Search Results for “spring 2014

Your must-haves for spring 2014

Fashion month seems like such a long time ago, so we know that the trends presented on the spring/summer 2014 catwalks might not instantly come into your heads under pressure. You don’t need to trawl through the New York, London, Milan, and Paris archives to remind yourselves what to look out for in the shops and online when updating your wardrobes though… there are only eight pieces you need to guarantee a stylish spring. Here are your must-haves for the spring season: 1. A white shirt is a wardrobe staple whatever the season, but it’s practically a necessity for the upcoming spring/summer season – just ask Preen and Viktor and Rolf, among others. You can go plain for max versatility, but we can’t resist the embellished collar on this beauty. Sister Jane embellished blouse, £45 2. A floral dress in spring? Pretty much a given but there’s a reason floral dresses are the perfect springtime attire – you can’t go wrong with a standard floral dress. Layers of clothing and jewellery are heartily encouraged! New Look floral skater dress, £13 3. Wedges have been the answer to many a sartorial footwear question over the years, and we think these cork wedges have it all – height, comfort, versatility – add to shopping cart! Michael Kors Jolie beige suede cork wedges, £155 4. We were delighted when we saw full skirts on the latest Dior and Roksanda Ilincic catwalks – what’s not to love about this glamorous, voluminous and ultra feminine trend? A bright, bold full skirt will serve you well this spring! Coast Aralynn skirt, £115 5. Pastel is back with a vengeance this spring/summer season; make sure you’re getting in on the trend with some comfy yet chic pastel jeans. Perfect to dress up or down! Blumarine pastel pink […]

Read More

Spring 2014 makeup trends you can’t ignore!

The style-conscious can’t afford to miss out on this spring’s hottest makeup trends, which have already graced the catwalks and got the fashion world talking. There are interesting new styles to experiment with, as well as reinventions of the classics. Check out our favourite trends below, and start stacking up your cosmetics bag so you can be the first to work the latest looks. Glowing complexions Phillip Lim models covered up in oversized sunglasses during the show, but their bare-faced look also made an impact. Check out the close-up, behind-the-scenes images at Vogue, and you can see glowing complexions teamed with bushy brows and low-key makeup. House of Fraser have a perfect range of products that will help give an amazing complexion. The Illuminating Base and Highlighter Face Pen by Chanel, will allow you to get beautiful glowing skin. Using the Bobbi Brown Brow Kit will help to boost those brows and complete the fresh-faced, wide-eyed look. Neon-orange lips All the Rag and Bone SS14 models, seen here in Elle, were embracing colour pop in the form of neon-orange lips. Paired with neutral shades or a complementary turquoise, the look seemed surprisingly wearable. To experiment and find the perfect shade for you, try this MAC Pro Lip Palette, which features six gorgeous orange colours. A matte finish is a must, so make sure you blot your lipstick with a tissue and add a light coat of translucent powder before heading out. Unusual eye colour This season’s Prada catwalk saw models wearing winged eyeshadow in unusual shades. Violets, yellows and moss greens were applied; with darker shades creating wings and accentuating the shadow of the inner eye. Eyelids everywhere made a statement, with glitter, strong block navy and inky eyeliner also featuring prominently at fashion shows. Models, like those from Calvin […]

Read More

Streaker on the Dolce and Gabbana Spring 2014 menswear runway

And we thought streaking only happened at football games and drunken university parties! Yep, you read the title right, the Dolce and Gabbana spring 2014 menswear show was indeed a memorable one – for more than just the new collection – as a streaker managed to run down most of the runway before he was taken away by security guards. Madness! “While the designers come out for their bow and turn to walk backstage, from down the other end of the runway a guy rips off his clothes,” said GQ associate fashion ed Matt Sebra who witnessed the whole thing. “Full freeball. Says nothing anyone can understand and just kind of zig zags up the runway before the first security guard tries to cut him off. Maneuvers a little but turns back and that’s when four guards create a perimeter to block his junk and he’s taken away. Fashion community says ‘huh.’” Was this a welcome distraction for Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana (who have been sentenced to 20 months in jail for alleged tax evasion – a decision they are appealing!) or do you think it made things worse? It got people talking one way or another! And if you want a, um, closer look at the streaker in all his glory, you can check out the video below. Watch if you dare! [Fashionista]  

Read More

Michelle Williams returns for Louis Vuitton’s spring/summer 2014 ad campaign

Looks like Louis Vuitton knows when it’s onto a good thing, as Michelle Williams is back for another ad campaign! The gorgeous 33-year-old actress – and her enviably long stems and super-chic blonde pixie cut – are back for the Louis Vuitton spring/summer 2014 advertising campaign, and the message is pretty clear: go bright, or go home! (Actually you don’t have to go home if you aren’t feeling the brights, as Michelle has demonstrated that an understated  shade paired with simple jeans and a tee is a pretty killer combo too!) Michelle was photographed by Peter Lindbergh and styled by former Vogue Paris editor-in-chief Carine Roitfeld, and is showcasing some of the new additions to the Louis Vuitton handbag family, as well as the true classics, including the Lockit, the Capucines and the Alma. Although the bags are the clear stars of the campaign images, we have to give the props some appreciation too – we love how Michelle has shunned the ordinary chair and decided to rest on a bicycle and inside an LV trunk instead. That’s our girl! Click here to check out Michelle’s ad campaign for the Louis Vuitton autumn/winter 2013 collection, too.

Read More

First look: Suki Waterhouse’s Superga spring/summer 2014 ads

Suki Waterhouse’s debut ads for Italian trainer brand Superga are finally here, and she’s looking even more gorgeous than we could have ever expected. The 22-year-old style maven – and girlfriend to one very dreamy Bradley Cooper, may we add – is posing pretty in some of the brand’s finest trainers for the spring/summer 2014 ad campaign, which is based on Sprezzatura. Those not fluent in Italian may be unfamiliar with the term, but Sprezzatura is basically the art of looking good without actually trying; and we think Suki has that down to a tee! “Sprezzatura encompasses a certain nonchalance; an effortlessly casual grace that Italian fashion does best,” reads the press release. “Easily described as an artful dishevelment, the style needs not boast the thought and concept that has created an outfit, instead lending a modern interpretation to a timeless notion.” Once again, we reckon that’s Suki Waterhouse in a nutshell. We couldn’t think of a more perfect ad campaign star; do you love her debut ads as much as we do? Let us know your thoughts below!

Read More

6 Wearable Spring & Summer 2014 Trends We’re Loving!

Pastels Possibly this season’s biggest trend that is being seen all over is Pastel colours which are featured throughout the Damart Spring and summer collection. From mints to sugary pinks and pale lemons, this candy palette has injected a burst of colour into Damart’s casual range. The footwear range has also been given the pastel treatment with our light weight casual shoes where we offer a variety of pastel colours e.g. Bow trim moccasin in pale pink, slip on canvas styles, Coussin D’air (our brand) strap shoes as well as some of the Cushion Walk styles. Safari Damart is right on trend with its Safari inspired products sitting amongst Style and Detail in its catalogue. Colours such as camel and khaki as well as animal prints have been introduced to the smart collection for a stylish look. Incorporating this trend into a smart collection makes these pieces not only on trend for the spring summer season but easily transferable into early autumn winter. Monochrome This classic trend seen in Autumn and Winter 2013 has been given a spring summer edit to create a wearable summer look, perfect for getaways in the sun. This shows through Damart’s holiday shop section where black and white prints have been teamed with t-shirts and straw accessories for a chic beach look as well as Damart’s smart section of the catalogue with its key statement piece such as the printed blazer and matching pencil skirt. Prints Prints feature throughout the Spring and Summer 2014 range in all sections of the book with Florals, Aztec, Geometric and classic Animal prints in both smart and casual pieces. Some of these key on trend pieces include the Floral Jacket which is easy to dress up or down, the Mock Wrap dress which is designed to flatter figures and […]

Read More

Hunter unveils its ‘Another Wet Summer’ spring/summer 2014 ad campaign

The Hunter spring/summer 2014 ad campaign has just been released, and quite frankly, we’ve never wanted it to rain so much in our lives! Hunter wellies are pretty much the only footwear options for the rain and the mud (it’ll probably be easier to count the festival-goers without Hunter wellies) and it doesn’t look like their popularity is going to go down any time soon – especially with their debut at London Fashion Week this season and their newly released spring/summer 2014 ad. The ad – photographed by the very talented Viviane Sassen –  is rather aptly entitled Another Wet Summer, and features Matthew Holt, Charlotte Wiggins, Stephine Hall (and a horse) having a whale of a time getting wet at Montacute House in Somerset and Kiftsgate Manor in Gloucestershire and stars models. Hunter has been a well respected brand for over 160 years, but we think the appointment of Alasdhair Willis (husband to one Stella McCartney, don’tcha know) as creative director is going to do even bigger and better things for it. Watch this space!

