Search Results for “x factor

Inspirational vs. Inane: Is the lure of the luxury good worth dreaming about?

If recent research is anything to go by, then the luxury goods industry is booming. Booming beyond cultural and financial borders; letting the emerging economies ride the Prada-lined wave of upscale consumerism, and shaking up the belief that the recession has been a turn off for spend-aholics. From Chopard to Chanel Couture and Piaget to Burberry; luxury expenditure hasn’t slowed down, and we’ve got China to thank for that, amongst newer markets such as Malaysia and India. But does the hike in highly priced goods being snapped up justify the production of what we here at MFL HQ like to call The Super Shopper’s Set? Point in case: this week’s super-spend wish list add-ons: Ray Ban’s £2,893 Aviator sunglasses (below) and, wait for it, the £70,000 platinum stilettos by House of Borgezie (pictured above). Items many of us don’t flinch at the idea of dropping a hot £100+ bomb on, and ones that are often our most prized possessions. If you’re not already gawking at these price tags in utter disbelief, we’ll describe the items in a little more detail. Said sunnies aren’t your average hide behinds, but, in fact, rimmed with an £18ct yellow gold frame. Not only that, but, only 1,200 have been put into production, further upping the exclusivity factor. Heels are the holy grail of a woman’s daily get-up (don’t deny it, you loafer-shod liars), and justifying a Jimmy Choo splurge is, often, a necessity. But what if you suddenly wanted a shoedrobe to rival Tamara Ecclestone’s? You’d be spoilt for choice trotting around in the custom-made Cleopatra stilettos, which can be crafted in platinum or 18ct white or yellow gold. We wouldn’t really blame you if the price tag processing part of your brain, as well your overstretched, extremely worried bank account may need to […]

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Paris Fashion Week SS14 highlights from Balmain, Lanvin, Nina Ricci & more

There was a lot of action in Paris yesterday, as spring/summer 2014 collections from Balmain, Lanvin, Nina Ricci, Balenciaga and Paco Rabanne hit the catwalks. Rosie Huntington Whiteley lent a helping hand to Balmain, as she closed the show in a beautiful sheer number which undoubtedly got all the red blooded males in the audience very excited. There was a lot less razzmatazz in the new-season collection; a conscious decision made by Olivier Rousteing who said that he wanted to see what the stereotypical Balmain girl (who loves her some eveningwear and partywear) looked like at 9 in the morning. A great concept – and one that we would definitely get on board with. Balmain for breakfast sounds like a great idea to us! Alber Elbaz made it all about the shine factor over at Lanvin, as models came out in shiny, mirrored garments – some of whom did so while carrying what looked like bin bags. Bin day has never been more glamorous! Reflection was also a very prominent theme on the Balenciaga catwalk, as models strutted up and down the runway with mirrors surrounding them – capturing their each and every move from a variety of angles. There was no chance of missing one of Alexander Wang’s creations with the mirrors there! The Balenciaga girl is a tad more sporty, active and casual this season. Lanvin Nina Ricci  Balenciaga Paco Rabanne 

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“I think it is better to be stylish than trendy” – Miley Cyrus, Fashion, November 2013

It doesn’t look like we can go a single day without something new from Miley Cyrus popping up; earlier this week we gushed over her Harper’s Bazaar magazine cover, yesterday we dissected her brand new music video in great detail, and today it’s all about her appearance on Fashion‘s November issue. Yes November issues are already been released -where has the time gone, eh? Miley was photographed by Chris Nicholls, and is rocking a Kufmanfranco dress for the striking, attention-grabbing front cover. Inside the mag, as well as posing for some gorgeous pictures (not a single poked-out tongue, foam finger or wrecking ball in sight) Miley opens up about that MTV VMA performance, her relationship with Liam Hemsworth, and her taste in fashion… “I can go through so many clothes say ‘no, that’s not me’ right away. I’m so adamant and controlling and OCD about my work that I can scare some people—especially when it comes to clothes,” she said. “I have a very specific style of my own and I think it is better to be stylish than trendy. I find vintage Celine or Chanel and mix it with athletic or vintage pieces makes a look modern and fresh. Vintage makes everything look punk.” And what about her Gwen-Stefani-esque outfit she wore while arriving at this year’s MTV VMAs?  “I found what I wore on the red carpet to the VMAs with Pharrell. It was a Dolce and Gabbana piece from 1992—the year I was born. He saw it and said, ‘you have to buy it.’ I think that outfit added a factor that the other girls couldn’t compete with. “Pharrell says it’s not about what you’re wearing; it’s the way you wear it. That was a lesson I took to heart. I think it is important that I […]

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Lunchtime Buy: Jimmy Choo glittered pumps

Here’s something for the weekend! Or for any day where you want to feel good about yourself and really sparkle. Heck you can wear these Jimmy Choo glittered pumps around the house to do the washing up in – we won’t judge! These Jimmy Choo glittered pumps are suitable for all occasions where looking fabulous is expected. Wear them with a sexy LBD to a lavish soiree if you want to go all out, or wear them with skinny jeans and a simple top to add some sparkle and wow factor to your otherwise casual look. Your eyes aren’t deceiving you either, you really can get these babies for under £400 – click the link below if you don’t believe us! Jimmy Choo glittered pumps, £545 £399

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London Fashion Week SS14 Day 1 highlights

Despite the grey skies, multiple clouds and sporadic bursts of suede-boot-ruining-rain, London Fashion Week definitely kicked off with a bang. The spring/summer 2014 shows were eventful, action-packed and inventive… and we can’t wait for some of the trends to hit the high streets in months to come! Here are some highlights from a few of our favourite shows: One of the great things about LFW is the support it gives upcoming talent by giving it a platform to showcase itself – and the Ones to Watch show is one of the best ways to introduce new designers to the world. This season was the turn of Hannah Williams, Helen Lawrence and Renli Su; three very different but equally beautiful collections. Helen Lawrence presented soft, pastel hued pieces, while Hannah Williams went dramatic, theatrical and larger-than-life. Renli Su went for unstructured, minimal, casual and unassuming. If you’re after a girly, sugary-sweet (almost too sweet) collection, then look no further than Yeashin! Candy colours, porcelain doll aesthetics and fairy tale inspired pieces floating down the catwalk Bernard Chandran was another favourite – the intricateness, the colour, the texture, the wow factor! There was a definite rich and royal theme running throughout the collection; luxury done right! Shimmer, attention to detail and wet-look hair was what we took away from the Felder Felder show, while it was dramatic biker chic over at Todd Lynn. And we weren’t the only ones who seemed to enjoy the Ping He show, as front row-ers Laura Whitmore and Poppy Delevingne appeared to be loving it too. Monochrome, tough and edgy pieces dominated the catwalk, with some intricate patterns and gravity-defying bee-hive hairstyles to boot. Todd Lynn DAKS

