof in House of Holland

Pixie Geldof donned a printed purple 70's creation from designer friend, Henry Holland's latest collection.

More soon. Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

All photos courtesy of Elleuk.com

BAFTAs red carpet

2011-02-15T08:51:00.000-08:00

Awards season is in full swing and this week it's come across the Atlantic to London for the BAFTAs, Elle Style Awards and the BRITs!

The King's Speech was the big winner of the night with it's stars Colin Firth, Helena Bonham-Carter and Geoffrey Rush all taking home the awards in their respective categories, as well as the award for Best Film, Best Original Screenplay and Best Original Score. Only furthering that Oscar buzz, Black Swan director Darren Aronofsky was on hand to accept the award for Best Actress on Natalie Portman's behalf as she was too "knocked up" to fly. In a rather touching, end-of-an-era style presentation, J.K Rowling got up on stage in snake skin Lanvin as the Harry Potter franchise was honoured for it's Outstanding Contribution to British Cinema. Other winners of the night included The Social Network's David Fincher for Best Director and deservedly Inception was awarded the accolade for Best Special Visual Effects.

Of course it's wonderful to see so many talented people recognised for their achievements in their respective professions, but what we really want to know is; what did they wear?!

Noomi Rapace in Givenchy couture by Ricardo Tisci

I wasn't sure who this was at first but I've been told it's the actress from 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'. This was probably my favourite look of the night so kudos to the red carpet newbie! An all-out glamour gown with the spiky belt adding some edge, this is a longer version of the one supermodel Lara Stone wore to her wedding reception last year.

Jessica Alba in Atelier Versace

Another contender for my favourite look of the night. Atelier Versace is just so spot on at the moment, everyone who has worn it so far this awards season has looked amazing (Angelina Jolie and January Jones at the Golden Globes, anyone?). The colour is a breath of fresh air and Jessica Alba is dead on trend with the wraparound braid that has been seen all over New York Fashion Week this week.

Thandie Newton in Monique Lhuillier

I always say if I absolutely had to wear a 'red carpet-y' gown I would wear Monique Lhuillier. The print on the fabric keeps it really fresh and the elegant shape adds an element of grandeur. Thandie Newton looks stunning, a definite three-way tie for my favourite look of the BAFTAs.

Amy Adams in Elie Saab

Gorgeous, simple, understated elegance. Elie Saab is proving popular this season, this dress is a pared-down version of what both Sandra Bullock and Scarlett Johansson wore to the Golden Globes.

James McAvoy in Prada

Just like Robert Downey Jr. at the Golden Globes, I love a man in a Prada suit. I really like how James McAvoy stood out from the other men of the evening and opted for all black, with the different textures keeping it from being too boring.

Tom Ford and Julianne Moore in Tom Ford

Julianne Moore looks fantastic. Red Tom Ford lipstick with a blue velvet Tom Ford gown, combined with her beautiful fiery hair and pale skin, what's not to love?

Emma Watson in Valentino couture

Helend Bonham Carter Emma Watson in another Valentino creation at an afterparty

Emma Watson looked lovely in two different nude Valentino couture gowns. I have to say I prefer her ruffled afterparty number, it's much more flirty and fun but still has the necessary fashion clout to pull off an event as prestigious as the BAFTAs. Either way she looked gorgeous.

Emma Stone in Lanvin

Emma Stone is fast becoming a fixture on the 'best-dressed' pages of celebrity weeklies the world over and you can see why. This two-tone, asymmetrical Lanvin number is flattering and elegant but the pop of colour manages to keep it young.

Helena Bonham Carter in Vivienne Westwood

No surprises here as Helena Bonham Carter wore yet another Vivienne Westwood gown. But hey, if it ain't broke..

Sam Taylor-Wood in Celine, with Aaron Johnson

I'm not 100% sold on the shape of Sam Taylor-Wood's gown but as this will be next season's It-colour I think she deserves a mention. And the fact that it is a design by Goddess all things minimalist, Celine's Phoebe Philo, doesn't hurt either.

Nicholas Hoult in Tom Ford

Just like Helena Bonham Carter, noone was surprised to see Nicholas Hoult wearing his go-to designer, Tom Ford yet again. Very dashing.

Edith Bowman in Emilia Wickstead

The surprise of the night for me was how much I loved what Edith Bowman wore! Not particularly well-known for her sartorial choices, Edith worked that Mad Men trend like a pro. And just like Jessica Alba she was spot on with her braided hair. Lovely.

I've decided not to have a 'worst-dressed' section in any future blog posts however I just had to give a special mention to Tracy Emin and Claudia Winkleman who both looked like they'd been dragged through a hedge backwards.

Tracy Emin in Vivienne Westwood

Claudia Winkleman in Topshop

Claudia, it's the BAFTAs! Strictly no leggings and no high street brands!

More soon.

All photos courtesy of Vogue.co.uk

Style crush: Emmanuelle Alt

2011-02-11T06:04:00.000-08:00

I was originally asked to write an article on my current style icon for Fashion156.com a couple weeks ago, but since they never ran it I've decided to let you guys see it here....

As the woman replacing Carine Roitfeld next month after her 10-year reign as Editor In Chief at French Vogue, Emmanuelle Alt has a lot to live up to. However, it might be said that Emmanuelle is the perfect choice for the role.

Carine Roitfeld and Emmanuelle Alt

Indeed the second news hit that Carine was stepping down, the fashion world was a-flutter with speculation that it would be this mysterious Fashion Director and sometime stylist for French Vogue, who had worked closely with Carine during her tenure (in fact they joined the magazine at around the same time), who would take her place.

Cue my new style crush.

Emmanuelle Alt

Emmanuelle is, in my mind, the perfect example of laidback French chic; a covetable mix of luxe and understatement which just makes her look like the coolest girl on the front row. A woman who favours a well-cut trouser over an attention-grabbing mini-dress gets a huge thumbs up in my book, her look could almost be described as ‘utility chic’.

Emmanuelle Alt

With my own penchant for monochromatic tomboy comfort, Emmanuelle is a great example of how this doesn’t have to equal lazy dressing. With her staples of great statement jackets, skinny leather trousers and comfortable-looking heels, I am obsessed with how easy she makes this look.

Emmanuelle Alt

Emmanuelle is akin to the Queen of all things minimalist, Phoebe Philo. Even something as simple as her lack of makeup really hits home this concept that you should never look too ‘done’, a notion I am fast falling for after months of attention-seeking, headache-inducing Gaga and Nicki Minaj lookalikes filling the nightclubs of London.

Emmanuelle Alt took the reins as Editor In Chief of French Vogue on February 1^st, taking a firm step into the fashion spotlight. I, for one, will be keeping a close eye (and taking notes) on what she is papped wearing front row at fashion weeks around the world!

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Christopher Kane wins second annual Vogue Designer Fashion Fund!

2011-02-02T07:57:00.000-08:00

Back in November (click here) I tipped Glaswegian designer, Christopher Kane, to win the second annual Vogue Designer Fashion Fund and today it was confirmed in an announcement made by the British Fashion Council. The fund supplies the designer with a £200,000 prize, as well as a unique mentoring programme aimed at developing young British talent into global fashion brands.

Tammy and Christopher Kane

Kane, who owns the label jointly with his sister and sometime collaborator Tammy, was selected by a panel of industry insiders, chaired by British Vogue Editor-in-Chief Alexandra Shulman, from a shortlist of 8 fledgling British designers based on the strength of his proposed business plan and a presentation of his collection. Shulman said of the choice, "I am delighted that Christopher Kane has won this year's award. His last collection was one of his best with a strong point of view but also clothes that all of us want to wear. He represents the best of British fashion talent - original, determined and influential."

Christopher Kane Resort 2011

Christopher Kane Spring/Summer 2011

The seven runners up, which included Richard Nicoll, Charlotte Olympia, Jonathan Saunders, Nicholas Kirkwood, Osman Yousefzada, Peter Pilotto and E.Tautz, will also receive mentoring through the scheme.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Catwalk photo from Style.com

Golden Globes 2011 red carpet!

2011-01-17T15:43:00.000-08:00

The Golden Globes marks the beginning of awards season which can only mean one thing; red carpet dresses! Gone were the traditional blacks or neutral hues that usually overwhelm such Hollywood events, the big trend of the evening was colour and in particular luscious emerald green.

Here are a few of my favourites..

January Jones in Versace

My favourite look of the night, January Jones divided the fashion jury with this red-hot (I couldn't resist) Versace number. I'm obsessed with fringing lately so a sexy yet flattering dress made entirely of fringe is a hands-down winner. And it doesn't hurt that January Jones is just as annoyingly perfect off-screen as her Mad Men character suggests, no wonder Donatella has pegged her as "the perfect Versace woman for the 21st century".

Leighton Meester in Burberry

This was my other favourite look of the night - finally a starlet who knows actual designers from 'red-carpet designers'. Leighton Meester looks amazing and fashion forward in this nude Burberry dress, it's the perfect mix of understated cool with the extreme slit keeping a hint of sexy. I love her gold bag with the tassel too.

Mila Kunis in Vera Wang

The colour is perfection, the ruching is perfection and I love that she kept it minimal with the accessories and didn't overpower the look. Reportedly, Mila Kunis paid $7000 for a facial in anticipation of the awards show which involved someone rubbing her face with rubies and diamonds - I'm not sure that was entirely necessary but she's certainly doing something right.

Angelina Jolie in Atelier Versace and Brad Pitt in Versace

Wait, has the world stopped turning? Angelina Jolie is wearing colour?!! After years of sticking to her safe (boring) go-to of simple classic dresses in neutrals and blacks Miss Jolie has finally dared to wear colour and of course she was right on-trend with her emerald green Atelier Versace gown. I love everything about it, the cut is very flattering, very reminiscent of a shorter Dior dress from Spring/Summer 2010.

Claire Danes in Calvin Klein Collection

Another girl who knows her fashion. This Calvin Klein dress is simple, understated flattering perfection. And a really lovely colour to boot.

Elisabeth Moss in Donna Karan

Another actress who opted for the colour of the night was Mad Men star and Golden Globe nominee, Elisabeth Moss. The ruching on her strapless Donna Karan dress keeps it from being too simple and is extremely flattering at the same time.

Robert Downey Jr. in Prada

As my boyfriend is always telling me, it's so hard for men to dress up for the red carpet as they have so few options, so when they do go for something a little different it's always appreciated. Other than the awful glasses, Robert Downey Jr. was the best dressed man of the evening in a lovely grey Prada suit.

Anne Hathaway in Armani Prive

On paper I should hate this dress - yet another floor-length gold sequin red carpet gown - but actually Anne Hathaway looks amazing in it. The low back keeps that understated sexy feeling and the colour is great on her.

Catherine Zeta Jones in Monique L'huillier with Michael Douglas

This colour is a revelation! It's so flattering on absolutely everyone. CZJ's strapless Monique L'huillier gown looks like a beautiful sculptural garden.

Tilda Swinton in Jil Sander

Tilda Swinton is like marmite for me, I often find myself either loving her or hating her. For the Golden Globes the androgynous star chose to wear a quirky half shirt-half dress from one of my favourite collections of Spring/Summer 2011, Jil Sander. If I were to go to an event like this I would absolutely love to wear Jil Sander, well done Tilda.