Read More

Abbey Clancy’s Ultimo spring/summer 2014 pics unveiled

Last year we told you that Strictly Come Dancing 2013 winner and hot model Abbey Clancy had been named the brand new face of Ultimo; and now it’s time to check out some of her best (and probably raciest – you’re welcome, boys) pics from the ad campaign. Abbey can be seen striking some seriously seductive poses in some gorgeous, sexy Ultimo underwear; great inspiration for Valentine’s Day if you ask us! “Abbey looks incredible in our spring/summer campaign and embodies the Ultimo brand perfectly,” said the brand’s founder Michelle Mone. “She’s body-confident, beautiful and feminine – all the qualities associated with Ultimo. 2014 is going to be a momentous year for the brand and this is the perfect start. “The new Ultimo collection offers gorgeous lingerie for every occasion and I can’t wait for women try it. “We’ve been working tirelessly over the past year to improve our product range and fit – including our famous ‘OMG’ Plunge bra, which is now 50 per cent lighter – and I believe that Ultimo now offers the very best fit on the market.” There’s only one way to test that theory, and that’s heading to the shops and trying the pieces on ourselves. Ah, the things we do for “research”, eh?! [Daily Mail] 

Read More

Burberry taps new talent for spring/summer 2014 ad campaign

Looks like all of our top stories of the week are coming from Burberry! Just yesterday we announced that the first ever Burberry Beauty Box would be opening its doors in London’s Covent Garden, and today it’s time to take a look at the brand spanking new ad campaign featuring a host of new, young British faces. The stars of the Burberry spring/summer 2014 campaign are Jamie Campbell Bower, Leo Dobson, Malaika Firth, Jean Campbell, Matilda Lowther, Neelam Johal and Callum Ball. Make a note of these names and faces as we predict we will be hearing and seeing a lot more of them next year. Burberry has a knack for finding and choosing hot new talent, and it hasn’t let us down! Burberry has gone in a younger, fresher and gentler direction for the spring/summer 2014 ad campaign, but the pictures reflect the romantic tone of the new collection perfectly. What do you make of the ad campaign?

Read More

Cara Delevingne sizzles in La Perla spring/summer 2014 ad campaign

We know she loves nothing more than lounging around in her favourite onesie with barely-there make up, but Cara Delevingne can definitely pull sexy out the bag too. That was pretty much confirmed when we saw her strut her stuff on the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show catwalk earlier this month, but her new  ad campaign images for La Perla prove that she isn’t just a one-trick pony. Cara Delevingne is sizzling in the ad campaign images for the lingerie brand, showcasing some of the best and sexiest pieces La Perla has to offer while sporting luscious wavy hair and glaring into the camera with a seductive come hither look in her eyes. Definitely one to drive the boys wild! Cara was shot by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott under the artistic direction of Fabien Baron, and was joined in the spring/summer 2014 ad campaign by Malgosia Bela and Liu Wen. If this doesn’t make you want to head to the gym, work on those abs and save the pennies for some sexy lingerie to impress the man in your life, we don’t know what will!

Read More

Highlights from the Mulberry spring/summer 2014 press day

Yesterday we headed to one of our favourite spots in Kensington – the Mulberry showroom – for the spring/summer 2014 press day! If we had left the MFL office earlier, we would have run straight into Kate Middleton selling poppies at the tube station! Never mind, eh?! We got up close and personal with the new ready-to-wear collection. It consisted of fun florals, luxurious textures, perfectly executed tailoring, bright colours juxtaposed with subtler hues, and much more. Our favourite pieces included a pink striped top and skirt, a white floral dress, and a bright orange dress – what can we say, we love a bit of colour! Now the best bit: the bags! It was all about the double sidedness as far as the bags this spring/summer 2013 season were concerned. That means you can wear a white clutch bag one day and flip it over and wear the black version the next. Or you can totally unzip them and give one to your best friend for an incredible colour coordinated outing… just make sure she gives it back at the end of the night. Probably easier said than done! It wasn’t just about the clutch bags though – all our old favourites also came with a double sided design too – two times the space and ten times the fun! The rest of the accessories didn’t let us down either – belts, scarves, purses – you name it, Mulberry is all over it! Another stunning collection that hasn’t disappointed. Here are more of our highlights from the new-season collection:

Read More

Reflecting on London Fashion Week…(Spring/Summer 2014)

The hub of all excitable activity, and displaying a manner of dressing that even those residing across the Atlantic strongly envy (yes, those polished NYC queens), London is a melting pot of acceptance and crazy, annotated flower diagrams in the name of Christopher Kane. But given the shows are essentially work affairs, where buyers behind affluent retail names come to place hefty orders, and editors come to coo at what they’ll be instructing Testino to shoot in seven or so months’ time, was fashion week on point? Did the runway looks deliver and meet expectation? Here’s what we thought: Translatability Tom Ford’s show during London Fashion Week had us, for the first time, sitting up and thinking about how a shattered crystal dress arranged in a mosaic-like effect was ever going to appear on the red carpet. Or, would we see It mademoiselle Alexa Chung rocking a teardrop cut-out dress from Christopher Kane’s spring 2014 collection at some high profile shindig? Some of the clothes worked – like Emilio de la Morena’s relaxed-but-city-slick separates and even Topshop Unique’s impressive line-up of printed spaghetti strap dresses and curved, cropped shirts – when it came to mentally visualising them on ‘real’ people in the ‘real’ world, but the goth cyber chick at Mark Fast made it hard to maintain that focus. Out of touch? In a rather interesting piece rounding up the shows in London, Cathy Horyn made a very valuable point: “As I went around London, to places and streets filled with ordinary people, I had the sense, more than ever, that fashion here was taking place in vacuum. Do they care about Christopher Kane’s naïve drapes and twisted flower dresses? If the public doesn’t appear to be even remotely listening, whom are we talking to?” With street style running the gamut at […]

Read More

Dress to Impress at Home: 5 Ways to Show Off Your Spring Looks

If you’ve been anything like us during quarantine, you probably haven’t worn anything except sweatpants or leggings and your favorite baggy tee. Although we love being comfy while lounging at home just as much as the next person, it’s also nice to remember what it feels like to wear nice clothes and show off your favorite gold chain necklaces or new spring shoes. Try spicing things up one day by finding an excuse to break out some of your new spring looks. Spring Fashion Trends If you’re searching for fashion inspiration, look to the runway and you’ll find a variety of eclectic styles that you can expect to see people sporting this spring. We decided to highlight some of our favorites that stuck out this season to help you pull together a totally unique look. Chunky Jewelry For anyone who is already a fan of flashy but stylish gold chains, this trend will be easy to hop on board with. Many models this season have been rocking chunky necklaces, bracelets, and even earrings. Although we’ve seen this to be popular in women’s fashion, there are plenty of cool gold chains for men that will bring your outfit to the next level. Find a material that matches with your individual style—white or yellow gold or cheaper pieces made from brightly colored plastic or even clay.  The Disco Collar Okay, we’re super excited about this one—the long, flared-out disco collar on men’s shirts and jackets that give us serious John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever vibes. Many designers have been experimenting with this classic 70s and 80s look to bring a little bit of vintage back into our modern style. We highly recommend giving this look a go if you have a special event or a big night out that calls for […]