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Lunchtime Buy: Lipsy embellished bandeau dress

Time to turn up the glamour factor, we think. Tomorrow is the start of London Fashion Week which means you probably have your show outfits all sorted by now, so we reckon it’s a good time to snap up a perfect party piece to celebrate and commiserate the end of another season when it’s all over in a few days’ time. And no one does glam partywear quite like Lipsy, right? The best thing about the Lipsy embellished bandeau dress that we chose today is that it can be worn to one fab occasion after another; prom, a family wedding, a cocktail party, birthday drinks (yours or your best friend’s) – you name it! Bandeau dresses never go out of style; go bold by teaming this Lipsy embellished bandeau dress with some sky high caged heels in a contrasting bright colour, or go demure by opting for some chic black shoes, a clutch and accessories instead. Lipsy embellished bandeau dress, £65

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Dakota Fanning wows in Elie Saab Couture at Venice Film Festival

Dakota Fanning has once again taken our breath away – this time with her appearance at the 70th Venice International Film Festival over the weekend. The blonde 19-year-old actress stunned in a midnight blue Elie Saab Couture gown which was very apt considering she was there to promote her brand new film Night Moves. While Dakota opted to go for the fairytale princess factor by opting for a sparkly floor-length dress, there was a certain amount of daring sex appeal to it… just look at that plunging neckline! The rest of her look was kept simple, with only Rona Pfeiffer and Cathy Waterman rings on her fingers by way of accessories. We think her natural freely-flowing hair stopped the look from looking too prom-like so we’re glad she didn’t go for an intricate up-do on this occasion.

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The selfie-centred nation: Snap happy or plain crazy?

Hello, and welcome to the millionth conversation about turning the camera on yourself. The selfie really exploded this week, legitimising its existence by snapping up a place in the Beverly Hills equivalent for words, Oxford Dictionaries Online. Every person (and their shoe-clad pug) has discussed and dissected the art, and how to perfect it. (Thanks, Stylist magazine) OK, so we’re not going to tutor you on how to take one – unless you’ve been living in Transnistria, without your smartphone, and subsequently don’t understand the science behind applying filters, perfecting angles and getting the ideal ‘hotdog’ leg shot. But, instead, what we want to talk about is, whether, the suggestion for a “digital detox” is at all valid when we’re being bombarded with these addictive titbits into everyone’s lives. Instagram can be called upon as the main culprit for spearheading our obsession that little bit further, but Twitter, Tumblr, Facebook and endless Pinterest repins of pretty blogger/fashion bod figures are equally to blame. We’re not slating the selfie; it’s a satisfying feeling like no other, when you land a flattering, sun soaked shot that makes your body resemble Kendall Jenner’s (thanks, Earlybird and Sutro (Google them)). But more and more experts are telling us to “switch off”, “tune out” and effectively, take a technological self-cleanse, or a “digital detox” to stop our frazzled brains from burning out, and recovering some of that smartphone-free time we once cherished. Remember? Funny, though, the mixed messages we get about social media. Turn to print magazines and they tease you with snippets of information which lure you back to “tuning in.” Case in point: Voguestagrams. The fashion tome asked readers to post pictures of them with the hefty September issue, using #voguestagram. Aren’t we supposed to be losing ourselves in the magazine, instead of […]

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Ladylike style: Prim and proper, or just plain boring? (We can’t decide)

We want a twee twinset, live for Celine’s floaty, knee-length skirts, and can’t say no to a good old British afternoon tea: are we really turning into FLOTUS/K. Middy clones, with our sensible slingbacks and a penchant for co-ordinated accessories? OK, let’s blame Zara (and Marc Jacobs at Louis Vuitton for attributing ‘fetch (yes, fetch) status to low-heeled pointy slingbacks our mothers would probably like to steal borrow. But what about the appropriate dressing bit?  Kate Middleton (naturally) champions it; Michelle Obama has pretty much nailed the haute housewife look, occasionally throwing an awe-inspiring Jason Wu number into the mix. And, now, even Kim Kardashian is doing a personal rendition of conservative, FROW-worthy looks for everyday, thanks to beau Kanye’s influence squeezing every last bandage dress out of her wardrobe. But, it’s interesting to figure out whether this realigning of wardrobe affairs to rival our mothers’ is due to the above-mentioned tastemakers constantly being forced before our eyes. If it weren’t for the hundredth mention of Kate’s coat-dress or the First Lady’s hemline sparking a new wave of anti-thigh skimming-anything trendsetters, would we care so much for a demure dress? Bringing us back to reality with his sharp comments on the First Lady’s attire, a few months back, Simon Doonan put it bluntly: “She dresses appropriately. I don’t think of her as being chic.” It holds true, that we dress in accordance with our roles and duties, and, often relay messages about our identity through the daily sartorial choices we make. But can the chic-factor immediately be dropped when an influential position is at the forefront? Doonan’s comments also sparked the following question in our minds: If appropriate dressing can’t be chic, then is the housewife trend a redundant fad? There was a time (pre –Kate Middleton), when sensible dresses, simple pumps […]

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Benefit’s Real Men Don’t Fake It ad goes viral

We urge those of you of a prudish disposition to look away now. Even though its mascara flies off the shelves and is already in the make-up bags of the majority of make-up-wearing women, Benefit Cosmetics has decided to go for the shock factor and create a viral video for its product. So, a few Jersey Shore cast members and some hyperbolic shocked female faces later, the Real Men Don’t Fake It Benefit mascara advert was born! “We wanted to find a clever way to play on real vs. fake double entendre,” said Claudia Allwood, a spokesperson for Benefit. “It’s irreverent and cheeky, so overt you can’t possibly take it seriously. We at least hope to make someone giggle.” In a nutshell, the ad features a host of male characters displaying, erm, large packages in their undergarments, with the surrounding females getting predictably excited. Jersey Shore’s Vinny Guadagnino is joined by comedian Brittany Furlan and actor/rapper Simon Rex, and you can check it out in all its cheeky glory in the video below. What do you think? [Mashable] 

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Rochelle Humes wears Dolce and Gabbana for One Direction This Is Us premiere

Leicester Square was overflowing with One Direction fans yesterday as they waited for the boys to hit the red carpet for the London premiere of their film This Is Us. To say there was a lot of online and real-life buzz around the event would be the understatement of the century! However, as dapper as the boys looked (especially one Burberry clad Harry Styles – if we were a few years younger!) it was the girls who had our attention on the red carpet; Rochelle Humes in particular. Rochelle, i.e. one fifth of The Saturdays, definitely got our best-dressed crown, as she hit the red carpet in a stunning Dolce and Gabbana dress that fitted her like a glove. We don’t even need to mention how jealous we are of her post-baby figure… The yummy mummy styled her hair in an effortless, dishevelled side plait, and continued the wow factor theme of the outfit by opting for a sparkly Swarovski necklace, a daring shade of red lipstick and red chain strap bag. It was a tough job standing out from the crowd but Rochelle certainly managed it!