Amy Adams in Marchesa

This look is a bit safe but Amy Adams looks great. The cut-out detail keeps it interesting and the colour really suits her.

The Social Network's Andrew Garfield in Emporio Armani

The Social Network star looks nice in this simple black suit but arguably nothing special, however I was won over by how skinny the trousers are cut and also the fact that I'm pretty sure he's wearing my own latest footwear obsession, velvet slippers. I love when men make an effort.

Justin Bieber in Dolce & Gabbana

Don't laugh but, considering he's only 16, I thought Justin Bieber looked really good in this Dolce & Gabbana three-piece suit.

Glee's Amber Riley in unknown

Amber gracefully side-stepped the whole 'larger lady dressing for the red carpet' issue and picked a lovely dress that's also flattering for her figure. The belt does wonders for her.

Sandra Bullock in Jenny Packham

Sandra Bullock went for a pretty vintage-inspired nude Jenny Packham dress. A bit safe but it really worked for her, and I like her new fringe.

Mandy Moore in Monique L'huillier

The interesting texture and beautiful colour of this Monique L'huillier gown save it from being too boring, Mandy Moore looks great.

Kyra Sedgwick in Emilio Pucci

This Emilio Pucci dress is very flattering on Kyra Sedgwick and perfectly age-appropriate, not too young or too old for her. I'm in love with the colour and the pleats.

Julianne Moore in Lanvin

It looks like Julianne Moore's love affair with Lanvin isn't ending any time soon, choosing it for yet another red carpet event. Although many critics are getting a bit bored, I can't fault it. The bright colour is very on-trend and works well in contrast with her pale skin. I just wish she had steamed her dress..

Kelly Osbourne in Zac Posen

This Zac Posen gown is so interesting to look at and incredibly flattering. Kelly Osbourne's new svelte figure is definitely working for her.

Emma Stone in Calvin Klein Collection

Another understated Calvin Klein Collection gown with a hint of sexy in a great colour. This would definitely have been a contender for my favourite look of the night if only someone had taught Emma Stone the cardinal rule of dressing: don't match your dress to your fake tan..

Glee's Diana Agron in J. Mendel

After a string of disastrous red carpet outfits, Glee's Diana Agron finally got it right with this simple J.Mendel gown. The subtle pleats keep it from being too boring.

Now for a few of the worst outfits of the night..

Tina Fey in L'Wren Scott

I don't even know where to start. I love Tina Fey but this dress looks like something she found in her great-grandmother's attic. So hideously unflattering. I can't believe Mick Jagger's girlfriend designed this.

Natalie Portman in Viktor & Rolf

Natalie Portman looks radiant but I just don't get this Viktor & Rolf dress, the rose seems so out of place.

Jennifer Lopez in Zuhair Murad

Sheer, crystal-embellished poncho. Need I say more?

Heidi Klum in Marc Jacobs

Oh Heidi, I see what you're doing, but jumping on the 70's bandwagon doesn't automatically make this look a hit. The colours are absolutely hideous. Maybe if she wore this on holiday in St.Tropez it would look ok? It just doesn't work on the red carpet.

Gabourey Sidibe in Marc Bouwer

There are no words. I understand it's hard for the larger ladies but maybe she should take a leaf out of Amber Riley's book..

Scarlett Johansson in Elie Saab

What is going on with Scarlett Johansson here? Everything from the lacklustre hair to the way-too-old-for-her dress just isn't working. Bring back the bombshell!

Johnny Depp in Ralph Lauren Black Label

Yes, it's a given that Johnny Depp always looks incredible but I can't quite put my finger on it, I think maybe it's the shirt that's slightly too much? And is that a chain?! Just no.

Christina Hendricks in Romona Keveza

The colour of the dress combined with her beautiful pale skin and gorgeous red hair is just a little jarring. The dress is very simple and then is overpowered by the Sex and the City movie-esque head-sized corsage. Of course you can't fault her unbelievable figure, it is impossible.

Jennifer Love Hewitt in Romona Keveza

Why does Jennifer Love Hewitt always dress like she's going to a tacky high-school prom?

Olivia Wilde in Marchesa

Olivia Wilde looks amazing as always, she's a beautiful woman, but this dress is a little too 'red carpet Barbie' for me.

Christina Aguilera in Zuhair Murad

I'm really not a fan of the standard fish-tail gown and this nude lace number is lacking in class and subtlety.

And finally the mediocre ones..

Nicole Kidman in Prada

Nicole Kidman looks lovely but this Prada dress is just a bit too simple.

Megan Fox in Armani Prive

Megan Fox would look hot in anything but I'm a bit bored of the safe 'nude gown with slit' thing, it would have been nice to see her take more of a risk.

Julia Stiles in Romona Keveza

A very nice, if not a bit standard, red carpet gown but it's a bit simple and I wish she'd gone for some colour.

Michelle Williams in Valentino Resort

This beige Valentino dress made Michelle Williams look a little washed-out and it just doesn't feel glamourous enough for the Golden Globes.

Lea Michele in Oscar de la Renta

A very pretty, safe red carpet gown - asymmetrical gown with ruffles and a train, in a pale colour - a bit boring.

Helena Bonham Carter in Vivienne Westwood

I love Helena Bonham Carter but even without seeing this photo I could have told you exactly what she wore - yet another wacky corseted Vivienne Westwood gown. I like how eccentric she is though, she's always fun and relentlessly sticks to her own indvidual style, the quirky mismatching shoe colours are cute.

Eva Longoria in Zac Posen

Eva Longoria looks amazing but I'm tired of seeing yet another boring black 'red carpet dress'.

Halle Berry in Nina Ricci

Halle Berry looks phenomenal in this show-stopping Nina Ricci dress, the sheer layers keep it really fresh but the under-as-outerwear feel coupled with the short-than-short hemline is a little too young.

Carrie Underwood in Badgley Mischka Couture

Carrie Underwood is very pretty in this Badgley Mischka Couture gown, it's just a little too safe and simple for my taste.

All this red carpet action is making the anticipation for the Oscars all the more exciting. It will be interesting to see what the ladies take from this, and if the emerald-green trend is here to stay. More soon.

Photos from Vogue.co.uk and TMZ.com

Tom Ford makes his triumphant return to womenswear!

2011-01-16T15:38:00.000-08:00

Tom Ford doesn't do anything by halves. After conquering the world of cinema with his film 'A Single Man' and 6 years away from the Gucci helm, Tom Ford has finally made his long-awaited return to womenswear, this time for his eponymous label.

Held in an extremely intimate presentation in New York, unlike every other fashion show there was a strict no photography policy bar Tom Ford-approved king of controversial raunchy photography Terry Richardson who captured the event. Also unlike every other fashion show was the guestlist. Other designers can only dream of having the likes of Beyonce, Julianne Moore, Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, Lou Doillon and Daphne Guinness at their show - let alone walking in it. That's right, Tom Ford used his stellar star power to invite a bevy of A-list fashion friends and supermodels to showcase his designs.

Although it was all very hush-hush, video of the event has finally been released, enjoy!

The list of women who walked this show is ridiculous, it reads like a who's who of supermodels: Anja Rubik, Freja Beha Erichsen, Natalia Vodianova, Daria Werbowy, Liya Kebede, Stella Tennant, Amber Valletta, Chanel Iman, Karlie Kloss, Abbey Lee Kershaw, Joan Smalls, Lauren Hutton and Karen Elson who also provided the soundtrack.

Tom Ford's vision of designing for the sexy, glamourous, grown-up women we all wish we were has set the bar extremely high for next season and the fashion world is waiting with bated breath.

More soon.

Somewhere

2011-01-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

2011 is definitely looking up in terms of incredible cinema, filling the void until the release of The Black Swan next week is another of the most eagerly anticipated films of the year, Somewhere. The Sofia Coppola-directed, achingly cool film portraying the darker side of fame was supposedly inspired by her own Hollywood childhood spent celebrity-watching at the Chateau Marmont.

The film features 90's heartthrob Stephen Dorff as a semi-washed up Hollywood actor leading an empty hedonistic life residing in the infamous Chateau Marmont. His 11-year-old daughter is played by the latest pre-teen style crush to hit the fashion pages, Elle Fanning, younger sister of Dakota, who comes to stay. A starkly honest portrayal of Hollywood life without the fake Hollywood ending, what else would you expect from the mind that brought us Lost In Translation?

With a soundtrack that includes stripped-down versions of Strokes songs and the new Phoenix album, this is without a doubt one of the coolest films of the year.

Somewhere is showing in select cinemas now.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

British Fashion Council announces Fashion Forward sponsorship winners!

2011-01-14T05:23:00.000-08:00

The British Fashion Council has named the three designers that will be receiving 'Fashion Forward' sponsorship to show at London Fashion Week for the next two seasons. Meadham Kirchhoff, Todd Lynn and Peter Pilotto will all be receiving funding as well as access to invaluable mentoring on the best way to grow their respective brands.

Judged by a panel of top industry insiders from magazines, sponsors, department stores and the British Fashion Council itself, the five-year-old Fashion Forward scheme (which is sponsored by Coutts & Co) aims to fund up-and-coming British designers and allow them the freedom to grow their business in London and show their collections at one of the world's greatest platforms, fashion week.

Peter Pilotto Spring/Summer 2011

Todd Lynn Spring/Summer 2011

Meadham Kirchhoff Spring/Summer 2011

Edward Meadham and Ben Kirchhoff said of the honour, "We are both pleased to have been awarded Fashion Forward. It is so important that young talent is appropriately supported in this industry and Fashion Forward gives us the opportunity to develop our work in a relevant manner."

Previous winners include the likes of Erdem, Giles, Christopher Kane, Louise Goldin, Richard Nicoll, Jonathan Saunders, Marios Schwab and Roksanda Illincic which can only mean these three brands are hotly-tipped for big things to come.

More soon.

Catwalk photos from Style.com

The BRITs get a makeover.

2011-01-13T05:57:00.000-08:00

The BRIT award has been given a very fashionable makeover. In order to keep the 34-year-old ceremony innovative and exciting the organisers have unveiled their plans for the iconic statuette to become a blank canvas that can be redesigned every year by a leading British creative. And who better to design the first of the new generation BRIT awards than everyone's favourite eccentric grandmother of British fashion, Dame Vivienne Westwood?

Dame Vivienne Westwood and her design for the new BRIT award

BRIT Awards Chairman David Joseph said of the choice, "She continues to be unique, innovative, not to mention massively inspired by music and vice versa. We are honoured she accepted our offer of designing 2011's trophy."

Appropriately wrapping the award in a Union Jack-printed toga, Westwood's design has managed to make this prestigious award all the more covetable. Westwood also took this opportunity to further the cause she's been fighting for years, writing the words "Stop! Climate change" on the bottom of the trophy. The only question now is, how can they possibly top this next year?

You can catch the BRIT Awards live on ITV1 on 15th February.

More soon.