Read More

The Spring/Summer 2020 Fashion Trends We’ll Be Wearing

Yes, we’ve had an onslaught of storms. Yes, the rainfall seems like it’s never-ending. And yes, it’s bitterly cold…BUT, we’ve spied some daffodils starting to bloom. Which is one of the best telltale signs that spring is on its way. And while Fashion Week is in full swing and providing us with inspiration for autumn/winter 2020, naturally we’re still in the process of planning our wardrobes for spring.  So what can we expect for the new season ahead? Well, we have the usual floral prints to contend with. Obvious, but worth mentioning anyway. And thanks to designers including Balmain, Maison Margiela, and Dries Van Noten, polka dots are going to be everywhere, along with feminine tailoring, embroidery designs, exaggerated collars, bucket hats, and crochet to name a few.  Now, while there are some trends we’ll be steering clear of because let’s face it, we’re not supermodels and can’t pull off everything. Sigh. There are certain trends that we wouldn’t forgive ourselves for not trying. Ahead, we highlight the spring trends we’ll be wearing along with must-have pieces to complete the look.  WAISTCOATS  You’d be forgiven if every time you pictured a waistcoat you immediately thought of Kate Moss circa mid-2000s, in her famous signature shorts and knee-high boots. And while designers such as Anthony Vaccarello did send models down the catwalk in gorgeous tiny waistcoats, thankfully other versions of the waistcoat included a more grown-up, looser style as seen specifically at Armani and Hermes.  We11done wool-blend blazer available at Net-A-Porter  Double-breasted gilet available at Mango NEON 80’s trends always make a comeback every season in some shape or form. This spring/summer it’s back in full force in the way of fluorescent hues.  Vibrant, attention-grabbing, and fun, whether it’s a flirty lime green dress as seen at Valentino or head-to-toe electric […]

Read More

Get Inspired: Sarah Jessica Parker Wears The Ultimate Spring Combo

Blazer + floral dress + peep toe heels + crossbody bag = the ultimate spring outfit. And whom better to show us how it’s done than Sarah Jessica Parker? Attending the screening of hubby Matthew Broderick’s latest movie “To Dust” at the TriBeCa Film Festival, the 53-year-old actress wore a gorgeous red, white, pink and blue frock paired with the Ursula pump from her very own line of shoes and a lush velvet blazer. A metallic cross-body bag complemented the ensemble perfectly. Beauty wise, the actress stuck to her signature style – heavy eyeliner and nude lips with a touch of lip gloss. Are we loving SJP’s look ladies?

Read More

5 spring & summer 2015 handbags we’re lusting after!

Fashion month is well and truly over, and the spring/summer 2015 trends that the celebs will no doubt be rocking imminently have all made their way down the respective New York, London, Milan and Paris catwalks. The A-listers may be the first to step out in the new-season pieces, but we already have our favourites which we ourselves are one day hoping to be the proud owners of. Designer handbags have been particularly strong this season, and we definitely think that our first SS15 purchase is going to be for something small, leathery, and tote-ally gorgeous. Sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves… Here’s our top 5 SS15 handbags. Enjoy! Gucci. Gucci bags are iconic for a reason; if you want a handbag that’s instantly recognisable, a bag that will serve you well for decades to come, then this one answers all your prayers. We love the trans-seasonal brown colour and the fact that it’ll go with pretty much every outfit you can think of, but the strap that comes in the classic red and green Gucci stripe is the cherry on top that seals the deal for us. Give it to us now! Burberry. The brand never fails to disappoint when it comes to new and innovative lust-worthy designs, and the Burberry Bee bag is no exception. Cute, bright, practical… everything we want in a spring/summer bag and so much more! It comes in many cute and quirky colour combos, but there’s something about the feminine pink and yellow version that speaks – nay, screams – to us more than the rest. Coach. Coach was one of the first brands to debut its SS15 collection, and the memory of its bags stayed with us for the entirety of Fashion Month. Although we drooled over many of its bags – the classic […]

Read More

AW14 Jewellery Report: Spring Fair & LFW

Jewellery has immersed itself as an indispensable part of fashion; gone is the divide between costume jewellery and fine jewellery. More specifically, since the rise of the elaborate bib necklace and body jewellery, accessories are longer a decorative afterthought but a key feature of any outfit. This was all unquestionably apparent at the most recent Spring Fair trade show at the NEC back in February and also at London Fashion Week AW/14. Today, no outfit is complete without the perfect piece of jewellery and this has been no secret at recent trade exhibitions. But whilst on one hand we have bold and daring left-field designers such as KTZ adorning their catwalk models in shameless trimmings, we also have some tenacious classics creeping back in. Statement Pieces: KTZ, Simone Rocha & Jane Bowler At LFW, KTZ certainly made its mark with its powerful and authoritative accessories, along with Simone Rocha’s unashamed applications of large, gold adornments. Jane Bowler, who unveiled her collection at the London Fashion Week designer showrooms, addressed the audience with a new concept of how jewellery and garment design could merge into one discipline, using accessories to replace garments. Newcomer, Nadia Dafri made an impression at the February Spring Fair fashion show with a flamboyant and intimidating colourful collection which is sure to set light to the fashion scene. Or for something more accessible, Sarah Angold’s Topshop collection released to the public with a bang last year, featuring some eye catching and uber contemporary acrylic pieces. Floral Flutters for AW14 Surprisingly, florals have found a solid platform in AW14 designer collections. As a trend which flickers in and out of the limelight with fabrics, floral designs have never had much credence in the accessory design world. Floral prints, which can easily be dismissed as ‘juvenile’, ‘twee’ or ‘girly’, […]

Read More

Kate Moss for Stella McCartney’s dreamy autumn/winter 2014 ad campaign

Kate Moss is back for Stella McCartney, posing pretty for Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott for the designer’s autumn/winter 2014 ad campaign! Kate Moss hasn’t posed for Stella McCartney for five years, but the Croydon supermodel has come back bigger and better than ever for this latest ad… and that’s actually a bit of an understatement! This is Mossy’s seventh (yes seventh!) ad campaign for the British designer, and it features everything we love about both Kate and Stella! “Kate epitomizes the Stella McCartney woman and I wanted to capture her dreams and the moments we have shared over the years,” Stella McCartney said. “I wanted to escape into something surreal this season and fashion should make us dream, sometimes.” And nothing is quite as dreamy as Kate Moss in a series 0f starry, covetable Stella McCartney threads and the brand spanking new Cavendish bag! Welcome back, Kate! Will we see you in the Stella McCartney spring/summer 2015 ad campaign, too? Only time will tell! [Grazia]

Read More

2 ways to wear Warehouse’s lace spring coat

Living in Britain means that we have the age-old “coat or no coat” dilemma to deal with. It’s too warm to wear a bulky coat, but too cold to leave the house without anything to wrap up in. Plus, we want to make the most of the spring trends while we can so where does that leave us? We’ve found the answer, and it comes courtesy of this pale blue Warehouse lace coat. It looks like it came straight off a designer runway (the Burberry one if we’re being specific) but it costs a very purse-friendly £100. A real investment seeing as there are so any ways to wear it. Here are just two: Option 1 Whistles Lulu dress, £195 || Pollini patent leather pumps, £425 Option 2 L.K. Bennett white dress, £199 || New Look white pointed heels, £17.99 || Miss Selfridge chunky blue flower necklace, £25