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A prime example of smart casual courtesy of Eva Longoria

Going out to dinner with the boyfriend or to a show with the girls but not quite sure what to wear? Perhaps you have to make a mad dash for it after work and you haven’t got time to change? If you find yourself in this sartorial predicament and are a bit stumped for outfit ideas, we’d like to refer you to Eva Longoria’s latest look for inspiration. The pint sized former Desperate Housewives actress got the smart/casual/sexy balance just right when she was spotted out in LA the other night on her way to celeb-fave Katsuya. She proved that you don’t need to always go for a tight fitting dress or pile on the accessories to turn on the glam factor, as she looked effortlessly chic in a pair of white trousers, a smart loose-fitting printed blouse and wow-worthy Brian Atwood sandals. The shoes definitely did the talking as far as this ensemble was concerned – no one can deny the power of a fierce pair of heels! Taking a fab but versatile pair of heels into the office for last-minute outfit changes is not only advised, but heartily encouraged if you often find yourself rushing off somewhere dressier after work. We love the cute hairband, too! [Image] 

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Fendi chameleon snakeskin duffle tote: Yay or Nay?

With autumn/winter 2013 already setting the tone for accessories that’ll make the cut come September, snakeskin was a prominent trend. But we’re not talking traditional (read: boring, colourless) snakeskin. No. Updating the luxe skin for fall, every designer, from Marios Schwab to Gucci, were busy injecting rich hues of red, ochre and green into their designs, offering a new lease of life to upscale accessories, shoes and clothes alike. And leading us into next season nicely is the Fendi chameleon snakeskin duffle tote; an extravagant take on the trusty tote, and one that’s sure to turn heads, thanks to its vivid banana and black colourway and exquisite gold-toned logo hardware. Tempted to add it to your handbag collection, and see in autumn/winter with a splash of vibrant colour? We’ve rationalised its purchasing potential, and summed up the reasons for and against snapping up this piece of Fendi finery. Yay Luxe factor: If you’ve a penchant for luxury skins, then this snake leather tote is the ideal option. Statement investment: The chameleon tote is a twist on the classic Fendi duffle bag, so you’ll be investing in an iconic style, updated effortlessly for the new season. Practical: With a detachable belted crossbody strap for casually slinging over your shoulder, or top handles for when you want to up the chic ante, a 2-in-1 bag situation is always a winner! Nay Price: Yep, you guessed right. Sitting at the premium end of the accessory world, Fendi doesn’t translate to financial stability, as such! Priced extravagantly at £2,340, you’ll need solid friends for a (permanent) loan, or survive lunch-less at work for at least a year! Colour: If fruity hues haven’t been to your taste since Stella McCartney’s citrus invasion for spring/summer 2011, then the chameleon tote’s blaring banana tone won’t be too popular, either. Longevity: Applying the five-outfit rule, […]

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Lunchtime Buy: Shourouk crystal-embellished PVC clutch

“Luxury and decadence” is the fashion motto by Parisian designer Shourouk Rhaiem. The brand brings the wow factor to its magnificent jewellery and bag collections – everything from neon beading to Swarovski crystals, Shourouk’s creations scream “bold and beautiful”, and we love it! The designer’s bright-yellow PVC clutch is beautifully embellished with the label’s signature clear and painted neon crystals. Transparent plastics are one of this seasons big looks, making this clutch a clear style leader. With the adornment of the lavish yellow beads and sparkling stones, this item will definitely not go unnoticed. Our tip would be to play up the contemporary-cool appeal with either a tonal dress or black and white separates, enabling the terribly trendy PVC clutch to pop. Simply hold, or make use of the optional shoulder strap to go hands free. Why not check out the rest of Shourouk’s elaborate collection to accessorise your finished look? An equally stunning statement necklace should do just the trend trick! Shourouk Rhaiem crystal-embellished PVC clutch, £520, Net a Porter

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Get Caroline Flack’s floral festival look

Those summer festivals aren’t over just yet, which means there’s still time to perfect your festival sartorial style. Especially if the weather remains as hot and humid as it is today. Stay cool, embrace the summer, and keep the heat out by following in the footsteps of Caroline Flack. The Xtra Factor presenter looked and stayed cool by opting for a fun summer dress, kept the sun off her head in an on-trend hat and ensured she had one-up on the mud by way of some edgy black boots. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate her look: Black daisy print tea dress, £29, available at Glamorous.com Black leather cross body bag, £55.20, Rocha John Rocha available at Debenhams Flat Chelsea ankle boots, £55, available at Next Black hat, £37, BGN available at Yoox

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Lunchtime Buy: Topshop feather capelet

On the style search for a garment that will not only complete your look but will also stylishly shout out “everyone look at me?” Well, with this feather capelet by fashion high street leader Topshop, you will leave others rather flustered with envy when wearing this unique article of clothing. Predominantly adorned in black, the super cool capelet has hints of pretty pearly hues within the feathers that bring an interesting and edgy twist to the piece. This capelet projects ultimate individuality and will totally awaken any ordinary jeans-and-plain-tee combination. The seriously soft texture and the overall highly effective appearance certainly give this item the ‘wow’ factor. Topshop prides itself on making its ever stylish, new season pieces totally unique and always has the amazing ability to work for us as fashion savvy customers. The store brings us the best replicas of what the latest catwalk looks offer and at a fraction of the price. That’s why we love you, Topshop! This will without a doubt create a stunning statement whether you opt to dress this desirable design up or down. Topshop feather capelet, £90, Topshop

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Rise of the luxury basics

Forming the foundations of a well-honed wardrobe, basics play an important part in everything from outfit recycling to look-building. Those vital pieces we return to repeatedly, without the fear of being accused of the ‘same outfit’ by fellow fashion friends, are crucial to making our wardrobes work that bit harder. But the recent return to comfort and causal cool in fashion has inevitably seen a rise in demand for these basic clothing items, marking them out as something of a luxury product. Take our current sneaker obsession, for example; upscale department store, Liberty has reworked the classic Nike Air Max 1 trainer with its iconic print, and now we’re keeping them on our feet post-work commute. Isabel Marant’s continuous stream of reworked £300+ wedge sneakers are instant sell-outs on luxury e-tail sites such as Net-a-Porter and Matches, and a plain cotton tee is no longer a snatch-and-grab lunchtime buy at Topshop, but rather a well thought out James Perse or T by Alexander Wang affair, cashing in at £60 and above. Whatever happened to keeping basics basic (pardon the pun)? In a time where print and maximalism overload seems to reign freely, are we all scurrying back to the neutral nonchalance of the Nineties, minus the grunge factor? A clean style slate is always a winner, especially if you don’t want to conform to a particular trend tribe, but are the upscale prices and luxe labels automatically attached to plain garments that don’t look much different to their high street alternatives justified at all? (Cue: £11,000 diamond skinny jeans.) We guess the runways are partly to blame, thanks to the likes of Balenciaga, Alexander Wang and Céline championing the minimalist movement, making us want to ditch our Mary Katrantzou prints. But if the fashion gods are dictating this newfound love […]