Photo from Telegraph fashion

Spring/Summer 2011 campaigns! Mulberry

2011-01-11T15:36:00.000-08:00

Following on from their big win at the British Fashion Awards, Britain's 'Best Designer Brand' unveiled a fitting British garden-inspired Spring/Summer campaign. The ad features the ever-captivating pout of Lindsey Wixson who seems to be everywhere since getting her big break two seasons ago as the face of Miu Miu at just 15. In contrast to the harsh monochrome of many other campaigns this season, Mulberry's pretty pastels is definitely one of my favourites.

The campaign was styled by i-D's Edward Enninful and shot by the king of dreamy ethereal photography Tim Walker, who also shot one of my favourite ever photographs.

Lily Cole on a spiral staircase by Tim Walker

More soon.

Spring/Summer 2011 campaigns! McQueen

2011-01-11T15:08:00.000-08:00

Alexander McQueen's former assistant and current head of design, Sarah Burton seems to be doing an excellent job at honouring his memory, if you don't believe me see for yourself in the Spring/Summer ad campaign.

Taking inspiration from a hat designed by Philip Treacy in honour of McQueen's close friend and eccentric fashion icon Isabella Blow following her own tragic suicide in 2007, the ad features top model Lindsey Wixson surrounded by butterflies.

Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2008

Burton also clearly referenced this inspiration in the latest Alexander McQueen collection. It's so great to see her managing to simultaneously keep Lee's spirit alive and keep the brand innovative and forward-thinking.

Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2011

Click here to see Nick Knight's tribute film to his friend: 'To Lee, With Love, Nick'

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Catwalk photo from Style.com

Spring/Summer 2011 campaigns! Versace

2011-01-11T14:38:00.001-08:00

Perpetuating the madness that is Mad Men mania, Donatella Versace handpicked January Jones as the "perfect Versace women for the 21st century". After January was spotted front row at the latest Versace show as well as attending a recent Versace dinner in London, this was one of the more eagerly-awaited campaigns of Spring/Summer - and it did not disappoint.

Shot by renowned photographer Mario Testino, Jones channelled fashion's favourite fictional bitch Betty Draper Francis, posing nude in the risque 60's-inspired shoot.

More soon.

Spring/Summer 2011 campaigns! Givenchy

2011-01-11T14:17:00.000-08:00

I always get excited when the new season campaigns are released. It may seem weird to say that I enjoy flicking through the advertising pages of Vogue almost as much as reading the articles but then, who could blame me? They're like works of art that at the same time set the tone for the whole season.

Fashion photography dream team Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott seem to have shot every campaign this season and Givenchy was no exception. Going for the shock factor, it seems Ricardo Tisci took his monochrome image very literally when he unveiled a new muse in the form of albino male model Stephen Thompson. Already one of the more talked about ads of Spring/Summer 2011, it's definitely worked.

More soon.

The British Fashion Awards 2010!

2010-12-08T02:31:00.000-08:00

Known to many as 'the fashion Oscars'; the fashion elite gathered at top London hotel, The Savoy last night to celebrate the best Britain has to offer (see all the nominees here). The Prime Minister's wife even dressed up for the occasion in a gorgeous black Osman gown but, never one to be accused of lavish spending in the face of drastic government cuts, her shoes were Next.

British Fashion Council Chairman Harold Tillman with Samantha Cameron in Osman

Presented by Samantha Cameron was a touching film tribute to the late Lee Alexander McQueen who was posthumously awarded for his Outstanding Achievement in Fashion Design, a fitting tribute to an extraordinary designer who received the coveted Designer of the Year Award an astounding four times during his career. The film which featured McQueen's most iconic pieces was directed by Nick Knight and styled by Edward Enninful. His successor and long-time assistant, Sarah Burton collected the award on his behalf.

click here to see the short film: To Lee, With Love, Nick

Guests included supermodels, designers and industry insiders alike; Claudia Schiffer, Yasmin Le Bon, Christopher Kane, Thandie Newton and Daphne Guiness were among those who attended the event.

Model Daisy Lowe in Elie Saab

Supermodel and actress Lily Cole showing off her newly brunette locks in Nicholas Kirkwood shoes

British Fashion Awards nominee Charlotte Dellal of Charlotte Olympia, with designer Henry Holland of House of Holland

Designer Giles with super-stylist and editor-in-chief of Love magazine Katie Grand

Two new categories were introduced at this year's awards, namely Digital Innovation and Special Recognition. Special Recognition was given to supermodel Naomi Campbell for her contributions to the fashion industry over the last 25 years who fittingly wore a beautiful couture dress by her late friend, McQueen. Digital Innovation unsurprisingly went to Burberry who have been pushing boundaries for seasons - they were one of the first brands to live stream their shows worldwide, prompting hundreds of designers to follow suit.

Supermodel Naomi Campbell in couture McQueen

Burberry designer Christopher Bailey

It wasn't a big night for Burberry who only picked up only one of a possible four awards. Patrick Grant picked up the award for Best Menswear Designer for his label E. Tautz, Mulberry scooped Best Designer Brand and the award of the night went to Phoebe Philo for Celine who took the coveted Designer of the Year award.

Designer of the Year Phoebe Philo of Celine

My favourite award of the night, the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator, deservedly went to reknowned over-achiever Nicola Formichetti who, at 33, has worked for top fashion titles such as V Magazine, Dazed and Confused, AnOther and Vogue Hommes Japan. He is currently creative director of Thierry Mugler and also finds the time to play stylist to a little someone called Lady Gaga.

Fashion Creator of the Year Nicola Formichetti backstage with his award, with Daphne Guiness

Fashion darling and previous Emerging Talent winner, Nicholas Kirkwood finally picked up the big prize of Best Accessories Designer. Other winners included; Meadham Kirchhoff for Ready-to-Wear Emerging Talent and Husam el Odeh for Accessories Emerging Talent and the British public voted for Alexa Chung to take home the British Style Award.

Alexa Chung backstage with her award in Chanel

Accessories Designer of the Year Nicholas Kirkwood with actress Thandie Newton in Kirkwood shoes

Upset of the night for me: newlywed and current face of Calvin Klein, Lara Stone beat out David Gandy to pick up the Model of the Year award. Poor Gandy!

Model of the Year Lara Stone

British Fashion Awards nominee David Gandy

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

All photos from britishfashionawards.com

British Fashion Council/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund shortlist!

2010-11-26T02:12:00.000-08:00

The shortlist for the second annual British Fashion Council/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund has been announced! Several of last year's nominees made the list including Christopher Kane, Richard Nicoll, E. Tautz and Nicholas Kirkwood, as well as newcomers Peter Pilotto, Jonathan Saunders, OSMAN and Charlotte Olympia.

The British Fashion Council

The fund was set up last year by British Fashion Council Chairman, Harold Tillman, as a way of helping talented British designers grow their young label into a global brand by not only awarding them £200,000 but also supplying them with an unparalleled mentoring scheme. The seven runners-up will also receive a mentor. Harold Tillman said of the competition, "The British Fashion Council's Vogue Designer Fashion Fund offers incredibly talented British designers an unparalleled opportunity. We're very proud to be able to offer our promising designers this support."

Erdem Spring/Summer 2011

Last year saw fashion favourite Erdem beat out stiff competition to take the prize. (click here to see)

This year's eight shortlisted designers will present a proposal to the judging panel chaired by Alexandra Shulman, Editor-in-Chief of British Vogue, about what they plan to do with the Fund should they be selected. Shulman stated, "It is very exciting to be in our second year of the Fund and to be providing such tangible help to this extremely impressive shortlist of British designers."

Christopher Kane Spring/Summer 2011

My pick - it's so hard as there are so many worthy winners in that list! I think it will go to Christopher Kane as he lost out last year and since then has come out with a collection that received astounding international acclaim. His collaboration with Topshop last year also saw a whole new market become familiar with his work which can only mean good things for him becoming a covetable global brand.

You will be able to follow the judging process on the pages of British Vogue, who will be announcing the winner in their March 2011 issue.

More soon.

Catwalk photos from style.com and mydaily.co.uk

We're still mad for Mad Men!

2010-11-26T01:24:00.001-08:00

It seems as though Mad Men madness isn't going to end any time soon! Versace have confirmed that January Jones a.k.a the inimitably perfect Betty Draper Francis will be the face of their Spring/Summer 2011 campaign. The choice comes as little surprise to fashion industry insiders as it seems Jones is fast becoming BFFs with Donatella Versace herself; she was spotted front row at the Versace show in Milan as well as at Donatella's recent fundraising dinner for Central Saint Martin's in London. Having loved the Atelier Versace dress that she wore to the Emmy's in August, I for one can't wait to see her on the ad pages of Vogue come Spring.

Atelier Versace

Versace have confirmed that the campaign will be shot by Mario Testino but other than that they're not giving away any other details, which only makes us all the more eager to see what they come up with! Guess we'll just have to wait 'til Spring..

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

I dream Dior.

2010-11-09T11:34:00.000-08:00

If you love fashion illustration as much as I do then you're going to love the new exhibition opening at Somerset House tomorrow! 'Dior Illustrated: Rene Gruau's Line of Beauty' is an exhibition of the work of one of the great illustrators of his time, a time of great glamour and sophistication. Gruau worked for many brands including Balmain and Givenchy but he is most famous for his longstanding work with Dior which ran from 1947 all the way to the 1990s.

Gruau's sketches allow an insight into one of the great fashion houses. John Galliano mused that Gruau "captured Dior's style and spirit better than any other because he understood his long-term friend.. for me a Gruau sketch captures the energy, the sophistication and daring of Dior, and equally is testimony to an enduring friendship."

To catch this phenomenal exhibition then make sure you get yourself over to the Embankment Galleries at Somerset House, November 10th - January 9th.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

It's here!

2010-11-02T16:41:00.000-07:00

The day we've all been waiting for.. As promised; a full preview of the Lanvin for H&M collection in this haunting fashion film starring the one and only, Natasha Poly.

It's all so sleek, so Lanvin. I want so much of it! The feminine, asymmetric party dresses, the tongue-in-cheek, luxe teeshirts, the patent heels complete with cutesy bow; Alber Elbaz did not disappoint. Apparently all of the production was done by Lanvin to ensure the quality of the garments. Pinch me. I still can't quite believe it's Lanvin but at H&M prices!?

The film reminded me of this Lanvin teeshirt that I still dream about..

I'll definitely be queuing at my local H&M come 23rd November!

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

The Row Spring/Summer 2011. I am in love.

2010-10-22T13:20:00.001-07:00

"Always with the mentality of refined, minimal luxury that was wearable."

Watch the video to preview the latest collection from The Row and hear Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen talk through the thought process behind it. I really love the round sunglasses and the natural hair and makeup!

For me, The Row is perfection. I am a huge fan of minimalism in fashion and The Row has been doing it best for seasons now (sorry, Phoebe Philo). It manages to be simple and elegant without ever being bland. The Row offers classic staples with a modern twist, perfect cuts, and a wearability factor that no woman could say no to - all in neutral colours. What's not to love? These are pieces that will stand the test of time, they are season-less, they are an investment. I am in love.

For proof of just how season-less The Row really is, check out this fashion film they released back in 2007 which is still just as relevant in fashion today as it was 3 years ago.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Spark!