Read More

7 hot summer shirts for 2014

When you start swooning over designs that have emerged off the catwalk, you realise that it is time to really revamp your wardrobe in readiness for spring and summer. These fresh summer inspired designs will transform you and can be worn on your holiday this summer with ease. The white collar is on a mission this summer but so are the florals: Rosie Assoulin’s swooning collectible summer indulgences We absolutely adore the latest from the rising star Rosie Assoulin who has delighted us with her billowing volumes of colour from the pop era with intricate details. They form a combination of what Grace Kelly would probably wear today: the effervescence of glamour, elegance with femininity. Try the white flowing cotton Poplin dress with easy sandals and for more ideas see Motilo. Balenciaga and the white collar The white collar button-down shirt is the necessary all rounder that compliments all the casual looks and creates a borrowed from my banker boyfriend proclamation. The reinvention of the basic crisp poplin is ideal for this time of year and so versatile. Christian Dior marks the white collar in elegance Hit the market wearing this lilac cotton shirt dress with exposed shoulders, tweaked in complimentary details at the waist, folded sleeves for a casualness that oozes chic. Match it up with a patent leather open chunky bag and ankle strapped sandals for the complete statement. Valentino’s open neck white collar panache Leave it to Valentino to emerge with a cape like shirt and collar that transforms itself into a day and night look for the spring and summer with fine detailing on the cuts and lower waist. Set it against a monochrome look in black silk trousers with a fringed black suede bag and open moccasin sandals for an adaptable summer vogue. Tod’s irrepressible […]

Read More

Victoria Beckham does springtime simplicity

What does one of the most stylish women in the world and one of the biggest fashion designers on the planet wear while going about her day to day business in London? A simple silk t-shirt and some powder blue Chloe Resort 2014 trousers, of course. Victoria Beckham is used to getting dressed up in skin-tight pencil skirts and dresses, but she’s also capable of donning more relaxed styles too. And we think this might just be as “relaxed” as it gets for the former Spice Girl. You probably won’t catch her in tracksuit bottoms and Ugg boots anytime soon, but the simplicity of this casual outfit works wonders, especially as the colour palette screams “springtime”. And in case you’re wondering… VB is in our fine Capital checking out the progress of her Dover Street store; not long to go ’til it opens! [Image] 

Read More

It may be spring but we’re already crushing on staple bags for AW14….(sigh!)

We appreciate that the sun has only just started to come out to play, signalling the arrival of spring, but the AW14 trends are already hitting the catwalks. Straight from the fashion week runways, we can confirm that the fashion forecast is bags, bags and more bags! For those of us who love our accessories, it all looks very promising. We don’t know about you but we can’t wait to bag myself a beauty this autumn. If you can’t wait to see what AW14 has in store, here are a few must haves bags that’ll fit in perfectly this upcoming season. Neutral Hues Every girls needs a tote bag, whether you use it for the office or just when you’re out shopping – either way we’ll always find a way to fill it. Plus, a plain, nude bag will never go out of style and this Ted Baker tote is made from high-quality material that thankfully won’t collapse on us! Ted Baker Naro Cross Hatch Tote Bag, £159.00, available online at Diffusion. Embellishment Galore During the party season we always need some glitz to put the perfect finishing touches to an outfit. However, this year don’t worry about finding the perfect jewellery – simply drape an embellished bag over your arm to draw attention and sparkle! Valentina The Lock shoulder bag, £1860, at Matches Fashion. The Classic Black. Every girls favourite colour and just like the little black dress, a classic black bag never goes out of style. What better way to wear a timeless piece than with an icon that is the Mulberry Bayswater. Bayswater Black Natural, £895, Mulberry.

Read More

Alesha Dixon embraces spring in bold House of Holland skater dress

No one would believe Alesha Dixon had given birth less than six months ago judging by her slim and slender figure displayed in the pic above, would they? The new yummy mummy – who gave birth to her adorable first child, Azura Sienna, back in October – looked positively delicious as she launched her brand new perfume Rose Quartz at the Fragrance Shop in London’s Westfield. The Britain’s Got Talent judge truly got into the spring spirit in a darling little skater dress from the House of Holland spring/summer 2014 collection, which she accessorised with gold sandals and a matching gold necklace. Oh, and who can forget that bold, statement hot pink lip and those voluminous ombre locks? We think Alesha looks absolutely flawless! [Image] 

Read More

Kate Hudson is spring-ready in Emilio Pucci

Spring is coming! At least Kate Hudson wants us to believe it is… and we’re definitely ok with that! Kate Hudson looked positively glowing as she attended the BVLGARI Presents ‘Decades of Glamour’ party hosted by Naomi Watts in West Hollywood yesterday, and chose the perfect outfit and colour combo to offset her enviable golden tan. We’re not at all jealous, honest! The actress (and face of Ann Taylor) wore an attention-grabbing plunging yellow blouse from the Emilio Pucci spring/summer 2014 collection, and accessorised with a matching white leather skirt, white pointy Christian Louboutin heels, and a dazzling clutch bag. The effortless, non-distracting up-do and the essential BVLGARI jewels completed her bold look perfectly! [Image] 

Read More

The People’s Choice Awards 2014: The best dressed!

And so it begins! The People’s Choice Awards officially marks the beginning of our favourite time of the year – awards season! It’s when you start to notice who will be dominating the red carpet over the coming weeks, not to mention who will be scooping up the shiny accolades. Yep, the People’s Choice Awards is the perfect ceremony to kick off the proceedings, and as a whole, we were quite impressed with what we saw on the all-important arrivals red carpet. Sandra Bullock, the lady we will be keeping our eye on throughout awards season, didn’t let us down as she gave us a bright, bold, print-tastic look thanks to her Peter Pilotto dress. Anna Faris went in the totally opposite direction, and went for chic, subtle and understated in a beaded Naeem Khan top and trouser combo hot off the spring/summer 2014 runway. Britney Spears also went for the nude theme (nude illusion, not Miley Cyrus naked) in a gorgeous Mikael D dress, while Jennifer Hudson also championed the minimal trend in a sleek white Kaufmanfranco dress. Take a look at our highlights from the People’s Choice Awards 2014 red carpet below and let us know who gets your best dressed vote. Jennifer Hudson in Kaufmanfranco Ana Faris in Naeem Khan Sandra Bullock in Peter Pilotto Naya Rivera in Michael Kors Nina Dobrev in Jenny Packham Allison Williams in David Koma Britney Spears in Mikael D Sarah Michelle Gellar in Sachin and Babi Jessica Alba in Jason Wu Kat Dennings in David Meister Beth Behrs in Giulietta Emily Deschanel in Max Azria   

Read More

Ropes and Ropes of Pearls: How Our Grandmas’ Jewelry is Our New Obsession

You have probably heard a dozen times that pearls are making a huge comeback. Thrown in a corner of shade and oblivion for a few years by diamonds and statement bling, pearls waited patiently to return in the spotlight and regain their former glory. If you ask some specialists, pearls never went out of fashion, not even for a second. However, they were left aside as ceremonial jewelry for weddings and sweet sixteen celebrations – demure staples of femininity but too quiet to shine as bright as modern accessories. But everything changed in 2014 and since then, pearls are the new diamonds in town, proving once again that Coco Chanel was a visionary and a woman way ahead of her times. The famous designer once said that women needed “ropes and ropes of pearls” and her words were repeated throughout history. But are we still living the Jackie O. times, or are we wearing pearls in big, bold designs to match our contemporary jewelry frenzy? Taking a look back, we can clearly see that pearls overcame their “demure” reputation and turned into veritable statement pieces all women are dying to wear. How Did Pearls Become So Popular? The answer to this question can be easily found on runways and last years’ fashion shows. As per usual, Chanel set the tone, the music and the scene for one of the boldest and most original comebacks in history. Chanel’s spring 2014 fashion show brought larger pearls in chunky, massive and high-end contemporary designs and the world followed. Soon, Karl Lagerfeld displayed massive pearls as well on the catwalk. Oscar de la Renta placed the pearls on booties, while Simone Rocha adorned everything with pearls, including knee socks. A year later, Honor and Lanvin sent a cascade of pearls on their runways during […]

Read More

Lea Seydoux vs. Alexa Chung…Who wore Miu Miu better?