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Buy of the Week: Matthew Williamson embellished metallic leather clutch

Wanna give them the old ‘razzle-dazzle’ this week? Your day is about to get a little bit more glittery as you are sure to be super amazed with this eye-catching, pattern-popping embellished metallic leather clutch by the king of prints, Matthew Williamson. This astonishing artisanal clutch magnificently contrasts metallic bright-blue leather hues and striking shimmering beads that defiantly create the ‘wow’ factor, and would add sparkle and shine to any ordinary outfit. The exquisite attention to detail is unreal and features fabulous shades of electric blues, greens and greys… and is adorned with a varied selection of embroidery and beads. The clutch consists of an array of different patterns that are mirrored throughout the desirable design. It’s made from goat’s leather, has an internal zipped pocket, is fully lined and also has a zip fastening at the top. We’d say it’s a fantastic feast for the eyes and one not to be missed this week! To highlight this seriously striking clutch to the max, style with a simple blue maxi dress and accessorise with a metallic necklace and a matching ring for the most electric evening ensemble. We love! Matthew Williamson embellished metallic leather clutch, £1,250, NET-A-PORTER

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Invest in a biker jacket! Here are 5 of the best to shop right now

If there’s one regularly revisited, over worn and highly prized possession in your wardrobe, we bet it’s your favourite biker jacket. Ok, maybe after your Chanel bag. The go-with-everything staple jacket is super-versatile, whatever your style preference, and never submits to the whim of a seasonal trend – it’s perennially perfect, as we like to put it. Although the humble biker has been reinvented in several guises – from denim to floral prints and more – we’re sticking to our sartorial guns on this one, and pledging allegiance to the classic leather version. And when it comes to something like leather, which only gets better with time, your best bet is to splash out on an investment buy. Look to high-end options that balance style with longevity, and we guarantee you’ll be wearing your biker for many years to come. Check out our round up of the top five investment biker jackets, and get shopping for the perfect style that will never fall out of fashion. Helmut Lang jacquard leather biker jacket, £965, available at My-Wardrobe: We’re digging the textured twist this biker jacket brings to lift a simple off-duty ensemble. Balenciaga The new quilted leather jacket, £1,625, available at Matches Fashion: Up the wow factor by snapping up this powder yellow beauty by Balenciaga. If you’re a champion of colour, this will be one splurge you won’t regret. Acne Mape leather biker jacket, £1,100, available at Net-a-Porter: A favourite amongst the fash-pack; the cult Mape jacket from our favourite Swedish brands offers the right amount of cool with an edge. The boxy fit gives it an androgynous feel. Burberry Brit studded leather biker jacket, £1,395, available at My Theresa: The epitome of stand-out leather biker jackets; you’ll be centre of attention in this studded number come fashion week! McQ Alexander […]

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10 blazers under £100!

Reincarnated in so many guises, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep track of the sartorial power the humble blazer harbours. From the sharpsuiter (geddit), I-damn-well-mean-business types, to the more casually inclined, printed versions; blazers have, well, trail blazed the way for everything – from making outerwear appropriate on the dance floor to taking the boardroom staple out of the office and into our off-duty lives. But slipping into a well cut blazer needn’t cost the earth. Searching high and low (as we do), we’ve tracked down 10 of the best blazers available in stores right now, and all under £100! From preppy prints at Topshop to shots of bold, tropical hues at Debenhams; sleek whites at F&F and subtle nudes at Missguided, here are the 10 blazers worthy of your hard-earned cash, that won’t leave a gaping hole in your fashion fund! Boohoo, £30: A fun and smart way to add florals to your wardrobe this summer, this floral-print blazer is perfect over an easy summer dress, or a casual jeans and tee ensemble. Next, £32: Turn summer’s favourite offering on its head, by snapping up a blazer in candyfloss pink – and lace! We’re wearing ours with a flippy summer skirt, blouse and ballerina pumps. Debenhams, £45: Unleash your colour-loving side in this bold Butterfly by Matthew Williamson blazer. A great office-to-after work drinks option. River Island, £60: Tread the futuristic trend path in this sleek, leatherette detail blazer from our favourite high street haunt.  Marks & Spencer, £55: Don’t let black become boring. Instead snap up this Limited Collection bird print blazer, and give all the boardroom bores a run for their money! Topshop, £65: Prints with the pizzazz factor? This patch print blazer has got it nailed. Pair with all white separates for a chic office look. […]

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Where to buy the best maternity swimsuit?

Relaxing on the beach or going for a calm swim sound perfect for a pregnant woman, don’t they? If this sounds right up your street but you haven’t found a swimsuit to support and flatter your changing shape and growing baby bump, we’re here to help. We’ve selected five of the best maternity swimsuits from the people who know mummies-to-be best… 1. – You don’t have to be from the States to snap up sexy swimwear from Maternal America – God bless the Internet! If you don’t want to give up the glam factor during your pregnancy, look no further than this tropical, bright number. Maternal America Josie maternity tankini swimsuit, $138 2. – Super-flattering, and supportive of your bump as well as your bust, this on-trend swimsuit features a subtle polka dot top, a slimming bottom and a sexy red waist detail. The best of all worlds. Zoggs Mallacoota maternity scoopback swimsuit, £40 3. – This red hot number may be plain as far as design (or lack thereof) is concerned, but it’s by no means boring. Au contraire, the subtle bow detailing will flatter and draw attention to your expanding bust (one of the perks of pregnancy!), and the slimming silhouette will hug your curves in all the right places. Asos maternity exclusive swimwear pant, £8 4. – Figleaves knows a thing or two about women, which is why it has nailed maternity lingerie and swimwear! You can’t go wrong with this tankini set that’s as supportive as it is stylish. Figleaves Versaille maternity tankini set, £36 5. – Burst onto the beach with this bright, loud swimsuit. Attention-grabbing, flattering and under £10? Snap it up now before it’s gone! Asos maternity swimwear in watercolour Ikat, £9.50

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Lunchtime Buy: Tim Ryan multi fringed skirt

On the lookout for a skirt with a little bit of a difference this season? Do you want something slightly unconventional and quirky? Well look no further because we have just come across this fabulously original multi fringed skirt by designer Tim Ryan! This one-of-a-kind skirt is super unique and is proving to carve a new niche in Bohemian glamour. Adorned with Tim’s eclectic fringed pieces and festival-inspired knitwear, we are totally lusting over this psychedelic edgy creation. There’s no need to worry about not making a style statement this summer in this fringed skirt as it does all the trend talking and it definitely has that ‘wow’ factor. We love! The white under-laying colour tone gives the skirt a real summery feel and with the graduating colour scheme ranging from reds and oranges to pinks and blues, this gorgeous garment is enough to put anyone in a cheery, fun-loving kinda mood. Try styling with a tucked in white tee and accessorise with neon jewellery, a matching bag and strappy sandals to complete this lush look that all of your girlfriends will be lusting after. Tim Ryan multi fringed skirt,  £590, www.avenue32.com  

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Christian Louboutin 100mm Paulina Heels: Yay or Nay?