2010-10-19T04:59:00.001-07:00

If you follow my twitter you might have heard me mention the wonderful Spark once or twice.

Spark is a young'un. Taking her name from her actual middle name, 'Sparkle', this girl is headed for big things. Having only graduated from the Brit school in May, the very next day she was off supporting fashion favourite, Marina and the Diamonds, on a full tour of the UK. Now signed to Marina's label (Warner/679), Spark is making magic of her own. This week alone saw a full page feature in the NME and her new single, Revolving has been garnering lots of Radio 1 play from the likes of Nick Grimshaw. Spark is definitely one to watch.

Check out her debut video for single, Revolving:

For more music or upcoming tour dates (Spark will be supporting Diana Vickers as well as Pete Wentz's side project, Black Cards on dates across the UK) check out her myspace. You can also follow her on twitter.

More soon.

Lanvin for H&M sneak peek!

2010-10-19T04:21:00.000-07:00

A little over a month ago you might remember me mentioning a little something that was in the works.. Lanvin's Alber Elbaz and Lucas Ossendrijver are designing an affordable line for high-street mega-brand, H&M! Of all of H&M's designer collaborations (Jimmy Choo, Sonia Rykiel, Karl Lagerfeld) this is by far the one that has caused the biggest stir within the fashion industry, as Elbaz himself put it, "I think I loved the idea that H&M was going luxury, rather than Lanvin is going public." And so with the promise of the full collection's unveiling on November 2nd, fashionistas the world over started crossing off the days on their calendars. But those lovely people over at H&M know us all too well and know that we can't wait that long! So the first images of the collaboration, shot by David Sims, have been released early!

It's hard to believe that this is an advert for H&M, the beautiful, understated elegance screams Lanvin! With the gorgeous ruffles, cinched waists, and asymmetric necklines - all in fashion's favourite colour - this collaboration is guaranteed to have girls worldwide trampling over eachother to get their hands on an affordable piece of Lanvin come November 23rd. Better start queuing now then..

More soon.
Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Spring/Summer 2011 trends: marabou accessories!

2010-10-15T06:31:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I'm not a big fan of 70's style, so a lot of the Spring collections have been a little disappointing for me. However I am really getting into one apparent Spring/Summer 2011 trend; marabou accessories! In the spirit of Marc Jacobs' most recent Louis Vuitton show; I'm embracing camp tastes, and loving it.

House of Holland

Yves Saint Laurent

Giles

feathers at Chanel

From earrings and belts at House of Holland to neck pieces at Giles and Yves Saint Laurent; marabou (the material often used to make feather boas) was rife on catwalks across the globe and is an undeniable trend set to sweep the high street come Spring. In the kitsch-est possible interpretation of this, I want to channel a bored 60's housewife and am lusting after some fluffy shoes, very Mad Men - or Carrie in Sex and the City (season 6, episode 2).

shoes from a burlesque website

Apparently Christopher Kane is way ahead of me and has already shown these marabou masterpieces in his 2011 Resort collection. WANT!

Christopher Kane

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

All runway photos are from Style.com

"I think that accessorising makes or breaks an outfit."

2010-10-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but it always seems as though I can never find decent unusual jewellery anywhere! So I was thrilled to learn of newly-launched online jewellery boutique, Studded & Stoned, that brings cool, edgy brands that are hard to find to UK customers.

Founder, Charli Brown, first came up with the idea when she noticed that "there is a serious shortage of the particular style of designer jewellery in the UK that I'm trying to bring over," such as Leviticus, Pamela Love or Erin Wasson's LowLuv that were featured on the American fashion blogs she loves. It's easy to tell how passionate Charli is about her new venture through her extremely conscientious buying, valuing designers for "their quirkiness", as well as their individuality and affordability; "so many designer pieces are all about the safe, over-the-top glam factor, so you're only really left with highstreet brands if you want something a little quirky. I mean Dior and McQueen are awesomely quirky, but who the fuck can afford them at our age? I've tried to find affordable quirky pieces that have been made in small quantities, with love and effort - minus the epic price tags over at YSL/McQueen/Dior. I think I'm trying to cater to jewellery lovers who love individual pieces, are prepared to pay a little more for a uniquely designed piece, but not shell out 2 months' wages on a high-fashion piece."

Studded & Stoned founder, Charli Brown

"I think that accessorising makes or breaks an outfit."

I've been obsessing over the rings..

Bijules Bone Knuckle Ring, 14ct Gold, £120

Leviticus Talon Ring, sterling silver, £70

Bijules Mini Curved Bar Ring, solid silver, £140

Low Luv by Erin Wasson Hinged Armour Ring, silver-plated, £53

I've completely fallen in love with the entire concept of Studded & Stoned, right down to the 'community' where they encourage a completely interactive experience with their customer base - you can also follow them on twitter. With it's intelligent, eclectic mix of hard-to-find edgy designers and unusual UK-based designers such as Mawi and Lara Bohinc; I think Studded & Stoned is definitely fast becoming one of my new favourite boutiques!

More soon.

Follow The Sculpted Heel twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Lanvin hearts H&M.

2010-09-09T07:36:00.000-07:00

Fashionistas worldwide rejoice; it has been confirmed that Lanvin's Alber Elbaz and Lucas Ossendrijver are collaborating with H&M to create affordable collections for both men and women! Did you ever think you would hear the words 'affordable' and 'Lanvin' in the same sentence?! Lanvin are following in the footsteps of other luxury designers such as Jimmy Choo, Sonia Rykiel and Karl Lagerfeld in attempting to bring high end to the high street with H&M.

When asked about the collaboration Elbaz said; "When H&M approached us to do this collaboration, they asked if I could actually translate the dream we created at Lanvin to a bigger audience. It wasn't a project about dress for less. I think I loved the idea that H&M was going luxury, rather than Lanvin is going public. I thought it was a smart concept so I say 'I do'."

The designs will be revealed on November 2nd and will go on sale at over 200 stores worldwide on November 23rd. Shall we start camping out now?

More soon.

Erdem makes toys fashionable!

2010-09-07T10:07:00.000-07:00

Erdem has designed a limited edition stuffed toy pug exclusively for top London boutique, Start! Pugs are very close to both Start owners, Brix Smith-Start and Philip Start's hearts. The couple currently have two cuties, Pixie and Gladys, who are regulars at their boutique in Shoreditch. You may also be familiar with the pups from their many appearances alongside Brix on Gok's Fashion Fix.

The pugs are made using Erdem's famous printed silks, as seen in his latest collection. If you can't afford one of Erdem's captivating dresses, then this is a darling way to grab a piece of fashion history for a fraction of the price - the pugs are only £120, available from Start London now! There will only be 30 made, so hurry if you don't want to miss out.

As part of their regular 'film fridays', the lovely folks at Start even made a cuter-than-cute stop motion film to showcase the pugs..

More soon.

It's the Fashion Oscars!

2010-09-07T08:36:00.000-07:00

The British Fashion Council last week announced their shortlists for this year's annual British Fashion Awards which "will recognise the most influential people in fashion today and celebrate the reputation and development of British fashion".

And the nominees are..

Designer of the Year:

Phoebe Philo for Celine

Christopher Bailey for Burberry

Erdem

My pick - this is a tough one but it absolutely has to be Phoebe Philo. Her debut collection for Celine caused a frenzy throughout the fashion community, editors and civilians alike are now clamouring to embody Philo's chic, minimalist, Celine woman. For me it was the defining collection of the season. Christopher comes a close second, but he can console himself with last year's award..

Model of the Year:

David Gandy

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Lara Stone

My pick - the Gandy. The man's a phenomenon. And he's the only male ever to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. All three would definitely be worthy winners though. Rosie was also nominated last year but was beat out by newcomer, then 17-year-old, Georgia May Jagger.

Best Designer Brand:

Burberry

Pringle of Scotland

Victoria Beckham

Mulberry

My pick - Burberry. Yes, they won last year. Yes, they deserve it again this year. Both the men's and women's collections were phenomenal - who doesn't want that shearling aviator jacket now?! I can't say enough good things about Burberry, it was just perfection. (Who did Victoria Beckham have to lend David to to get nominated?! I mean really. I like her stuff but 'best designer brand'?)

Best Accessories Designer:

Camilla Skovgaard

Nicholas Kirkwood

Emma Hill for Mulberry

My pick - I'm torn between my love for shoes and my love for bags! As this season seems to be the return of the 'It-bag', I'm going to have to go for Emma Hill. Hill was nominated last year and lost to cutesy jewellery designer Katie Hillier. Of course, Nicholas Kirkwood is a genius and I'd be more than happy to see him win too.

Best Menswear Designer:

Christopher Bailey for Burberry

Margaret Howell

E. Tautz

Paul Smith

My pick - Burberry hands down. Although I was surprised by how much I liked Paul Smith last season.

Ready-to-wear Emerging Talent:

Mary Katrantzou

Michael van der Ham

Meadham Kirchhoff

My pick - longtime favourite, Meadham Kirchhoff.

Accessories Emerging Talent:

Charlotte Olympia

Jessica McCormack

Husam el Odeh

My pick - Charlotte Olympia is one of my absolute favourite shoe designers. Plus the woman has undeniable style.

Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator:

Nick Knight

Rankin

Nicola Formichetti

My pick - Isabella Blow is one of my style icons so for me this award is probably the most important category of all, for me it is about inspiring others and pushing the boundaries. Nick Knight's interactive residency at Somerset House, SHOWstudio, caused a big stir in the fashion community and allowed the public the chance to see the magical world of high fashion photography as art, and for that I think he deserves this award.

The winners will be announced at the British Fashion Awards ceremony on December 7th.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Anna and Grace get all dolled up!

2010-09-01T06:08:00.000-07:00

To celebrate this year's Fashion's Night Out, Barney's New York commissioned Brooklyn-based artist, Andrew Yang to create rag dolls in the likeness of everyone's favourite fashion editors, Anna and Grace. These hand-sewn, hand-painted dolls are absolutely one-of-a-kind. Yang even said that he had to special order Anna's wig and cut it himself to get the bob just right, he also gave Grace a perm! Why oh why can't they mass-produce these dolls?! They're absolutely incredible. Just imagine the accessories you could play with!

Bidding is open until September 31st. You can register here to bid.

100% of the proceeds will be going to the New York City AIDS Fund.

These dolls remind me of my obsession over the equally fashionable Diet Coke commercial dolls.. all I can say is, Barbie who?

More soon.

Vivienne Westwood Shoes, An Exhibition 1973-2010

2010-09-01T04:23:00.000-07:00

Until September 22nd, Selfridges will be hosting an exhibition of nearly 200 pairs of iconic Vivienne Westwood shoes in the store's new 'Ultralounge'. Celebrating the past five decades in fashion; the retrospective will feature a selection from Westwood's archive as well as her contemporary collections, including those Super Elevated Gillie Shoes that Naomi Campbell famously fell from in 1993, as well as the ever-popular 1981 pirate boot.

There's only 3 weeks left to see this amazing piece of fashion history in person so hurry up before you miss out! I, for one, can't wait.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Mad for Mad Men.