Faced with two exceptionally well-dressed women, the decision to pick a winner is never easy. This week, making us tear our hair out (dramatic, we know) are Lea Seydoux and Alexa Chung in the same spring 2014 Miu Miu dress. On the one hand we have a chic Frenchie, who loves nothing more than oozing that je ne sai quoi with every red carpet look she sports; on the other, a Brit famed worldwide for her threw-it-together-and-walked-outta-the-house approach to dressing. Tough one, no? Getting first dibs on the pretty printed number was Lea, who wore it to the  EE Rising Star award nominations photo call back in January. Styled with embellished Miu Miu pumps, a simple, centre-parted hairdo and minimal make-up, Lea’s look made for striking eye-opener at the event. Alexa gave the dress its second outing, at the Miu Miu Women’s Tales 7th Edition – Spark & Light screening in February, in New York City. The long-limbed beauty naturally put her stamp on the ultra-feminine look, by accessorising with a snake-print bag and pointy black boots. A causal, low-slung pony tail and her signature liner-flicked eyes completed the look. So, whose look comes out top? Both ladies look exceptionally polished in their own ways, but we’re going to give this one to…wait for it…Alexa! Surprised? Well, Lea’s look may be the prim way to do a floral-print dress, but Alexa brings a certain daytime quality to her look; we can imagine styling it this way for the office, but we’d swap the salmon coloured bag for a teeny black shoulder bag. Thoughts? Whose look are you diggin’? [Images: Lea; Alexa]

Read More

Brandy vs. Nicki Minaj…Who wore Alexander McQueen better?

One dress, two girls. Yep, you know the drill. This week, at fashion loggerheads are singers Nicki Minaj and Brandy, who recently stepped out in an identical, black Alexander McQueen gown, from the spring 2014 collection. Featuring a cut-out design around the waist area, and a strap running across the top of the chest, the figure-skimming gown made for a demure evening look. First up to take to the red carpet in the gown was Brandy, when she attended the 45th NAACP Awards Non-Televised Awards Ceremony back in February. Opting for sleek tresses and minimal accessories – save for a clutch and cocktail ring – Brandy rounded of her look with strong evening-glam eyes and strappy sandals. But catching up with Brandy in the race for gown glory was rap queen Nicki Minaj, who wore the same look to the Billboard Awards earlier this month. Having recently debuted a more subdued side to her over-the-top Barbie persona, the singer gave us a very sultry red carpet look. Retro waves, two wrist cuffs and statement earrings provided the perfect finishing touches to Ms. Minaj’s most un-Barbie look, whilst make-up was kept extremely subtle. The one standout ‘feature,’ we have to say, was the clever display of underboob that peeped out from under the cut-out detail. Well, it’s Nicki… So, whose look takes the trophy this week? We’re giving this one to…Nicki! Everything, from the muted accessories to the expert flash of cleavage, works for this look. Surprising, we know, but Nicki’s nailed this one without taking it into trashy territory. Brandy looks great, too, but the look just doesn’t scream “WOW!” on her. Agree with our style verdict? Whose look wins for you [Images: Brandy; Nicki]

Read More

Rita Ora vs. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley…Who wore Gucci better?

Carrying off a Gucci number takes some skill; not only do you have to peak at glamazon levels, but everything down to the last accessory and stray hair strand matters! Making us pick between them this week, in the same Gucci gown, are Rita Ora and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. Both ladies took to their respective red carpets in this stunning black spring 2014 halter gown, with baby pink embellishment. Gucci looks always deiver the dare-to-bare factor, and there was plenty of that around with this look! First up to slip into the gown was Rosie, who wore it to the LACMA Art + Film Gala back in November 2013. Like a pro, the statuesque model let the gown do all the show-stopping, by keeping accessories and make-up pared down and hair swept away from her face. Catching up with Ms. H-W was another Brit. Singer Rita Ora put her own spin on the glam gown, when she made an appearance in it at the Weinstein company’s Post-BAFTA party back in February. Featuring her signature tousled bob and bright red lip, the ‘I Will Never Let You Down’ singer added her usual lashings of accessories. So, who wins in this war of the gowns? We’re giving this one to…wait for it…Rosie! This gown calls for a minimalist approach to styling, and Rita’s extra accessories and loud lip are unnecessary add-ons. Rosie owns this one by a fair few style miles. Agree? [Images: Rita; Rosie]

Read More

Primark is heading to America!

Fab news for bargain hunters across the pond, as it’s just been announced that Primark will be heading to America. Primark will open its first ever US store in Boston in Massachusetts, with a 70,000 sq-ft shop that’s due to be ready by the end of 2015. Just a year and a bit to wait, which isn’t really that long at all when you think about it. “After extensive research, it has been decided to take the Primark concept to consumers in the USA,” said George Weston, chief executive of Associated British Foods – the owners of Primark. “We think we have as differentiated and attractive a proposition in the US as we have in continental Europe and the British Isles. We think we have something special to offer.” Taking over America is no easy task, as Marks & Spencer, WH Smith, Sainsbury’s and Tesco have discovered. However, we are confident Primark will follow in the footsteps of Topshop and Ted Baker and really flourish in the US market. After all, who doesn’t want fabulously fashionable pieces at super affordable prices? [Guardian] [Images]

Read More

Emma Roberts vs. Kate Upton…Who wore Fendi better?

Vying for our attention this week, in two red-hot (literally) looks, are Emma Roberts and Kate Upton, who both sported a striking red mini dress from the Fendi spring 2014 collection. The gorgeous dress features a motif-style print, with a fitted waist and subtle statement shoulder; marking it as the perfect LRD (Little Red Dress) in our books. And getting first dibs on this pretty number was Emma Roberts, who opted for said dress at the 2014 Vanity Fair Oscar party. Going all matchy-matchy on us, Emma paired the dress with red Brian Atwood pumps, a crimson red lip and a perfectly textured, sharply side-parted bob. A silver mini box clutch and delicate-looking cocktail jewellery completed the look. But catching up with Julia Roberts’ niece in the style stakes was Kate Upton, who took to the red carpet for the German premiere of her latest movie, The Other Woman, at Mathaeser Filmpalast in Munich, last week. Fifties-inspired pin-up rolls, red lips and strong eyes perfectly rounded off Kate’s look, while she opted for nude pumps and went bag-free. So, whose look wins for you? Both ladies clearly brought their A-game, but we’re going with Emma on this one! Instead of being too much, her all-red approach is actually a winning combination. After all, given her Hollywood credentials, we wouldn’t expect anything less! [Images: Emma; Kate]

Read More

Scarlett Johansson launches Dazed and Confused’s redesign with two sensational covers

Scarlett Johansson is back in our lives, and we could’t be happier about it! The gorgeous actress is on not one but two covers of the new Dazed and Confused issue (the mag has actually had a bit of a re-design too, so we really do mean new!) sporting two very different – but equally beautiful – looks in the process. ScarJo can make pretty much anything work, can’t she? She was shot by Benjamin Alexander Huseby and is sporting a sleek and sexy leather jacket with a fierce red pout in one image, while she’s looking a lot more girl next door in Saint Laurent in the other one. Which one is your favourite? Scarlett’s interview is not to be missed either; we especially loved what she had to say about how her sexy womanly curves have been objectified… “How could I wake up every day and be a normal person if I was completely aware that my image was being manipulated on a global platform,” she said. “How could I sleep? You have to have peace of mind. You’ve got to be able to protect those things. How else could you exist? You’d go crazy, anybody would go crazy …” Do you agree with her? You can read the rest of her interview in the Spring 2014 issue of Dazed and Confused, out here in the UK tomorrow and in the States on Monday.

