Showing posts with label designers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label designers. Show all posts

Friday, 26 August 2011

The Trend Report: Autumn/Winter 2011


I'm thrilled that parkas are making a return to the fashion scene, and this year they're going to be more luxurious than ever before; as thankfully designers have not compromised the value of design aesthetics when taking into account the practical need of outer-wear. Altuzarra leads the way this season, teaming parkas with heels and sequined gowns for eveningwear practical-luxe. But my fave has to be Thakoon's retro red and blue checked number.

Spots were popping up everywhere on the catwalks. Stella McCartney opted for sequin-like discs embroidered onto sheer tulle dresses, whereas Marc Jacobs covered his models head to toe in spots, including gloves, hats and hosiery. Invest in a spot print dress for the office a la Vena Cava or pick up a few spot themed accessories to ease your way into this trend.

For evening wear the emphasis was on borrowed-from-the-boys tuxedos. Yves Saint Laurent's came in white with nothing underneath, other designers feminised the look by adding sequins to the trousers or teaming a cream silk shirts with statement black chokers.

Thursday, 25 November 2010

Two are better than one

Started on the Chanel A/W 2010 catwalks, a penchant for doubling up on jewellery has spread like quick-fire. No matter what trend you're sporting, accessories speak volumes, and in the season of all things glittering and sparkling now is the time to add a pinch of maximalism to your look. Double up the dose of bracelets - one on each wrist (but always matching). The one rule: bracelets have to be big. Opt for sophisticated and gem like, a la Emily Blunt, to create the perfect glamorous look for a Christmas party. Alternatively, make like the Missoni catwalk and mix chrome cuffs with blanket knits, ribbed leggings and capes to create the perfect daytime layered look.


Thursday, 2 September 2010

The Emmy's 2010 - Best dressed

There were many a gorgeous and well dressed star at this year's Emmy Awards. But here's my pick of the very best dressed both on the red carpet and at the most glamorous after-show parties.

Mad Men star January Jones stunned in this shimmering sea blue satin gown. Teamed with black classic platforms, this Atelier Versace dress with fitted corset and train was the perfect amount of glamour, originality and sophistication for the event. Truly beautiful.

In a one-shouldered, floaty, lavender Christian Dior dress Emily Blunt ensured that all eyes were on her at this year's awards. This unusual colour choice showed off Emily's pale skin tone perfectly. And the cream sequined embellishment keeps the dress looking modern.
This floor-skimming, navy Oscar de la Renta gown had Glee's Lea Michele catching everyone's eye. The strapless, ruffled gown was full on extravagance and showed off Lea's figure to its best.

In a simple cut floor length gown, Troy actress Rose Bryn opted for classic style. Updated with a gold belt and straps, and a flash of flesh, this white Gucci dress stole the day.

Vampire Diaries actress Nina Dobrev was on trend in this beautiful nude, one shouldered lace gown. Accessorized with elegant drop earrings and a sophisticated up do, this Zuhair Murad creation screams effortless cool.

Anna Paquin opted for an original choice, when she wore this black and gold Alexander McQueen number. The accentuated shoulders and deep neckline added extra detail to the heavy embellishment. Teamed with gold bangles and killer black patent courts, Anna brought a youthful and creative spin to the event.

Friday, 27 August 2010

The cape deal...

To cape or not to cape, that is the question...

Capes were all over the Autumn/Winter 2010 catwalks, and with Chloe, Phillip Lim and Celine leading the way it's a sure thing they're going to be big news for fashion followers UK over.

The problem is, I'm not quite convinced by the whole cape thing. When capes first entered the fashion sphere five years, I had a brief but unsuccessful love affair with a cropped, cream military cape. It was lust at first site - the high collar was irresistible and the royal gold buttons and the wrap over detail instantly won me over. And at a high street price, there were no obstacles.


But the romance did not run smoothly. That New Year I went away to the country with my then-boyfriend and his friends. I proudly packed my fashion-forward cape, excited for its first real outing. The result - many mocking comments from the boys, and an inability to wear my beautiful cape without a red, flustered face. Men just do not understand the cape thing, and I can understand why.

Let's face it, capes are not practical. They restrict arm movement and make it rather difficult to carry a handbag. There is also a large risk of looking somewhat like a tent. But it has to be said, capes are so much cooler than the standard winter coat! There is something dramatic and bold about wearing one.


Certain rules do apply though. Stick to skinny trousers to ensure a slim silhouette on the bottom half. And if new to the cape world, start with simple and classic styles rather than the wild and adventurous options out there - one in the shape of a simple pea coat shouldn't be too daunting.

As for me... I think I've carried the scars of teasing boys long enough. Maybe this winter is the time to venture back into cape land...

Sunday, 28 February 2010

Style Crush: Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger just doesn't get it wrong. She is undoubtedly the Queen of the red carpet, showcasing quietly sophisticated gowns, often with a modern and quirky twist.



As with every woman there are looks she goes back to time and again - vintage inspired items, monochrome palettes and blush coloured ball gowns. But there is never any sense that we're seeing something we've been shown before; there is always something new and intriguing about each garment. This is the beauty of Diane's style - original, understated and utterly cool.



The key to her fashion success is intelligent accessorising. Diane keeps things simple - a thin belt or one statement bracelet paired with a chic box clutch is all she needs.

She deserves extra style points for her fearless use of colour - fuschia pink, mustard yellow, bright red and royal blue are amongst her recent style quests.







A favourite with designers Karl Lagerfeld and Roberto Cavalli, she is often spotted on the front row at Fashion week. Diane has no quandary when it comes to testing out the new season's biggest trends - the androgynous look, bodycon, one-shouldered dresses, boho, grunge, tailoring, prints, ruffles and pastels are just a few of the latest trends she has sported.








Yet with Ms Kruger there is no attention grabbing behaviour; the clothes are allowed to speak for themselves. And speak volumes they do. She has a natural flair for fashion; an ability to wear any trend, make it her own, and always looks incredible. Even the more outrageous designer gowns are worn with effortless ease. This is surely the making of a style icon.



Even Diane's make-up and hair is flawless. Smoky eyes and natural lips are her signature look for showbiz events, and her blond locks are often swept back into a loose but beautiful up-do - truly the work of a pro.

And she can pull off the perfect daytime look too. A real girl's girl, in summer Diane opts for a cute dress, and simple grey cardi, again with minimum accessories. And for winter, she hottens things up by teaming over-the-knee boots with a short checked dress.





Oh, Diane Kruger, how I love thee.