2010-09-01T03:43:00.000-07:00

Mad Men fever is everywhere. It was all over the Autumn/Winter catwalks, including the likes of Prada and Louis Vuitton. Last month's GQ cover featured the inimitable Joan, and now it seems Rolling Stone has caught the bug. Having won two Emmys this week for best drama series and best writing for a drama series, it's official; Mad Men is the best show on the air. The latest Rolling Stone cover features the delectable Jon Hamm, surrounded by his female co-stars; Elisabeth Moss, Christina Hendricks and January Jones.

The issue also features some behind-the-scenes pictures of the stars hard at work! Enjoy.

More soon.

Kate Moss splits from Topshop.. sort of

2010-09-01T02:57:00.000-07:00

Kate Moss' 14th collection for high street mega-brand, Topshop will be her last. Following a lucrative 3 year partnership, Sir Philip Green has officially announced that after Moss' October line she will no longer be releasing full collections but will instead be releasing two capsule collections a year. Green hinted that it was Kate's inability to 'design' full-time that led to this decision, however others have suggested that it is a decline in demand that forced his hand. Rumour has it Topshop will be re-releasing several of Moss' more popular designs in a bid to revitalise the brand so if you missed out the first time around, be sure to stock up!

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

'The Gorgeous Issue'

2010-08-18T08:28:00.000-07:00

Katie Grand's bi-annual high-fashion magazine, LOVE, is back in stores on 23rd August with it's fourth installment of editorial wisdom and it is once again forcing you to choose between eight covetable covers. Either that or hunt down all eight, like any good fashionista worth her salt-free snack-a-jacks.

I'm sure you recall all the fuss their last issue caused with it's eight covers, each featuring a different naked supermodel in the same pose, and although this season is arguably a lot less risque it's no less desirable. LOVE's covers were once again shot by fashion photography dream team, Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott. Maybe it's The Rebel in me, but I want Agyness Deyn's..

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, The Siren

Agyness Deyn, The Rebel

Gisele Bundchen, The Bombshell

Kelly Brook, The Sweetheart

Alessandra Ambrosio, The Angel

Ms. Perfect, The Mannequin

Lauren Hutton, The Heroine

Sienna Miller, The Pin Up

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Natalie Portman, minus the shaved head.

2010-08-18T08:03:00.000-07:00

I love psychological thrillers. I love Natalie Portman. What more could you ask for?

It feels like good films are few and far between these days (you could probably count the ones from the last year on one hand..) so I'm really excited about this one. It looks beautiful, it looks intelligent, it looks dark, and to top it all off the costumes were designed by Rodarte duo Kate and Laura Mulleavy! It literally couldn't get better than this. Oscar buzz is already beginning to build but unfortunately the UK release is not until February 2011 so watching this trailer on repeat will have to do for the time being.

The artwork for the posters is absolutely beautiful too..

More soon.

Oh, Naomi

2010-08-11T13:41:00.000-07:00

Naomi Campbell's narcissism knows no bounds. The supermodel was summoned to testify last week against former Liberian president, Charles Taylor who allegedly gifted her with illegal uncut diamonds 13 years ago. In her testimony, Naomi made sure to make a point of how much of an "inconvenience" it was for her to testify at the war crimes tribunal at The Hague. Dressing up for the occasion, Naomi wore a yellow Alaia ensemble and a beehive.

According to Campbell, she met Charles Taylor at a dinner party at her grandfather(Nelson Mandela)'s compound. Later, in the middle of the night, she claims two men knocked on her bedroom door and gave her a small pouch containing the diamonds saying only, "a gift for you". Apparently she didn't think anything of being given a small pouch containing the "dirty-looking pebbles" in the middle of the night by two huge bodyguards because she receives gifts all the time, "it is quite normal for me". The supermodel stated that she couldn't know for sure that the uncut stones came from Taylor but that she assumed that they had come from him. A mere six hours later she apparently simply gave the stones to the head of one of her grandfather's charities with the instructions to "make sure the children benefit from them". (Yeah..) Her testimony has been contradicted by that of actress Mia Farrow who was also a guest at the dinner, and also by her former agent, Carol White. The trial continues.

More soon.

When two obsessions come together.

2010-08-11T11:04:00.000-07:00

What happens when you put together one of my favourite designers, one of my favourite supermodels and a wind machine? My new obsession:

Alexander Wang chose 23-year-old model, Abbey Lee to star in his first ever campaign video for his Wall Street-inspired Autumn/Winter 2010 ready-to-wear collection. Shot in an abandoned hotel in New York City; the video just screams Wang's sexy, grunge-chic aesthetic. Watch on repeat.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for quicker updates.

Agyness Deyn, Model

2010-08-11T10:31:00.000-07:00

With a new website and pop-up pub on the go - not to mention that brief engagement to a Stroke - and of course the fledgling acting career; Aggy's been a busy girl.

But just when you thought she was gone from the pages of bona fide fashion magazines for good, relegated to the likes of short films and the best-dressed sections of lesser magazines; Agyness Deyn finally makes her triumphant return to modelling in a spread for V Magazine. The styling is an absolute dream, I want every outfit. Just one question; what's the likelihood her new haircut will spark as much of a trend as the last one?

More soon.

Photos from graziadaily.co.uk

Isle Of Wight !!

2010-07-10T12:13:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of going to the Isle of Wight festival last month courtesy of a very generous friend. I was very grateful to be camping in the guest area which was considerably cleaner and had the added luxury of (reasonably) nice bathrooms. I was left wishing I'd thought ahead and booked a 'pod pad' though as our flashy pop-up tent left much to be desired. Plus they looked super-cute! It was like a tiny, brightly-coloured village..

The weather was beautiful though so we couldn't really complain. This is the view that greeted me when I woke up on Saturday morning..

Saw lots of amazing acts but not nearly as many as I'd hoped to catch, as is usually the way with these things. Missed a fair few acts having been in the Ray-Ban Rooms taking full advantage of the free bar, spying on Kate Moss and commandeering The Hold Steady's previously peaceful baseball game..

There was some fantastic fashion on stage as demonstrated by Paloma Faith, Marina Diamandis, Coco Sumner and Florence Welch.

Paloma Faith had the best show-stopping stage outfit by far! She was fantastic.

Coco Sumner of I Blame Coco definitely had the best grunge look of the weekend. You can't see in the photo but she had the cutest brown brogues on with pulled up light grey socks too. I'd love this outfit!

Florence looked great in her usual floaty dress in either white/black/nude, hey, if it works..

Of course, there was lots of great festival fashion to feast your eyes on at the backstage bar too..

Kate Moss hitching a ride on a golf cart backstage, glamourous. The hair extensions were very questionable up close..

Alexa Chung showing everyone how utility chic should be done

Erin O'Connor

Daisy Coburn of Daisy Dares You doing grunge very nicely

Marina looking good doing her usual quirky thing in a piano coat and bikini bod teeshirt

Pixie Geldof showing her patriotism for the England v USA World Cup match

I have to say, I was pretty impressed with H&M's first foray into festival lounges with their amazing teepee complete with bar, food, couches, beanbags, incense, flatscreens showing the main stage and much-needed and environmentally-friendly solar phone charging. If you felt like waiting an hour, you could also get a leopard print manicure in any combination of colours you chose! Well worth it, I know, but unfortunately my boyfriend did not feel like waiting and so we headed off to see more bands..

Standouts for me over the weekend were The Strokes (obviously) and one of my absolute favourite bands right now, Local Natives. Local Natives were so great, they just had so much energy and they kept switching up who was on what instrument which made it really interesting to watch, never a dull moment. I really can't get enough of them at the moment.

The Strokes

The Strokes Soma and What Ever Happened? (Sorry for my poor camera quality)

Local Natives performing a Talking Heads cover, 'Warning Sign'

I also enjoyed Marina and the Diamonds, I Blame Coco, Bombay Bicycle Club, La Roux, Paloma Faith, Blondie, Paul McCartney, Jay-Z and, for comedic value, Semi Precious Weapons. The only person I really regret missing is Florence!

Macca's big finish

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

Fashion images from Vogue.com and zimbio.com

Lara Stone and David Walliams tie the knot!

2010-05-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

After a whirlwind romance, supermodel-of-the-moment, Lara Stone has finally married her funnyman beau, David Walliams. The couple met in mid-2009 and by January it was announced that the pair planned to wed, which understandly prompted lots of raised eyebrows. It was reported that ladiesman Walliams proposed with a beautiful vintage engagement ring after calling Lara's parents in Holland to ask for permission.

David Walliams and Lara Stone shortly after their engagement was announced

Lara's engagement ring

Witnessed by what was probably the weirdest guestlist ever (I never thought I'd see Dale Winton and Tom Ford at the same party); the couple were married in Claridge's hotel before moving on to Shoreditch House for the reception. Lara opted for a beautiful white lace Givenchy gown but changed into a shorter-than-short Ricardo Tisci for Givenchy gold minidress before heading over to the party in a gorgeous vintage Rolls Royce.

The wedding car

The happy couple

It must have been quite a party as guests included Walliams' co-star Matt Lucas, Elton John, Richard and Judy, Geri Halliwell, Jonathan Ross, Stephen Fry, Noel Gallagher, Natalie Imbruglia, James Corden, Fearne Cotton, Ronnie Corbett, Alan Carr, Jamie and Louise Redknapp, Tess Daly and Vernon Kay, Barbara Windsor, Dale Winton, Tom Ford, Denise van Outen and Sam Taylor-Wood and her fiancee, Kick-Ass star Aaron Johnson to name a few..

Tom Ford

A heavily pregnant Sam Taylor-Wood and her fiancee Aaron Johnson

Elton John and his husband David Furnish

Alan Carr and Natalie Imbruglia

Jamie and Louise Redknapp

Geri Halliwell

Tess Daly (looking better than I've ever seen her!) and Vernon Kay

Fearne Cotton
Russell Brand

Mazel tov to the happy couple!

More soon.

Alistair Guy's 'Shot From Above' at The Ivy

2010-05-31T06:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been a while, being a full-time fashion intern at Start keeps me pretty busy these days.

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending a work event at The Loft at The Ivy. It was a private viewing of Alistair Guy's latest photography exhibition, 'Shot From Above', which features influential men in fashion. 'Shot From Above' follows seamlessly (forgive the pun) on from Alistair Guy's last exhibition, 'Behind The Seams', which focused on influential women in British fashion. The ten portraits, all shot from above, show the men in their respective work spaces. The likes of British Fashion Council chairman Harold Tillman, shoe designer Terry de Havilland, milliner Stephen Jones, designer William Tempest, jewellery designer Dominic Jones, Vogue's Robin Derrick, hairdresser James Brown and of course, boutique owner Philip Start, were all included.

Harold Tillman, Chairman of the British Fashion Council and owner of Jaeger and Aquascutum

Philip Start, co-owner of Start Boutique and Mr. Start

Robin Derrick, Creative Director of British Vogue

Stephen Jones, milliner

Terry de Havilland, shoe designer

Dominic Jones, jewellery designer

James Brown, hairdresser (definitely my favourite portrait!)