Read More

From London to Paris and Beyond: A Fashion Week Beauty Trend Report

It may be the dead of winter in most locations north of the Equator, but Fashion Week signals the beginning of spring for industry insiders and for fashion-savvy females everywhere. Held in New York City, Milan, London and Paris, Fashion Week provides top-level fashion houses and up-and-coming designers with the opportunity to show off their best efforts in anticipating the warmer temps to come. All across Europe as well as in the Big Apple, women eagerly mark Fashion Week on their calendars each year. Most of the looks on display on the runways during Fashion Week will never make it past couture shops catering to exclusive clienteles. Nonetheless, affordable interpretations of the most accessible pieces will make their way to certain online specialists that cater to women whose budgets may be limited but who nonetheless wish to maintain a sense of style. Some of the most anticipated trends for 2014 will be familiar to many; the classic look that never goes out of fashion is all the rage. Florals, of Course What is spring without flowers? An explosion of floral patterns will be everywhere, from flowing skirts to chic tops peeking out from beneath tailored blazers. Large, playful floral patterns will be found on dresses meant for garden parties and more casual occasions. More sedate florals will make their way to office-worthy separates. Even daytime weddings will be blessed with colorful blooms on bridesmaids’ dresses and sprinkled amongst frocks worn by guests. Solids that pick up one or more colors found among floral patterns are a cant-miss match for fashion-conscious but somewhat cautious women. Bolder females will mix and match florals and prints or florals and neutrals. To pull off this somewhat-daring look, at least one of the contrasting patterns should be somewhat more subdued to avoid overwhelming onlookers with […]

Read More

Kate Mara is Worst Dressed of the Week in Prada

We feel pretty blah when a good dress gone bad situation occurs. Like in this instance, when Kate Mara decided to bring a little Prada spring 2014 glory to the red carpet at the ‘House Of Cards’ season two screening in L.A. Prada, ALL HAIL Prada! That’s the usual way to welcome a look from Lady Miuccia, as it’s always so breathtaking, but Kate’s embellished dress featuring a hyper face motif just missed the mark. The thigh-grazing dress features heavy black embellishment, with a cut-away section for extra cleavage breathing space (well, that’s what we call it). Styled with dainty ankle-strap sandals and slick, side-swept hair, Kate completed her look with sultry eyes, nude lips and a matching Prada clutch. The accessories, hair and make-up are on point, but the lack of dress length, extra boob-show and a hefty dose of look-at-me sequin and bead adornment are too much to throw into one dress. Maybe a longer hemline, or doing away with the cut-out detail could rescue this look, but as it stands, it’s a miss for us. Do you think a toned down version of this look could’ve worked? [Image]

Read More

Poppy Delevingne is Worst Dressed of the Week in Louis Vuitton

With red carpet style getting ever more sophisticated – and not in a boring way – its becoming tougher to track down a look that makes us say “meh.” However, one particular look always slips the oh-so-pretty net, landing straight in our Worst Dressed pile. And, this week it seems one of the Delevingne sisters may have momentarily downgraded their style-setter status, with a rather odd gown. Poppy Delevingne took to the black red carpet at the 2014 amFAR Gala earlier this week, and we’re not sure we’re with her on this sartorial slip-up. Sporting a rather bewitching black gown from the Louis Vuitton spring 2014 collection, Poppy ensured all eyes were on her. Featuring a sheer body with intricate bead embellishment, Poppy completed the look with a super-high ponytail and an aptly dark lip. A rather bulky bucket bag finished her evening effort. There’s just something about this outfit that’s a little mismatched; it’s one of those looks that works better on the runway, complete with Marc Jacobs-esque grandeur. The hair harks back to the 90s, while the bag is too large for a formal evening affair. A more sophisticated hairdo and a tiny box clutch could salvage this look, but as it stands, it’s a let down from the Delevingne camp. Agree with our style verdict? What do you think of Poppy’s look? [Image]

Read More

Imogen Poots is Worst Dressed of the Week in Louis Vuitton

In a week that gave us great looks, some no so great ones crept onto the red carpet, too. The offender in question: Imogen Poots in Louis Vuitton at the New York screening of her latest movie, That Awkward Moment. The actress opted for a top-to-toe look for the spring 2014 collection, including an embellished LBD with cut-out waist detail, and tights covered in Stephen Sprouse-style graffiti. Although the runway look featured a halter dress, Imogen opted for a deep scoop neck style, rounding off her look with platform sandals and a rather peculiar hair do… Make-up was kept simple, accentuated only by heavily kohled eyes and a slick of black nail colour, which lent to a grungy feel. As for the hair, we’re not too sure what Imogen’s styling team had in mind! The intentionally messy down-do looks a little too unkempt for our liking and those bangs aren’t doing any favours to neaten up the look, either. This outfit could certainly have done without the footless tights, and a more refined hairstyle would’ve complemented the dress’s ornate, evening feel. What do you think? Does this look work? [Image]

Read More

Spotlight on Roksanda Ilincic…

Having witnessed her epic London Fashion Week catwalk shows first hand over the years, we can confirm that Roksanda Ilincic definitely doesn’t do things by halves. So, when the designer’s brand spanking new pre-spring 2014 swimwear collection launched, we knew we would be in for a treat even before setting eyes on it. And, now that we have the stunning images of the products to look at in all their glory, we know that we weren’t wrong with our assumption. In fact, Roksanda Ilincic seems to outdo herself season after season, which is why she remains to be one of our favourite designers on the London Fashion Week schedule. Roksanda Ilincic never shies away from bold colours, and we’re pleased that her signature love of pairing vivid shades and patterns together has remained for her new season swimwear collection. She knows what us girls look for in a swimsuit; after all, who wants to sit on a beach or by the pool and blend into the background? If you work hard to earn you holiday money to pay for the luxury break, and even harder in the gym to get your bikini body in tip top shape, then you definitely don’t want to be upstaged. And wearing one of Roksanda’s designers, in particular one of the pieces from the new collection, will guarantee that that doesn’t happen. The collection is comprised of attention-grabbing onepieces, which is great for the body conscious holiday makers, although probably not the best for tanners who want to sun their midriffs. But if you want to look like a vintage goddess as you sit in the shade sipping your cocktail and flicking through the latest issue of Vogue, then this collection is for you! The coral check trinity swimsuit will be particular popular with the […]

Read More

Anna Wintour is Worst Dressed of the Week in Prada

We’re looking over our shoulders as we write this, in case, y’know, Anna’s style army is hunting us down. That’s Anna Wintour, in case you were wondering. Spotted in what may become a Worst Dressed Of The Year contender pretty soon, Madame Wintour took to the red carpet for the season three premiere of ‘Girls’ earlier this week, in a Prada Spring 2014 fur coat. But this wasn’t any old coat. No. Painted boldly with a woman’s portrait, the snug cover-up was perfect for battling the New York City deep freeze, but Anna’s overall styling left us in a *facepalm* pose for some time. Paired with an even longer skirt (what?!) and knee-high leather boots (no Manolos? Where are the Manolos? Bring back the Manolos!), Anna’s styling went the complete opposite way to the runway-ready, easier on the eye look. Sporting her signature bob and stern semi-smile, the American Vogue E-I-C decided to add some extra oomph to the “eughh” factor by adding a peculiar looking scarf to the mix. Yes, we get that you wanted to chill-block, Anna, but this outfit just screams “NO!” Pull up the skirt hem and ditch the scarf, and you might have a winning look on your hands, but this time, you’re so not in vogue, Anna. [Image]