Another lust-worthy shoe, another dilemma: should we, or shouldn’t we? Well, they do say, you can never have enough shoes, so… Lurking quietly on our shoe-dar this week is the 100mm Paulina stiletto from none other than the god of all things fabulously footwear, Christian Louboutin. Seeking to tempt us into its deliciously heeled, Perspex lure, the Paulina heels boast a 4 inch heel (heel lovers, rejoice!), and standout pink Perspex and black leather trim detail. The mushroom-grey, patent exterior is suitably muted against the bright details, making the Paulina stiletto ideal for different looks, whilst the signature red sole naturally elevates the wow factor to stratospheric heights. In love? Already hovering over the ‘click to buy’ button? Well before taking the plunge with Paulina (sorry!), check out our Yay and Nay tips below. You might just love us for it. Yay Day-to-night: The subtle mushroom grey patent leather makes the Paulina stiletto a stylish contender for the boardroom. Factor in the dash of pink Perspex, and you’re ready to hit the bar for post-work cocktails. Classic red sole: Nothing beats the satisfaction that comes from slipping into a pair of iconic Louboutins, and the red soles will only up your fashion cred (amongst a set of very jealous fash friends). Trend-dip: If you’re not a fan of the Louboutin Perspex craze, then this is a safer, more toned down way to get in on the trend action. The Paulina heels will probably compliment your winter coat next season, too. Win-win! Nay Price: Hmm, these vertiginous beauties are, sadly, accompanied by a slightly dizzying price tag. At £425 a pop, don’t forget the all-important cost-per-wear calculation before clicking the Paulina heels home, ladies! Colour: Although the colour palette is multi-functional, carefully consider how many looks you’ll be able to pair […]

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Alexa Chung does edgy workwear in House of Holland

Henry Holland, i.e. he of the swish “must-be-seen-at” parties, hosted a dinner in New York last night to celebrate his brand new Resort collection. And as you can imagine, it was attended by some of the hottest and most fashionable folk in the industry. Never one to miss a Henry Holland bash was our girl Alexa Chung, who once again looked effortlessly chic and stylish in her perfectly put together ensemble. She rocked up to the dinner in a quirky House of Holland pencil skirt (far longer than her usual hemlines, we must say!), which she accessorised with a sharp shirt, a Mulberry satchel, and a fierce leather jacket for that much-needed edge and grunge factor. Alexa loves a bit of school-girl aesthetic, but her look has definitely matured on this occasion, as her sartorial inspiration was more office woman than school girl. Flawless, as usual though. We miss you Chungers, come back to the UK soon, please! [Image] 

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12 Things People Often Forget To Take On Holiday

Brits spend £118 million on things that they forget to pack. Findings show that people waste a fortune on buying items they’ve forgotten to take on holiday with them. Now we’ve all forgotten at least one item in our lifetime- after all, we’re human. However, these packing mishaps could be burning a hole in your wallet. Are you a scatter-brain? Here are the 12 most popular items that people forget to pack: First aid kit No-one plans to get ill on holiday but whether you like it or not, it can happen. Essentials include plasters, diarrhoea tablets, antihistamines, pain killers and travel sickness pills. Camera It goes without saying; pack your camera and you can capture the fun memories which you can then look back on and smile about for years to come. Sun cream It is imperative that you protect your skin from damaging UV rays and getting sunburnt will only make your holiday a miserable one. Pack plenty of sun cream in various factors. Passport You’ll be surprised at the amount of people that leave home without their passport. Trust us- you won’t get very far. Even if you aren’t flying, it’s still a useful form of ID when going away. Adequate clothes It can’t harm to pack a light jacket in case it rains. Take some shoes as well as flip flops and pack some smart evening clothes lest there is a strict dress code. Emergency money If you lose your purse or get mugged, some backup cash will be a lifesaver. A credit card is ideal or alternatively, pack a few notes and hide it in a separate envelope in your suitcase. EHIC/ Insurance If you are travelling within the EU, the European health insurance card will ensure you can get free emergency medical treatment. If […]

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Valentino Snakeskin Rockstud Handbag: Yay or Nay?

The final word in luxury, no one does uber-glam quite like Valentino. Accented with an understated sexiness, we love how the brand has perfected the tough-luxe mix, and keeps up coming back more! Having cooed over the PVC Rockstud Shoulder Bag, another equally desirable version has just landed on our bag radar! Enter the Snakeskin Rockstud Bag; a spacious and office-appropriate offering from one of the most popular Valentino collections. Crafted from luxe snake leather, the Snakeskin Rockstud bag boasts a handy detachable and adjustable shoulder strap, gold-toned hardware and numerous zippered pockets for maximum carrying capacity, not forgetting the overspill of arm candy hotness! The signature rockstud adornment and tortoiseshell exterior instantly afford this bag must-have status, but before giving into temptation, consider the reason’s we’re saying Yay and Nay to snapping up the Snakeskin Rockstud bag. Yay Luxe factor: The snakeskin exterior elevates the Rockstud bag to uber-luxe status, and if that’s what you’re looking for when splashing out on a handbag, then it is the ideal option. Versatile: The detachable shoulder strap makes the Snakeskin Rockstud Bag ideal for slinging over your shoulder on a day trekking around the city, and smart enough for the office, thanks to the structured double top handles. Spacious: With a zippered back wall pocket and front wall slot pockets, it’s safe to say you won’t be running out of space to fit the essentials! Nay Price: At a whopping £2,380, expect to be bankrupt, or at least financially crippled for a year. Ouch. Trend-centric: As much as we love a dash of animal print in our wardrobes, splashing the cash on such a statement option could prove problematic – especially if you’re a classic handbag hopper, and tire of your latest arm candy easily. Colour: The tobacco-black turtle colourway, although flattering, isn’t […]

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Lunchtime Buy: River Island Blue Mirror Embellished Pencil Skirt

Are you a fan of pretty much anything sparkly, glittery and all out beading-fantastic? Are you looking to uplift your party wardrobe with an item that’s sure to be a big favourite this season? Well look no further than this blue mirror embellished pencil skirt by River Island because it pretty much has it all. Certainly exceeding all the wow factors, this stunning pencil skirt is one of our favourite items from the latest arrivals at River Island, i.e. the ‘Best Trendsetter’ winner at this year’s Lorraine’s High Street Fashion Awards. (It’s not hard to see why it picked up that accolade!) This stunning skirt portrays icy-coloured hues that are right on trend this season, and features a gorgeous geometric pattern that mirrors the fabulous design details. Filled to the brim with coordinating beads and light reflecting sequins, this skirt will definitely make a statement at your party. With so much intricate detail adorned on this garment, we would certainly advise you to keep your top half plain, enabling the embellished skirt to do all the talking. We know where we’ll be heading on our lunch break! Blue Mirror Embellished Pencil Skirt by River Island, £70, River Island

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Kelly Brook makes bandage dresses sexy again!