William Tempest, womenswear designer

The event was a hit with several of the distinguished men in question showing up to see their portraits. Guests sipped on Gin Brambles and Moscow Mules, the latter being my drink of choice. Grazia's Melanie Rickey was set to have her hen party that same night and so in the spirit of 'the more the merrier', Brix Smith-Start invited all 30 hens along who luckily behaved themselves, although as The Ivy was their first planned stop I can't speak for the rest of their night!

Alistair Guy in Mr. Start, with Erin O'Connor

Brix Smith-Start in Halston Heritage

Alistair Guy with James Brown in vintage Yves Saint Laurent

Dominic Jones and Hannah Marshall

Alistair Guy and Philip Start with his portrait!

The event was sponsored by Mr. Start. The prints will be on display for the next month at the Mr. Start tailoring store, 59 Rivington Street, EC2, and are also available to be purchased.

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates.

All party photos by Luke Freeman

The Life of a Fashion Intern. (one week in)

2010-05-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

I've just started interning at Start, Brix Smith-Start and Philip Start's boutique in Shoreditch. Right now I'm mostly doing press and online stuff and I'm loving it. Lots of lending clothes out to press and getting them back. Online orders, online content such as designer bios etc. I'm hoping to get some buying experience soon too!

Check out a couple of blogs I wrote for Jeanette's pop-up shop at Start (which I helped put together), and the launch party (which I got to attend!):

http://jeanettesshop.blogspot.com/2010/04/jeanettes-basement-invasion-launch.html

http://jeanettesshop.blogspot.com/2010/04/from-basement-to-basement-invasion.html

Elle Japan came to the office last week and took some pictures of me and two colleagues for a feature on Start that should be in their July issue. I was lucky enough to get to style myself in anything I wanted from the Spring/Summer collections! I chose to wear two of my absolute favourites; Alexander Wang and Vivienne Westwood. It was shot in the street outside Start, I can't wait to see how it turns out. Here's a sneak preview of what I was wearing:

Alexander Wang top and trousers, Vivienne Westwood Anglomania x Melissa shoes. Vivienne Westwood necklace and earrings (my own). Fossil watch (my own). Stella McCartney bra (my own).

I'll try to keep you updated on any exciting new experiences I get to do whilst interning.

More soon xx

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My new obsessions.

2010-04-23T17:09:00.000-07:00

I caught the end of Jools Holland's show last night for the first time in a long time and discovered some new little treats I thought I'd share with you.

Melody Gardot was beyond intriguing. Absolutely my new obsession. She had style, she had mystery, she was amazing. So much so that I immediately looked her up on the internet and what I found only made me fall in love with her more. Her life story reads like that of a Hollywood movie; hit by a car that ran a red light whilst cycling in 2003, the accident completely changed her life. Gardot's injuries were so severe that she spent a year in a hosptial bed and was forced to learn to perform simple tasks such as walking and brushing her teeth again. Melody only learnt to play guitar and started writing music after her accident, which she credits with helping her heal - Gardot has spoken out many times about the benefits of music therapy and has expressed a desire to set up a music therapy programme in the future. Following the devastating accident she also took up a macrobiotic diet and became a Buddhist (she sold her apartment and gave away all of her furniture and even her cat) in a bid to help her healing process. Due to injuries to her brain, Melody has trouble with her long and short term memory and perception of time to this day. She is also hyper sensitive to light and sound, which is why she was wearing sunglasses during her performance on Jools Holland.

Jerry Dammers' Spatial A.K.A. Orchestra closed the show with an amazing reworked rendition of The Specials' classic, Ghost Town. Experimental jazz covers of my favourite songs done with Egyptian-themed props and costumes? I'm sold.

Kate Nash's triumphant return and 'Band of Horses' also tickled my fancy.

More soon.
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Frock Me is back!

2010-04-23T16:23:00.001-07:00

It's been a long time coming but finally, the second season of Frock Me is here! Fashion darlings Alexa Chung and Henry Holland have come together to host their fashion-oriented TV show once more and I could not be more excited - no longer will we have to resort to watching re-runs of Sex and the City for our TV fashion fix! If you don't know what I'm talking about then this advertisement should tickle your tastebuds:

In a rather disappointing turn of events, word has it that Alexa's parts were filmed seperately in New York where she is now based full-time following a move to host her MTV show, 'It's On with Alexa Chung'. A bit of a let down for those of us who loved seeing the two of them actually together, however it could be an exciting insight into the New York fashion scene where Alexa is now a bona fide style icon. As long as these New York segments aren't as brief and innocuous as Agyness Deyn's in the first season then it might still work. Henry's parts were filmed all across Europe presumably to interview leaders in fashion much like Alexa did in the first season, and joining them will be Radio 1 presenter, Gemma Cairney who will be travelling all over the UK to see what us Brits have to offer. And with fashion favourite, Marina and the Diamonds set to be the musical guest on the first episode, what more could you want?

Whatever the format, it promises to cater to the needs of fashion-lovers everywhere and I, for one, am thrilled to see it return to our screens! You can watch the first episode on Channel 4 on Sunday 25th April at 1pm.

More soon.

Beth Ditto designs second plus-sized collection for Evans.

2010-04-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

What better celebrity to design a collection for plus-sized high street store, Evans, than the larger-than-life Gossip frontwoman, Beth Ditto? ..Noone. Exactly.

Beth Ditto

It's understood that Ditto has been in meetings with Evans' head of design, Lisa Marie-Peacock, working on her follow-up collection for the brand. Her first range, which was launched in July of last year, was a huge success so understandably there is a lot of buzz surrounding her Autumn/Winter 2010 design efforts.

Beth Ditto's first collection for Evans

Her last line was a reasonably tamer reflection of her own personal outrageous style, albeit with leggings and sequins a-plenty, and her second line promises not to disappoint. I am rather excited about Ditto's eclectic sources of inspiration which reportedly range from 1940's wartime romanticism to punk to the noughties to the diverse places she visited whilst on her recent world tour. Evans' head of design, Lisa-Marie Peacock, said that “This is a concept for girls with different styles, shapes and sizes. Beth wanted to make modernised versions of style through the years, to create a unique and mix-matching collection.” I must admit, I can't wait to see what she's come up with.

At a size 22, Ditto is constantly pushing the boundaries of what society deems acceptable for a woman of her size to wear, often choosing to strip down to her underwear on stage. However, many plus-sized women may not be brave enough to wear sparkly leggings and body conscious dresses (and it's questionable whether they should). Saying that, I'm sure this will prove to be another massive hit for Ditto and Evans and the countless women out there who feel that big can be beautiful.

Performing hit single 'Standing In The Way Of Control' in Sydney earlier this year with her band, Gossip

The bad news for most of us fashionistas is that Evans only stocks sizes 14 - 32, so start eating those cupcakes and piling on the pounds now if you want to wear Ditto's designs come Autumn. Beth will reportedly be making a series of appearances when the range is launched in mid-September so be sure to keep an eye out at your local Evans store!

More soon.

New Twilight Eclipse trailer.

2010-04-23T13:45:00.000-07:00

Robert Pattinson fans rejoice (because let's face it; who's Team Jacob?), a trailer for the latest installment of the Twilight franchise has been released! Enjoy.

I love Dakota Fanning so much, she's great, I might go see it just for her! But it looks like you're going to have to wait a while to see more of your favourite supernatural love triangle looking moody and worried in Forks as it's not due for release in the UK until July. And don't worry Twilight fans, Robert Pattinson recently denied talk that he and co-star Kristen Stewart are engaged calling the rumours "bullshit", so there's still hope for you yet..

More soon.
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Gucci Opens New Pop-up Store in London.

2010-04-22T04:33:00.000-07:00

Last night was the glamourous opening of Gucci's new Icon-Temporary pop-up store in London. Everyone was there, from models to editors to musicians, to celebrate Mark Ronson's collaboration with Gucci. The party was co-hosted by Dazed & Confused co-founder Jefferson Hack and Gucci's Creative Director Frida Giannini, as well as Ronson. Surprisingly Frida made it over from Italy despite the current ash crisis; I'm sure thousands of stranded holidaymakers would love to know her secret..

Gucci's new pop-up store in Covent Garden

Mark Ronson, Frida Giannini and Jefferson Hack

The guestlist for the party was like a who's who in music, fashion and film. There were celebrity couples a-plenty; supermodel Anouck Lepere accompanied her fiance Jefferson Hack, Yasmin and Simon Le Bon showed up arm in arm, as did new Harry Potter golden couple Bonnie Wright and Jamie Campbell Bower. One Night Only frontman and the current face of Burberry, George Craig also made an appearance minus his Harry Potter Burberry sidekick Emma Watson, Vogue royalty Julia Restoin-Roitfeld came with her Gucci model boyfriend, and of course it wouldn't be a bona fide fashion party without Leigh Lezark DJ'ing.

Anouck Lepere

Leigh Lezark (centre)

Clearly one party is just never enough, and so those who were still in the mood moved on to legendary jazz club, Ronnie Scott's for the afterparty where Friendly Fires and Patrick Wolf performed. Also on stage was Mark Ronson's side project with Sam Sparro and Theophilus London, 'Chauffeur', who were joined by Simon Le Bon and Nick Rhodes of Duran Duran for a surprise performance. And even more celebrity faces showed up to support Gucci including the likes of Johnny Borrell, Dominic Cooper and Poppy Delevigne.

Chauffeur

Friendly Fires

Getting back to the man of the hour; Mark Ronson has designed two pairs of trainers for the Italian luxury brand - a herringbone high-top boat shoe which is appropriately named the 'Gucci Ronson', and the black and white polkadot 'London Gucci Ronson'. The 'London Gucci Ronson' is only available for purchase via the Gucci iPhone app, thus making it even more exclusive and special, obviously. Ronson spoke of his own affinity for footwear saying, "I spent many years as an avid sneaker collector, so I wanted to make sure these Gucci shoes were truly special, both from an aesthetic point of view and a collectable one." Anyone who buys a pair of Gucci Ronsons will receive a free Chauffeur LP.

Mark Ronson with his design efforts for Gucci

In addition to Mark's creations, Gucci's Creative Director Frida Giannni has designed a limited edition collection of 17 sneaker styles (only 2 of which are for us girls) especially for London, prices start at £395.

The interior of Gucci's Icon-Temporary London store

One of only two styles for women in the limited edition collection

Now that Icon-Temporary has come to London, Gucci has given their classic green and red logo a British makeover just for the occasion with some rather fitting royal blue, how thoughtful. This is the third Gucci Icon pop-up store that has been seen around the world. The first was in New York back in October, then in Miami in December. A fourth pop-up is set to open in Tokyo in June. If you want to pick up some limited edition Gucci sneakers then you better get down to 37 Earlham Street, Covent Garden quick; the store is only open for three weeks from today!

More soon.

Press photos from David M. Bennett / Getty Images

Lara Stone is the new face of Giorgio Armani cosmetics.