Read More

Cara Delevingne and some animal friends are back for Mulberry’s SS14 ad campaign

She opened the show during London Fashion Week in September last year, so it doesn’t surprise us to see Miss Cara Delevingne return for the new Mulberry collection for the brand’s spring/summer 2014 ad campaign. Cara Delevingne isn’t the only one with a starring role in the ads though, as she is sharing the spotlight withy some of her adorable animal friends; a tortoise named Pukka, a cockatoo called Spud and a pony known as Dusty. The ads were shot by Tim Walker under the artistic direction of Cooke Newhouse “The spring 2014 campaign was a beautiful but naughty tea party with Cara and her ark of animals — the perfect Mulberry moment,” Cooke commented. “They didn’t have the best table manners, but Cara was very forgiving.” Well, you would be too. How could anyone stay mad at those adorable little faces? A tea party with animals and the new Mulberry collection sounds like our idea of heaven; well done Mulberry! [Grazia] 

Read More

Kristen Bell is Worst Dressed of the Week in Sachin + Babi

Another week, another outfit that amazes us for all the wrong reasons, of course! Seems Kristen Bell’s stylist needs a lesson or two in the art of mastering oversize dressing, because the job on Kristen hasn’t worked! Sporting a Sachin + Babi matching A-line skirt and top ensemble to the ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’ Expansion Pack Mobile Game Launch earlier this week, Kristen appeared a little, well, swallowed up. The look from the spring 2014 collection did no favours for Kristen’s petite frame, as both the floaty skirt and boxy top battled it out for body-swamping attention. We love the striking, scattered print and the electric blue clutch and suede ASOS heels, not forgetting Kristen’s sleek locks and soft make-up. But that outfit just isn’t doing anything to please our fashion hungry peepers. If the top was worn with skinny leather trousers and pointed courts, our opinion would probably be different. Or, if the pretty skirt was worn with a fitted black bustier top, and styled with the same accessories as this look, we’d certainly be swayed. But, in its current guise, this look is going in the never-repeat-again pile, pronto! What are your thoughts on Kristen’s Sachin + Babi look? [Image]

Read More

Lizzy Caplan is Worst Dressed of the Week in Reem Acra

We’re usually convinced by first sight of an LBD, no matter what form it takes. But, this week, we’re not so pleased. Lizzy Caplan slipped into a Spring 2014 Reem Acra dress at the Saban Community Clinic 37th Annual Benefit Gala earlier this week, and we’re just not diggin’ the red carpet effort. The Masters of Sex star wore a black, knee-length dress embellished with sequins and cape-like sleeves. Lizzy accessorised with a mini box clutch and cross-strap Aldo sandals, and finished off with a slick of eyeliner and soft pink lips. Side-swept bangs and a glossy, elongated bob added the final touch. We love the make-up, the hair and the accessories, but the cape-like sleeves aren’t so flattering. The dress’s high neckline warrants a wispy updo, unlike her sleek locks, which seem to clutter the overall look. An LBD, if styled the right way, can be the single most flattering item of clothing in any wardrobe. But on this occasion, Lizzy’s look just didn’t recreate that classic magic. Our rule to owning your LBD appearance: keep it fuss-free. [Image]

Read More

Bella Thorne vs. Kasey Musgraves…Who wore Blumarine better?

Another week, another frock-off between the stars! This week, we’re dissecting one of the more delicate trends taking the red carpet by storm – the sheer dress. Bella Thorne and Kasey Musgraves recently stepped out in the same sheer spring 2014 Blumarine dress, and, well, we had to comment! Kacey was the first to give the beautifully whimsical dress its red carpet debut at the CMA Awards, earlier this month. Styled with a nude crystal clutch and her tumbling locks worn in glossy curls, the singer looked every inch like red carpet royalty. Second in line to slip into the Blumarine dress was actress Bella Thorne, who wore said dress to the Los Angeles premiere of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. Opting to go accessory-free, Bella styled her hair in a braided updo with loose, face-framing tendrils, and soft make-up. Sheer dresses are challenge to pull off, as they can be draining on the wearer’s complexion, but how well did these ladies fare? Given the sweet nature of the dress, were totally digging Bella’s complementary hair style, but there’s something about Kasey’s glossy curls and clutch that finish off her look with finesse, so she takes this week’s fash-off champ title! Agree with our style verdict? Whose look do you prefer?

Read More

London Fashion Week SS14 Day 5 highlights

London Fashion Week may be over for another season, leaving us dreaming about next summer, but it’s onto Milan and Paris! So, to keep the London style spirit alive a little bit longer, here are our highlights from the final day of fashion fun: Thomas Tait Practicality is never lost on some in the fashion world, and CSM-trained designer Thomas Tait is one who never leaves behind is original vision. Although the colours on the runway for next season have served as palate cleansers, Tait’s angelic whites were too luminous to miss. Clean, fluid dresses, tank tops boxy jackets and were crossed with carefully positioned embellishments in the form of vividly coloured panels and wisps of feathers, but the originality of his hard working aesthetic, those any- weather-tackling, utilitarian jackets was not lost. Tait fans were surely not disappointed. Ong-Oaj Paraim Another one to watch from budding pool of emerging fashion talent this season, we loved Ong-Oaj Pairam’s debut offerings – inspired by Gertie, from Stephen Spielberg’s blockbuster,  E.T. – at Fashion Scout. Vague imprints of yolk-centred flowers were sprayed across billowing maxi dresses, while the flowers came to life in 3D form on a patent white skirt. A patent-sleeved cropped jacket with metallic checker board body was paired with leather shorts in a foamy cappuccino hue, and hair was coiffed to the tune of tea dress swishing, fashion-loving, Fifties housewife. Cinched waists were high on the agenda, with plenty of belting and body contouring dresses to boots, and a broken down Chinese calligraphic-style print in red and blue, neatly ruled out on a sheer collared shirt and high-waisted shorts. A fantastic introduction to his vision and style ability, this ex-Proenza Schouler assistant is sure to stay on our runway radar. Simone Rocha She’s fast climbed the ranks to become one […]

Read More

The (un)importance of the skinny male model

Desensitised to seeing otherworldly bodies stretched across the pages of our favourite glossies, mooching on the size zero debate doesn’t really illicit the same reaction it used to. Media, advertising and popular culture all promote the ‘ideal’ physique, leaving many women so baffled by the (lack of) choice, that when a new(ish) target arrives on the fashion scene, we’re a little oblivious to its reception. Continuing to gallop ahead at frightening speed on his high (end) horse, Mr. Hedi Slimane decidedly caused a stir during the menswear spring 2014 shows. Casting a range of near-malnourished, almost elongated elfin-looking boys caused for much heated debate this week, with noted writer Tim Blanks of Style.com dubbing the Saint Laurent line-up as ‘wasp-waisted, shrunken-chested boy band members‘, suffering from the famed rock ‘n’ roll ‘appetite deprivation.’ Alluding, almost, to the emaciated bodies of bygone rock stars, with his most recent (distant) muses being found in the likes of sweaty, failed public bodies such as Pete Doherty and Blake Fielder-Civil, it almost appears as though Slimane doesn’t see past a 24 inch waist when he takes to the drawing board with those skinny trews. The male models looked in need of a hearty meal, or three, but judging by the backlash to his choice of physique for the show, Hedi’s the winner here. Generating such hype for his latest collection by taking a fashion taboo and effectively toying with it to his heart’s content, Hedi almost forces us to ignore the real underlying issue here: the masculine side of the size zero debate. It’s not just the girls with shrunken waists, y’know. Criticised for sticking to his signature but dated drainpipe silhouette, the emphasis that critics have placed on his choices for this collection distract us from the fact that the boys are too […]