We hold our hands up and freely admit that we give celebs in bandage dresses a bit of a hard time. We don’t actually hate bandage dresses – au contraire, we think they’re great for showing off a svelte, toned body, and are also a great, “safe”, “go-to” choice. We just roll our eyes when we see the same celebs in the same types of dresses time and time again. Yes Britney Spears (and more recently, Tulisa Contostavlos), we’re looking at you. Kelly Brook however, likes to mix it up on the red carpet. It might be because she has spectacular curves that fill out each and every dress perfectly, it might be because she has a great stylist, it might be because she likes to take sartorial risks… and it might be a combination of all of the above. The reasons aren’t important. What is important is the fact that she looked hot to trot at last nights OJAM charity bash (that’s the JLS charity, FYI), which proves that bodycon bandage dresses still have that wow factor if the right person wears them. A glowing tan, sky high heels, natural make-up and glossy brunette waves completed Kelly Brook’s effortlessly va-va-voom look. Kelly attended the event with on again/off again boyfriend Danny Cipriani, which we bet broke a lot of male hearts!

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Cannes Film Festival – Cleopatra special

The sartorial big guns were out for the Cleopatra premiere at the Cannes Film Festival – so much so that we actually developed a bit of a migraine trying to narrow down our best-dressed ladies. Lots of arguments at MFL HQ about who would secure a top spot! Dita von Teese was easily one of the best-dressed, looking like red hot sexy vintage goddess in a lacy Elie Saab Couture dress. Her flawless porcelain skin, old Hollywood curls and ruby stained lips contributed to the look’s overall wow factor! Also going for the classic Hollywood look was Jessica Chastain, who took our breath away in a white floor-length Versace collection dress. The hair, the jewellery – we loved it all! Rosario Dawson killed it on the red carpet in a floor-length bedazzling Marchesa Resort gown. Not only did it fit in with the Cleopatra theme, but it was also exactly what we expect from a Cannes Film Festival red carpet. Full-on glamour and sparkle! Araya A Hargate also gets a mention for channelling a Disney princess on the red carpet; we’re not sure which one though – maybe an infusion of all of them? We thought she looked magical in her Zac Posen spring/summer 2013 gown – the bodice makes it harder to pull off than a normal fairytale-inspired dress might, but we think she owned it! What do you guys think?

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Charlotte Olympia Taurus suede slipper-style loafers: Yay or Nay?

The purveyors of lustful accessories and shoes, Charlotte Olympia is a fashion name to be reckoned with. Dressing fashion disciples in the iconic island platform, and getting everyone hooked on those dinky-yet-desirable Perspex clutches; we’re willing to shed the pounds (literally) for a piece of CO. This week, trying to find its way into our already-bursting shoedrobe is the Taurus suede slipper-style loafer; a new spin on the classic and comfortable shoe fashion bods have to come to love from this brand. And considering we’re in the middle of May, only the horoscopically apt Taurus would do – even better if you’re an actual Taurean! Available in delectable chocolate suede; the almond toe, handmade Taurus loafer is adorned with a hand-painted and Swarovski crystal-embellished zodiac motif, promising a glam polish to any off-duty ensemble, and even comes complete with a horoscope book! Predict your fashion future by taking stylish steps in the Taurus loafer, but before you do so, consider our Yay’s and Nay’s for bagging these beauties below … Yay  Comfort factor – The slipper-style design and 0.5 inch heel makes the Taurus Loafer an ideal option for those looking to balance comfort with style. Dress up, or down – The embellished motif design and gold-coloured trim elevates the Taurus loafer from off-duty option to evening ensemble completer in a flash. Just add a CO clutch for extra oomph. Luxe detail – The handmade element, 100 per cent goat leather upper and delish gold leather-covered heel give bring a luxe feel to an otherwise simple shoe design. Nay Novelty factor – Although the brand’s iconic Kitty flats have remained a fashion favourite, this zodiac-inspired collection could well be a short-lived tale. Would you consider wearing them regularly, or put them under the fashion fad category? Price – At £536 a pop, you’ll […]

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5 easy chic shoe picks for summer!

What’s the best thing about summer? Leaving the house without an umbrella, a scarf, and several layers of outerwear comes a close second… but splashing out on summer shoes is inarguably the winning answer! There’s an abundance of summer footwear all over the worldwide web, but we could happily do all our summer shoe shopping on the Barratts website. Not only would we find everything in one place but our bank accounts won’t be weeping either. Take a look at some of our favourite purse-friendly summer ladies shoes on our current wishlist… Dolcis Gladiator Style Platform Sandals Is there anything better to get you noticed than these strappy blue beauties? They also come in hot red as well as subtle nude, just to make your decision that little bit harder. If you’re after something to pack in your suitcase for your jollies we would suggest the nude as they scream, versatility, although the blue ones are a firm MFL fave. Yellow Ankle Strap Wedge Sandals Bright, bold, beautiful, not to mention super-comfortable… these yellow ankle strap wedge sandals seem to have it all. Perfect for wearing with a cute pair of cropped trousers, or even your funnest, flirtiest summer dress. They also come in black but when it comes to wowsome summer footwear, there really is no comparison. Lunar Tropical Floral Print Bow Trim Court Shoes Not off to a hot, tropical summer destination this summer? Don’t get too disheartened – we think these tropical floral print court shoes are a very good substitution. They come with a subtle platform for those of you who are into more ladylike designs, but they have all the benefits (read: comfort) of platform shoes. Best of both worlds! Gladiator Sandals With Diamante Disc Trim Everyone needs a day off from constantly wearing high heels, […]

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Conde Nast College: A school only for the rich, or everyone?