2010-04-15T13:28:00.000-07:00

Giorgio Armani has named model-of-the-moment Lara Stone as the new face of their cosmetics campaign. The debut image is for Armani's new 'Eyes to Kill' mascara which focuses on Stone's incredible eyelashes with a close-up image of her face. Lara's trademark bleached eyebrows, as well as her eyes and cheekbones are highlighted with only part of her pouty mouth on show whilst she is seemingly giving a sultry, sexy look from the shadows - how very Morticia Addams.

Lara Stone for Giorgio Armani cosmetics

Morticia Addams from The Addams Family

The voluptuous model already fronts several major campaigns including Louis Vuitton and Jaeger. She has also recently taken over as the face of Prada's fragrance 'Infusion d'Iris' from fellow top model Sasha Pivovorova who was incidentally the face of Giorgio Armani cosmetics last season too.

Lara Stone for Prada fragrance

Sasha Pivovarova for Giorgio Armani cosmetics

Sasha Pivovarova for Prada fragrance

More soon.

Lara Stone for Giorgio Armani cosmetics photo from ElleUK.com

SHOE NEWS!

2010-04-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Get excited ladies because possibly the most exciting news for women ever has been confirmed this morning; Selfridges has announced it's plans to open the world's largest shoe department. Set to be designed by architect Jamie Forbert, it is reportedly going to be bigger than the turbine hall in the Tate Modern (if you haven't been there, trust me, it's ridiculously huge). The new shoe emporium is due to open in September and will also include six salons and ten individual brand boutiques, presumably for the higher end brands such as Chanel or Yves Saint Laurent etc. It has been reported that several labels, including Givenchy, Chloe and Stella McCartney, will also be making some of their designs available exclusively at Selfridges.

Any shoes you could possibly want will surely be found in this new shoe heaven and I for one could not be more excited, I know where I'm going to be come September!

More soon.

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H&M gets ready for the festival season.

2010-04-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

Chosen to front H&M's latest 'Fashion against AIDS' festival campaign are Lizzie Jagger and Lou Doillon, a brilliantly chosen mix of fashion and rock 'n' roll royalty. Doillon's mother is the namesake of the famous Hermes Birkin bag, Jane Birkin. It is also common knowledge that Jagger is the daughter of Mick Jagger and longtime lover Jerry Hall, she is also the older sister of up-and-coming British Fashion Council's 'Model of the Year' and current face of Rimmel London, Georgia May Jagger.

The collection goes on sale in H&M stores next month. 25% of sales will go to youth HIV/AIDS awareness projects which help to promote the message of safe sex among young people. H&M's collection will include everything you could possibly need for a great festival experience - not only gorgeous clothing and accessories but also tents and sleeping bags, and even menswear for your boyfriend. What more could a girl ask for? Now if only I could look like that after 3 days in a tent..

More soon.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is named the new face of Monsoon lingerie.

2010-04-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

GQ recently dubbed her the sexiest girl in Britain, and now Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is set to be the new face of Monsoon lingerie. Already a Victoria's Secret angel, Rosie is no stranger to underwear modelling. She has also starred in a short film for luxury lingerie brand Agent Provocateur. I must admit I have a bit of a girlcrush on Rosie H-W, especially after her stint blogging her own daily style on Vogue's website last month; I can't wait to see these sure-to-be steamy ads.

Rosie Huntington Whitely for Victoria's Secret

More soon.

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Leighton Meester is named the new face of Herbal Essences.

2010-04-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

It has been announced that Gossip Girl favourite Leighton Meester - better known as Upper East Side snob Blair Waldorf - will be the new face of Herbal Essences. Meester will be appearing in print adverts in the US as well as on the company's website and facebook page. It comes as no surprise that Leighton has been snapped up by Herbal Essences, her impeccably groomed hair has long been the envy of girls the world over since her hit TV show, Gossip Girl, started airing in 2007. No word yet on whether or not the theme of the campaign will be that of past Herbal Essences advertisements (i.e. those cheeky commercials that aired during Desperate Housewives with women faking orgasms and lots of innuendo regarding the gardener, although she should be no stranger to that as she was rather convincingly faking an orgasm to annoy Nate and Serena on a recent episode of Gossip Girl whilst she was really just flipping through a magazine!) but whatever the theme, I look forward to seeing 'Blair' work those beautiful brown tresses in a Herbal Essences advertisement soon.

More soon.

The faces of Autumn/Winter 2010.

2010-04-09T06:34:00.000-07:00

Considering that most of the big glossy magazines are comprised largely of advertisments these days, it's important that those advertisments are at the very least something nice to look at. Here's what you can look forward to on the pages of next season's issues of Vogue.

It has been announced that Karlie Kloss will be returning for Dior having fronted their Spring/Summer campaign and opened the last two shows. The new advertisement will be shot by renowned fashion photographer Steven Meisel and styled by Vogue's Edward Enninful (you might recognise him from a little film called 'The September Issue'). It seems the 17 year old has quite the hold over, not only John Galliano, but the entire fashion industry; she has already fronted several major campaigns including Hermes, Oscar de la Renta, Dolce & Gabbana, and the Marc Jacobs fragrance 'Lola'. You may also recognise her from a spread in the most recent (May) issue of British Vogue.

Karlie Kloss for Dior Spring/Summer 2010

In an unusual move, Louis Vuitton has opted for two models who didn't walk their Fall runway despite having a whole host of supermodels such as Bar Rafaeli, Natasha Poly, Magdalena Frackowiak, Lara Stone, Mariacarla Boscono, Dorothea Barth Jorgensen, Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Joan Smalls, Lily Donaldson, Karmen Pedaru, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Coco Rocha, Jessica Stam and Elle MacPherson to choose from. My favourite super, Natalia Vodianova, who was sat front row for the show has been named as the new face of Louis Vuitton, alongside old favourite Christy Turlington who wasn't even present. Can't wait to see those two Vogue-ing together! Marc Jacobs you are a genius.

Natalia Vodianova for Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2008

Christy Turlington for Louis Vuitton Autmn/Winter 2000

With campaigns for the likes of Barneys New York, Chloe and Y-3 already under her belt, Karmen Pedaru has been chosen to front both the Emporio Armani and Fendi advertisments so expect to be seeing a lot more of her. I'll admit when I heard the name I wasn't immediately familiar with her but when I looked it up I was a bit embarrassed that she wore so many of my favourite looks from the latest shows and I didn't recognise her! She walked for all the big designers including Oscar de la Renta, Chanel, Burberry, Balmain, Chloe, Louis Vuitton, Stella McCartney, Jean Paul Gaultier, Gucci, Michael Kors, Fendi, Dries Van Noten, Celine, Isabel Marant etc.

Rumour has it the Emporio Armani campaign was recently shot rather informally (no studio, no unrealistic lighting, no security teams) in full view of the public on the streets of New York with Karmen donning several black ensembles. Can't wait to see it!

Karmen Pedaru walking for Burberry Autumn/Winter 2010

More soon.

Follow the twitter for by-the-minute updates: http://www.twitter.com/thesculptedheel

Catwalk photos from Style.com

Sex and the City 2!

2010-04-09T06:00:00.001-07:00

Just when you'd lost all hope that you'd ever see your favourite foursome again (it feels like it's been forever) those cheeky people over at Warner Bros release the most tantalising teaser to get you hooked all over again.

Too much fabulousness! Yes, the storyline looks somewhat cheesy and predictable but let's be honest ladies, we're only going for the clothes. Patricia Field is a genius. (Plus I always liked Aidan more than Big anyway.) But you'll have to wait a little while longer, Sex and the City 2 doesn't hit cinemas until 27th May.

More soon.

COCO COLA!

2010-04-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

As someone with a serious caffeine addiction (in addition to my fashion addiction) I came across something that really excited me recently and I just had to share it with you. Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel designer extraordinaire, has designed a limited edition Coca-Cola bottle and shot a new campaign for the brand featuring none other than supermodel, Coco Rocha! Does it get more fabulous?

The bottle for 'Coca-Cola light' features Karl's famous silhouette and colour scheme (classic black and white) as well as a fun pink bottle cap to top it off! Karl also shot the campaign which features Coco Rocha wearing a more feminine version of Lagerfeld's famous 'uniform' so to speak, and sipping Coca-Cola out of a chic 'goblet' which is apparently Karl's preferred way to enjoy the drink.

Just when you thought Coke couldn't get any more chic it does! Am I the only one who already adores the Diet Coke commercials with the ridiculously perfect puppets, first seen sponsoring fashionista TV fave, Ugly Betty? The attention to detail is truly amazing, I would kill for one of those dolls!

I for one can't wait to get my hands on some Karl Lagerfeld Coca-Cola.

More soon.

The British Fashion Council/Vogue introduce 'Fashion Fund'.

2010-04-01T17:49:00.000-07:00

London-based, Erdem Moralioglu was named the first winner of the British Fashion Council and Vogue's £200,000 prize which looks to allow fledgling designers not only the financial means necessary to expand their company globally, but also unparalleled mentoring in developing designer business both in the UK and abroad. Erdem was chosen from eight finalists including personal favourites, Nicholas Kirkwood and Christopher Kane.

The British Fashion Council stated that Erdem was chosen because of his "strong design signature and clear vision for the immediate development and growth of his business." British Vogue Editor-in-Chief and chair of the judging panel, Alexandra Shulman, added that, "In Erdem I feel we have a worthy winner who already has an international reputation and who has the creativity and application that is needed to become a global business. He makes beautiful clothes that already have a recognisable stamp that is his alone."

Erdem's Spring/Summer 2010 collection

Famous for his bold floral prints and elegant, floor-length evening dresses, Erdem has proven popular across the board - his classy, feminine dresses are often extremely in-demand for high-profile, glamourous events. His most recent show for Autumn/Winter 2010 even reduced some of the fashion set to tears, such was it's beauty. His designs have been seen on the likes of First Ladies and starlets alike, just this week Keira Knightley was spotted out in one of his creations for next season. Hopefully this newfound financial security gifted to Erdem by the 'Fashion Fund' will allow him the creative freedom to continue to produce his beautiful signature pieces, and he won't lose himself in his bid to become a more global and marketable 'brand'.

Sarah Brown

Keira Knightley

For now it looks like Erdem now has the inside track to the top, and I for one couldn't be happier.
More Soon.

All catwalk photos from Style.com

The Delicious Miss Dahl.

2010-04-01T17:08:00.000-07:00

I have a new favourite TV show and considering I have little interest in food or cooking, it came as a bit of a surprise. Once described by late, great fashion legend, Isabella Blow as "a blow-up doll with brains", 'The Delicious Miss Dahl' is not only a feast for the tastebuds but also for the eyes. It is a veritable cute overload complete with intermittent illustrations (reminiscent of those seen on the pages of her grandfather, Roald's popular children's books) and dreamy voiceovers. The kitchen and garden she cooks and eats in (her own? I'm not sure?) scream quintessential English countryside romance.

I am in love with Sophie's Cheshire cat-grin, she comes across as wonderfully endearing and very passionate about what she is doing, which makes for extremely interesting television. Yes a lot of you out there might be thinking, what does a supermodel know about food? But you might be interested to know that Dahl got her start shocking the fashion world as a plus-sized model (most notably writhing nude on billboards for Yves Saint Laurent fragrance 'Opium' in 2000).