Read More

Fashion Charts: What’s going up and what’s coming down this month

Up The bomber jacket: The hit summer cover-up, we’re digging the bomber jacket for its endless styling opportunities. Continuing fashion’s love affair with the sport luxe trend, we’re wearing ours with skinny jeans and a luxe tee by day, and statement earring and a sexy pencil skirt by night. Knuckle-nail rings: From Balenciaga’s lusted-after gold versions to pocket-pleasing high-street alternatives on the high street, knuckle rings have evolved into the next best thing: knuckle-nail rings, as seen on the Chanel Fall Couture 2013 runway. Yeah, couture on your nails is a thing, according to Kaiser Karl. Expensive baby shoes: With a ‘female hustler’ and the ‘king of hip hop’ for parents, you’re expected to have a more than average upbringing. Her Majesty, Blue Ivy Carter, has her own pair of TOM FORD heels. Yes, TOM FORD. Downsized to tot proportions, and modelled by her bootylicious mum. In other news, the world’s first billionaire couple reportedly splashed out a whopping (modest by Jay-B standards) $7,500 on presents for Baby Kimye, including a pair of Christian Dior booties. Moss mania: Although she’s been everywhere since being discovered at the tender age of 14, Kate Moss continues to rule everything, everywhere. From taking over the Stuart Weitzman and Versace AW13 campaigns to teaming up with Carphone Warehouse on a new fashion-tech accessories line and going under the hammer (sort of) at Christie’s. Budget Alaia’s (well, kind of): We’ve been drooling over the real deal, and promptly heading to Zara to snap up the pocket-friendly version! We’re in love with complex, lace up sandals that look like a lot of hard work to slip into, but once you’ve got them on, there’s no coming off. Down Over-the-top underdressing: Oh, Rihanna. Bad, bad Rihanna. Rocking up to Chanel Couture (!) in nothing more than a […]

Read More

Lea Michele is writing her own memoir, Brunette Ambition

Glee’s leading lady (and the owner of some seriously large and impressive pipes) Lea Michele is writing her very own memoir, rather aptly titled Brunette Ambition. We couldn’t think of a better title if we tried! This isn’t just any celeb memoir though, oh no – it will also double up as a style guide, and also detail how others can achieve their dreams in the same way Lea did. “There wasn’t a guidebook when I was growing up, that detailed everything I needed to do, and know, to get to where I am today,” Lea said. “Brunette Ambition is not a how-to-make-it-in-show-business book, but a guide to harnessing tenacity, passion, enthusiasm, and hard work to make your dreams come true.” The tome will reportedly be published by Harmony Books, and will hit the shelves in spring 2014. Exciting times! [Glamour] 

Read More
Top Fashion Designers

Top 50 Fashion Designers In The World

Ever wondered who the top 50 fashion designers in the world are? Well, wonder no more. We’ve put together a list most famous fashion designers from around the globe. From past icons to current trailblazers who are setting the trends right now, here’s a comprehensive deep dive into the best fashion designers without whom the fashion industry just wouldn’t be the same. 1. Coco Chanel If there’s one iconic fashion designer who’s influenced the industry more than any other, it’s definitely Coco Chanel. She brought something new to the table, freeing women from the restrictions of frills and corsets, instead offering up simple, comfortable styles. And today, more than 50 years after her passing, her influence is still felt. Coco Chanel’s early life wasn’t an easy one, marked by tragedy and hardship. Her mother passed away when she was young, and she and her siblings had to be raised at an orphanage. Despite everything, Chanel was determined to make a name for herself in the world. Her designs stood out from the crowd, effortless and refined. She transformed fabrics that were traditionally associated with men’s clothing, like tweed and jersey, into chic, comfy pieces for women. The late designer will always be remembered for her creation of the little black dress, which is still a wardrobe staple for many. Chanel also branched out into the fragrance industry, launching her famous Chanel No. 5 perfume in 1921. She was a trendsetter in more ways than one, using groundbreaking marketing techniques to promote her work. And even now, you can spot her signature CC logo anywhere. 2. Giorgio Armani Giorgio Armani is a name that screams luxury and style, and this Italian designer has been a prominent figure in fashion since the 70s. Born in Piacenza, Italy, in 1934, Armani initially studied […]

Read More

How To Make Sure Your Garden Is Ready For Summer

As summer approaches, it’s time to get your garden ready for the longer days and warmer temperatures. From lawn care to plant selection, there are several steps you can take to ensure your garden is in prime condition for the season of barbecues, sunbathing, and enjoying the outdoors. Choose the Right Plants Summer is a great time to introduce new plants to your garden. Choose a variety of plants that thrive in summer conditions, such as drought-tolerant perennials, vibrant annuals, and hardy shrubs. You can find a wide variety of shrubs from The Tree Center that are suitable for summer planting. These can add color, texture, and structure to your garden, making it more appealing and vibrant throughout the season. Lawn Care A well-maintained lawn can make a significant difference to your garden’s appearance. Start by mowing your lawn regularly, but avoid cutting it too short as this can stress the grass and make it more susceptible to drought. Also, water your lawn deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth, making your lawn more drought-resistant. Pruning and Mulching Prune spring-flowering shrubs after they have bloomed to maintain their shape and encourage new growth. Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching not only helps your plants stay healthy but also gives your garden a neat, finished appearance. Pest Control With the arrival of summer comes the potential for increased pest activity. Regularly check your plants for signs of pests and diseases and treat them as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading. Consider using organic pest control methods to keep your garden healthy and to protect beneficial insects and wildlife. Watering Regular watering is crucial during the summer months. Water your plants early in the morning […]

Read More

An Ultimate Guide To Dressing Your Hourglass Body Shape

 So, you’ve got an hourglass figure, huh? Lucky you! This is one of the least common body shapes making it extremely sought after. And when it comes to famous hourglass figure icons, there’s no shortage of stunning examples. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and remember Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe and Sophia Loren, who epitomized the classic hourglass shape and always dressed to impress. Fast forward to today, and we’ve got some more contemporary celebs flaunting their beautiful curves. Think Christina Hendricks, Dita Von Teese, Kim Kardashian, Scarlett Johansson, Salma Hayek, and Jennifer Lopez… Now we’re guessing you clicked on this article because you want to know how to dress for your body. And we also know dressing an hourglass can be a bit intimidating…That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you every step of the way! First we’ll start by identifying if you truly have an hourglass body or if you’re more of an inverted triangle (hey, both gorgeous shapes!) before diving into the styling tips and tricks you need to show off your upper body, cinch in that waist, and flaunt your feminine curves. Definition of the hourglass body shape An hourglass silhouette is all about curves in the right places, a fuller bust and hips, petite waist, plus wider shoulders for true symmetry. It’s common to mistake this shape for the inverted triangle or rectangle. How can you tell them apart? Easy! The key difference is the balance between the upper and lower body. An hourglass shape has equal proportions, while inverted triangles have wider shoulders and rectangles have less defined curves. How to tell if you have an hourglass figure If you want to be absolutely sure you’ve got an hourglass body shape, grab a measuring tape and note down your bust and hip measurements. […]

Read More

Match or Clash: Choosing a Color Palette for Your Outfit and Accessories

While we all love the idea of a color-coordinated capsule closet that follows the perfect palette with no compromise, we all love colors outside of our chosen palette and we should be able to easily embrace them! Because we all have color preferences that fall outside of any given palette, we recommend that instead of creating a color-coordinated capsule closet, that you have fun and show off your fashion skills by learning how to integrate any color you’re loving on at the moment into any outfit by making per-outfit palettes around them. You may have just bought some colorful and cute sandals for women in anticipation of summer or you may have a pretty new green blouse for a garden party. But if you want to make sure that you do them justice and avoid a jarring clash of colors, we’re here to show you how it’s done! Categorizing Colors  Building your outfit on a category of colors will help guide you through your closet and will be the best way to avoid a clash. Always consider starting off with a category that covers a wide range of colors like cool tones, warm tones, jewel tones, pastels or brights! Once you’ve found a compelling category, picking specific colors and shades within it will depend on what you’re dressing for and sometimes even where or what they will be used for within the ensemble. (For instance, as a base color or as an accent color — but we’ll get into that next!) No matter what, picking your palette should be easier after this step! Pick the Base Color(s) of Your Outfit Your base colors will normally be neutrals, and will normally coincide with the colors that you choose when you’re buying essentials. These are colors that transcend trends, seasons and time […]

Read More