Aristotle once said, “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet”, and that’s the kind of heavy philosophical note we’re starting on. Drummed into us from a tender age is the idea that an education is the way to a better, easier, richer, and somewhat happier life. An educational tale filled with impressive qualifications and peppered with shining references is probably the ideal meal ticket for many, but the current educational climate has left many a student’s pocket in permanent drought, and their minds in permanent frustration. So, when we came across a Q&A with Susie Forbes, head of the controversial and recently opened CondéNastCollege of Fashion & Design, we couldn’t help but ponder over some of the claims made, not to mention the extortion that is the course fees. Earlier when we reported of its inception, CondéNastCollege of Fashion & Design was just a dream in development. Glossy magazines and annual subscriptions are the story of every aspiring fashion personality, but getting educated by Vogue is on another level, maybe of epic, tick-your-bucket-list proportions. In the Q&A, Forbes revealed the initial course offering, Vogue Fashion Certificate, is fully subscribed, and with the October intake for the Vogue Fashion Foundation Diploma set to further bump up figures. But it’s not the implementation of the chic college, or the collective of stellar staff and speakers that’s left us dumbstruck, but the cost of obtaining these non-standard qualifications. Both courses on offer at CondéNastCollege of Fashion & Design are not ‘recognised’ qualifications and seek to give students only a glimpse into a world they may one day want to inhabit. But at a cost of £6,600.00, excluding VAT and £19,560.00, excluding VAT respectively, this could prove a very costly insight. Although scholarships are available (three a year, to be precise), […]

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Zoe Saldana bold in Balmain for Star Trek Into Darkness premiere

Apart from finally getting to watch the actual film, the thing we’ve been looking forward to the most about the Star Trek Into Darkness release is Zoe Saldana’s red carpet appearances for the respective premieres and photocalls. The stunning actress seldom fails to impress us with her killer bod and wow factor outfits, and the Berlin movie premiere was no different as she donned a rich, bold Balmain number from the pre-fall 2013 collection which inevitably turned heads as she arrived. It’s a bit of a busy outfit in terms of print and colour, but we definitely think she pulled it off with her sleek, swept back hair, minimal make-up (save for some essential dark liner and shadow around the eyes) and lack of accessories. And her perfect pins seem to go on for days, nay weeks, which is always a plus in anyone’s books! Do you like Zoe’s outfit or is there too much going on for you?

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Gearing up for the summer? Here’s what to wear

[noskim] Summer’s finally on its way and it’s time to make sure your wardrobe reflects that! Here’s our very quick his ‘n’ hers guide to wearing the latest trends when the temperature rises: Men Pink and orange are widely tipped to be this summer’s big colours for guys, so make sure you invest in a salmon tee or some ochre cut-offs to make sure everyone knows you’re on board. Sleeveless blazers and jackets are an unusual incoming trend that made a splash in a number of designer’s SS13 collections, but we’ll leave it up to you to decide whether you want to follow this one. If you’re not so sure, you can’t really go wrong with a pair of men’s shorts and a T-shirt – maybe choose one or the other in a neon shade for a quick nod to another of the season’s hottest trends. The nautical look also does well every summer, and this year will be no exception: break out the stripy shirts and deck shoes to get this classic look right. Women The biggest women’s trend for SS13 is all about showing off your arty side – Andy Warhol-inspired prints, pop art dresses, stripy T-shirts and splashes of colour everywhere are what makes this look work. Branch out into the shinier side with metallic fabrics, great as an accent on a shirt or for a dress with the wow factor. Whatever you go for, go bold: this summer is all about bright colours and statement pieces. Alternatively, show off your retro side with a bit of back-to-the-90s fashion: this grungy look is all about faded denims, leather jackets and plaid skater shirts. Dig out those old band T-shirts and Converse trainers to make the most of the return of grunge! [/noskim]

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Kate Middleton is flawless in baby blue Emilia Wickstead

Wowsers, saying we love Kate Middleton’s latest look is one heck of an understatement! The Duchess of Cambridge looked absolutely radiant as she attended an event hosted by the National Portrait Gallery in London yesterday evening, donning one of her go-to-designers Emilia Wickstead for the occasion. Kate’s bump was more prominent and visible than ever in the baby blue dress, and we are beyond thrilled that she teamed it with some blue heels instead of her signature nude pumps. We can’t fault the hairstyle either – her trademark brunette locks were still evident and flowing freely in the soft London breeze, but the slight updo complemented the chic nature of her look perfectly. There’s nothing like a bit of a subtle bouffant to add the final bit of wow factor to a look! Can Kate’s maternity style get better? It’ll be tough to top this ensemble, but we think she’ll give it a ruddy good go!

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10 maxi dresses perfect for summer weddings

Got a line-up of summer weddings but no idea how to dress for the occasion? Ever the purveyors of fashion advice (you can thank us later), we’re here to help you select a killer dress for that blessed, sun-soaked occasion. Apart from getting a tan while waiting for photographs, the best thing about summer weddings is the choice you have when it comes to the day’s outfit. A maxi dress is a versatile option, easily taking you from the formalities of the day to the evening party, and can be styled with glamour and comfort in mind. Throw a smart jacket over the shoulders as a chic way to seek cover from the evening chill, or accessorise a block colour maxi dress with a statement neck piece, keeping the rest of your look simple. And what’s even better: after the wedding, you can recycle your outfit, ready for your next holiday! Check out our round up of 10 maxi dresses perfect for summer weddings below, and get RSVP’ing! Strapless pleated gown, £79.99, Mango: Perfect for the wedding guest on a budget, this dress delivers a high-end look with a high street price tag. Shoulder pad maxi dress, £50, Topshop: Thigh-slit dresses are the sexy way to flash a little flesh this season. Ask Angelina. By Malene Birger Nadra dress, £505, Zalando: Bring your own sunshine to the wedding party, even if the skies fail you. Issa embellished silk maxi dress, £321.75, The Outnet: Blue in all shades is the hue du jour for spring/summer 2013, and we love the no-accessories-needed embellished neckline. LouLou ruffle detail maxi dress, £265, Reiss: Inject the ultimate wow factor into your look with a burst of summer-perfect colour. Ozlem sequin maxi dress, £250, French Connection: For evening-perfect glam, throw sequins into the mix. Expect spark(le)s on the dance floor. […]

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7 laid-back spring jackets for the ultimate in weekend chic

If you’re feeling a little lazy on the style side when it comes to the weekend, a wow factor jacket will ensure you don’t slump on the fashion front. With spring here and summer knocking (well we’d like to think so!), all we can think about is packing away our hefty, blanket-like coats to make way for some light and pretty wearing. A perfect spring jacket is the reason fashionistas look forward to warmer climes (along with sunbathing, cocktails by the pools and envy-inducing swimwear), because, in a place like Blighty, it’s your saviour for those chilly nights you don’t want to leave the party early for fear of getting ill! Worn with a skirt and heels, or atop your favourite Marant-esque skinny cropped jeans and basic tee ensemble, our pick of seven laid-back spring jackets will ensure you’re the one leading the weekend chic pack. From printed bomber jackets to eye-popping pink crop shapes and desirable denim biker jackets, take your pick from our favourites and make a weekend a super-stylish one. 1. MSGM Graphic Raffia Patchwork Jacket, £410, My Wardrobe: Combining a statement design with a boxy shape, when thrown over a dressed down look, this jacket is a game changer. 2. Denim Biker Jacket, £54.99, Mango: A subtle twist on the classic biker jacket; the bleached denim look feels perfect for spring and the oversized fit is very now. 3. L’Agence Tweed Bomber Jacket, £390, Matches: Turn the quintessential tweed jacket on its head with a rainbow tweed composition and a rope drawstring hem. 4. Spotlight Flame Jacket, £110, French Connection: Perfect for smartening up your look for a weekend brunching session with the girls. 5. Quilted Ovoid Crop Jacket, £68, Topshop: Cocoon shaped jackets are a massive trend for next season, but this one in zingy pink feels great to wear now. […]