Yves Saint Laurent's controversial 'Opium' fragrance advert

Admittedly I'm not a great authority on cooking but I was impressed with Miss Dahl's recipes so much that I want to give them a go myself - she introduces an interesting concept of cooking for your mood which really strikes me as something a lot of people, including myself, can identify with. Sophie makes cooking seem young and fun and sexy - Nigella doesn't even compare. Dahl allows some insight into her seemingly perfect world with relevant fun anecdotes that only make her more charming. A wonderfully elegant, eloquent and effortlessly stylish woman; in the first episode alone she sported a great on-trend trench as well as skinny leather trousers. And not that I'm jealous or anything but her GORGEOUS vintage engagement ring seems to shine brighter in every shot, although there have been no guest appearances from hubby-to-be, Jamie Cullum just yet.

You can watch 'The Delicious Miss Dahl' on Tuesdays at 8.30PM on BBC2.

In case you missed the first two episodes ('Selfish' and 'Romance'), you can catch them on the BBC's website here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00rs7c9

More soon.

Alexander McQueen's final collection. Autumn/Winter 2010.

2010-03-17T18:06:00.000-07:00

Only a very select few were given the honour of viewing McQueen's last ever collection in person, which was shown in an 18th-century mansion during Paris Fashion Week. Although it was completed by his team, a spokesperson assured everyone that the 16 piece collection (an extremely small collection by any standards) was around 80% complete at the time of McQueen's death. It was stated that he had drawn the patterns, chosen the fabrics and made the cuts - basically we were assured that it was all his own work.

All unfortunate circumstances aside, let's focus on the clothes, because they were nothing short of phenomenal:

I love this; very bold, very McQueen.

This is just perfection. So angelic, so elegant, so perfect.

I love this too. It's just amazing beyond words.

This coat is apparently made entirely from feathers individually dipped in gold-leaf. Just incredible.

I know it sounds like I'm fully just jumping on the bandwagon, but seriously this is one of my absolute favourite McQueens collections to date, I love the theme; I love the drama and the extravagance and the elegance of it all - it's so regal, so ethereal, so beautiful. I think it's just such a terrible shame that we lost such a great talent so young when he had so much more to give, so much more to live for. I really hope that, if nothing else, people learn from this. He had such amazing vision, he always stood out among high fashion designers as the one who pushed boundaries, he was at the top of his field, he just had so so much to live for. Always original, always unique; this ready-to-wear collection was more like couture which is why it will not be going on sale (all the pieces are so intricate and unique that they would have had to have been made-to-order for individual customers) but it will go on loan to a select few fashion magazines for shoots.

According to a statement released by the company, the Alexander McQueen brand will carry on for now with his design team running the show. A replacement head designer is yet to be announced but it seems likely that it will be his longtime assistant, Sarah Burton, which seems like a very fitting honour and the perfect way to make sure that the brand retains McQueen's vital influence.

More soon.
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All catwalk photos from Style.com

CFDA Awards Nominations announced.

2010-03-17T16:42:00.000-07:00

The Council of Fashion Designers of America today announced their nominations for this year's awards at a cocktail party thrown in Diane Von Furstenburg's New York studio. The board once again unanimously voted DVF in as President of the Council. This will be her third two-year term, meaning she will now serve until December 31st, 2012. Von Furstenburg made it a point to note that there will be a tribute to late designer and fashion darling, Alexander McQueen at the awards ceremony which will be held on the 7th June at the Lincoln Centre in New York.

And so, without any further ado, here is a list of the people selected by the Council to be honoured this year:

International Award: Christopher Bailey. The man of the moment is winning design awards left right and centre, as is his brand, Burberry. It really does seem that the heritage brand (once overwhelmingly associated with chavs in the mainstream media) is back on top.

Burberry Prorsum Spring/Summer 2010

Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award: Michael Kors. I'm not a huge fan personally but he's been around for a long time and he's a bona fide American treasure - the First Lady wearing him in her first Official White House Portrait confirmed it, in case you weren't sure. Well deserved.

Michelle Obama wearing Michael Kors Spring/Summer 2009

CFDA Board of Director's Special Tribute Award: Alexander McQueen. I have a feeling that this is going to be a very tearful tribute as he was so greatly loved within the fashion community. He had so much talent and it really is such a shame to lose him so young (McQueen committed suicide earlier this year at the age of 40). His final collection (completed just before his death) was shown in a small viewing in Paris a couple of weeks ago and it was undoubtedly one of his best and most inspired to date, he was truly a visionary.

Alexander McQueen Autumn/Winter 2010

Fashion Icon Award: Iman. David Bowie's impossibly beautiful and talented wife is being honoured as this year's icon. If I look half as good as her at 54, I'll be happy.

Iman with David Bowie, George Clooney and Julia Roberts at the Met Gala in 2008.

And here is a list of the people nominated for awards:

Womenswear Designer:

Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang, Donna Karan

My pick - Alexander Wang. So hard to choose between these three as they all showed great collections this year, but Wang is my favourite contemporary designer, he always gives me butterflies!

Menswear Designer:

Tom Ford, Michael Bastian, Rag & Bone(Marcus Wainwright & David Neville)

My pick - Tom Ford. What with all the buzz surrounding him following his much-hyped directorial debut as well as the subsequent exposure he's had with all his stars wearing him on the red carpet, how could he not win?

Accessories Designer:
Marc Jacobs, Alexis Bittar, Proenza Schouler (Jack McCullough & Lazaro Hernandez)

My pick - Proenza Schouler. So hard to choose as I also love Marc Jacobs, I just think it's Jack and Lazaro's year.

Swarovski Award for Womenswear:

Prabal Gurung, Joseph Altuzarra, Jason Wu

Swarovski Award for Menswear:

Patrik Ervell, Simon Spurr, Richard Chai

Swarovski Award for Accessories Designer:

Alexander Wang, Fenton/Fallon (Dana Lorenz), Eddie Borgo

My pick - Alexander Wang. His accessories are always amazingggg across the board; his bags, his shoes, and more recently his sunglasses, never ever disappoint. Love him.

More soon.

These are a few of my (new) favourite things. II

2010-03-12T11:30:00.001-08:00

Everyone on the internet and beyond has been banging on about it so I felt it deserved a mention. I have to admit I'm not a fan of the song as the lyrics seem a bit stupid, (definitely prefer Beyonce's 'Videophone') but the video is undoubtedly a masterpiece brimming with eccentric, hard-edged fashion. There are simply too many amazing outfits in the video to mention so you'll just have to watch for yourself below. Is it weird that it kinda made me want to try that look Gaga rocks with crosses of masking tape over my nipples? And I love Beyonce

with a fringe more than I could possibly say! Very chic.

As you probably gathered from the name of my blog, I'm all about beautiful shoes. I love heels as much as the next girl but when I see a pair of comfortable flats that can make just as much of a statement, then I'm sold. I saw these Commes des Garcons shoes featured in this month's British Vogue in black and white, and after some research I found these lovely pearly white ones that I've fallen in love with. How cute are the painted red toenails?! I'm desperate for a pair.

Commes des Garcons

For Spring/Summer I'm really excited about STATEMENT SHORTS. I saw the most beautiful floral silk pair from Marc Jacobs, the colours are amazing and vibrant, definitely a statement if ever I saw one. Dolce & Gabbana also showed some exciting florals for Spring. (In earlier blogs you can also see some decent high street florals that I found from Urban Outfitters and Topshop.)

Marc Jacobs

I've been looking for a new pair of denim short shorts as mine are becoming a bit too loveworn to get away with now. I really love this Topshop stars and stripes pair that I saw in Elle magazine's highstreet recommendations section. They don't seem to be available yet though so I guess I'll just have to wait.

Topshop

For a more subtle statement an unusual texture is also a good way to go, leather or velvet are new favourites of mine. You can find these at Alexa Chung for Madewell (see earlier blog) or Alexander Wang. I'm pretty sure the high street aren't too far behind so watch out for Topshop knockoffs if you don't have the necessary £300 for a pair of Wangs.

Alexander Wang

I really want a hat. I'm really in the mood for some kind of headpiece but hairbands look slightly silly on me with my current hairstyle (a drastic undercut a la Alice Dellal). I've been dreaming of the perfect black one, something betwixt a fedora and a trilby. I particularly loved the one atop Clemence Poesy's crown in the new issue of British Vogue.

However I don't have £230 to be spending on a hat right now so I'll keep looking. I used to have a similar one that I bought for a 5er in a vintage market so maybe I'll keep rummaging away and I'll be lucky enough to find another.

I've been searching for the perfect green nail varnish for ages now (plus St.Patrick's Day is coming up so it's the perfect excuse right?) and of course Chanel has the answer. They really do seem to be THE brand to look to for the next it-nail trend these days. I can't wait to get my hands on this beautiful jade colour, although from the looks of it I'll have to wait as it's sold out everywhere! (I'm told this 'Jade Rose' shade was all the rage on the catwalk too.)

I normally make a conscious effort to avoid big Hollywood blockbusters as they are usually unbearably predictable and never fail to disappoint. However, I made an exception for Tim Burton's latest masterpiece, Alice in Wonderland. I have to tell you now, it's amazing - sorry to ruin the surprise. He really took the original story and managed to adapt it seamlessly to create this whole new world without straying too far from, and ruining, the much-loved original, no mean feat. It was incredibly trippy, I opted for seeing it in a regular 2D cinema as opposed to 3D, I'm not sure I could have handled seeing the wise, shisha-smoking caterpillar or the creepy floating Cheshire cat in three dimensions. Mia Wasikowska (Alice) had some amazingly inventive dresses as she shrunk and grew and her iconic baby blue dress was forced to change accordingly - it felt like we were being shown a collection. Although saying that; it was Helena Bonham Carter's red queen and Johnny Depp's mad hatter who really stole the show for me, but then what else would you expect from a Tim Burton movie? So without giving too much away here's a link to the trailer (I can't put it on here, sorry). I definitely recommend you see the film for yourself.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeWsZ2b_pK4

I'm a big fan of underwear as outerwear and so I just had to share this with you. I'm so happy that cone bras are making a comeback! Not sure I'd ever be brave enough to actually wear one out but I think they're fantastic. Of course noone does them like Jean Paul Gaultier but I thought this was a lovely take on it.

Louise Goldin (picture from the April 2010 issue of Elle UK magazine)

Even though it's barely Spring/Summer, watching all of the Autumn/Winter collections recently has got me in the mood for cold weather fashion again. I'm really looking forward to wearing these next season:

Dr.Martens do UGGs! Well, not really, but pretty close. I am in love with these boots that have all the features of UGGs but in the classic, much more desirable, Dr.Martens shape. I couldn't think of anything more comfortable and I can't wait to get my hands on a pair (at £200 I may have to wait a little while..).

Another recent find that I've stumbled upon is cable knit leggings from American Apparel. My favourite items of clothing of late have been my oversized cable knit jumpers so to have that level of comfort on my legs would be unreal. I love the idea of having a dark grey or black pair just for being comfy and casual in on cold days, definitely a much nicer alternative to track pants. They also come in this lovely (very now) pastel shade, very suitable for the cold British Spring time.

More soon.