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Watch Terry Richardson get his first taste of POPwater

Many moons ago (six months actually) we told you about Terry Richardson’s new venture into POPwater… and now it’s finally time for the fashion photographer to get a sip of the product in front of the camera so we can all witness it! “After working closely with our friends at Coca Cola and Pepsi on various music related initiatives over the years, we were inspired to create a beverage that had music and pop culture in its DNA,” said Troy Carter, CEO of Atom Factory. “Terry Richardson and our creative team are bringing this vision to life and we’re excited to have them tell this story.” Indeed. Watch Terry try out the 30-calorie-beverage in the video below, and stay tuned for the official POPwater release on April 16th. It will hit the shelves of Los Angeles later this month, before heading to other parts of the world soon after. We love the hyperbolic reaction in the video! http://youtu.be/vUiwKtnIT60

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Fendi Studded Heel Sandals: Yay or Nay?

True to the decadent status of the country this brand originates from, Fendi is the epitome of Milanese glamour. We’re talking pure, unadulterated, dello Russo levels of glamour. Dripping with the luxury factor, and with an equally eyeball-popping price range to match, the Italian fashion house has given us this season’s hottest shoe – much like the ‘It’ bag, but for feet! Enter the Studded Heel Sandal; a ‘foot party’ if you like, as patent monochrome is artfully paired with metallic rose gold and a statement studded heel for the ultimate party heel. Although shoes with the ‘wow’ factor are an absolute necessity in every signora’s wardrobe, when it comes to the cash splash, treading carefully (pardon the pun) is important. So, to make the buying (or nope, not even looking) decision a little easier, we weighed up the YAY’s and NAY’s of snapping up these fashionably feisty Fendi heels before you become guilty of killing off your fashion friends with shoe envy. YAY 2-in-1 Trend trapper: Monochrome and metallic were huge trends favourites for SS’13 and, well, we do love a two bird with one stone style situation. These heels do just that. Perfect for summer soirées: The ultimate summer shoe hit, you won’t need much else when slipping into these studded sandals. Pair with a block colour, floaty summer dress and you’re good to go. Flattering colours: The monochrome is perfectly accented by the metallic rose gold cuffs, so the result will be a sleek and modern one when paired with a tailored wardrobe, or even a pencil skirt and a luxe knit for work. NAY Price: Ask yourself this: how many wears can I actually squeeze out of these heels before I begin to tire of them? If you can answer this question with a number exceeding eight, […]

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How long does Semi-Permanent Makeup Last For?

Semi-permanent makeup is rising in popularity all over the world and is it any wonder why? You can save money in the long-term by not buying new cosmetics, and you can save time by not applying it every single day. Just as the name signifies, it is ‘semi-permanent’ so it doesn’t last forever. As with anything in life, nothing is certain. How long should it last for then? Well, how long is a piece of string? *We’ll stop you there before you start to work out the answer. There is no definitive reply to this headline however; this guide will hopefully help you to understand more about the cosmetic treatment and its longevity. What can you expect? Your semi-permanent makeup should last on average three years. This is for all treatments including eyebrow and eyeliner makeup. Some people can see their makeup lasting anywhere from two to seven years, but on average, three years is the timespan. Makeup specialists recommend you to have a ‘retouch’ every 12-18 months to keep the makeup looking fresh and new. Why doesn’t it last longer? Semi-permanent makeup is somewhat permanent because the pigment cannot be washed off. However, over the years the colour will fade and this is normal. As the colour quality breaks down and it gradually disappears, it is your responsibility to top the colour up. What can you do to make it last longer? There are various aspects that you can do to prolong your makeup’s longevity but age, exposure to sunrays and swimming really are the decisive factors. After-care is essential which is why we don’t advise you to expose the treated area to any UVA rays, salts, saunas or chlorine in the initial two week healing process. Such harmful chemicals can reduce the lifespan of the treatment. It really […]

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Miley Cyrus goes bold in Chanel!

We get the distinct impression Miley Cyrus wanted to be noticed when she attended an event at the CHOC Children’s Hospital in California, don’t you? She probably knew that people were going to be talking about her anyway (her on again/off again relationship with fiancé Liam Hemsworth is a hot topic of conversation right now) but now she’s given everyone a whole new reason… her outfit! We’d want people talking about us too if we looked like that! Wearing Chanel is always going to get you noticed regardless – there’s something about stepping out in a finely crafted Chanel number that just commands attention – but we think this striped jumpsuit takes things to a whole new level. Especially with the added wow factor bonus of the bold red lips. We love this look – it’s current, youthful, season and occasion appropriate… and Miley nails it with her flawless body and winning smile. That should definitely show Liam what he’d be missing! [Image]

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The most iconic handbags revealed

[noskim] A handbag will make or break your outfit so it’s important to find one that goes with different outfits and looks up to the minute, yet timeless. The Radley handbags will make you look effortlessly stylish and will go with any look you’re aiming for. In their SS13 collection, the British brand proved they lived up to this standard and released some of the best handbags of the year so far! The ambassador and face of Radley, English model Laura Bailey who is known for her Vogue, L’Oreal and Marks & Spencer campaigns, says she likes her handbags to look “timeless chic with a bit of an edge” while also being “practical and stylish.” It doesn’t come as a surprise she chose to continue working with Radley because their collection has, once again, proved to be one of the best lines of iconic handbags this year, ticking all of Bailey’s boxes. Radley are celebrated for their extravagant soft leather bags. So whether you’re looking for shoulder bags, small purses and wallets, work bags or totes, they’ve all got the wow factor! We’ve listed some of their bags that we absolutely love. 1. Radley totes Tote bags are perfectly suited for a short trip. If you’re going to the movies or the beach and taking essentials such as food, drinks or cosmetics that you want to be able to access quickly, it’s useful to have a large and open bag with you. Radley sells gorgeous tote bags in black, grenadine, pink and various patterns. Our personal favourite is the Radley Chiltern Large Tote Handbag in a korma shade! 2. Radley workbags The Radley workbags are especially pretty. If you need a bag to store quite a few of your belongings in, whether for university or for work, Radley has released […]

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Candice Swanepoel vs. Michelle Dockery: Who wore Peter Pilotto better?

Masters of print, design duo Peter Pilotto know how to make a woman look good in a dress. And the two women competing for our attention in said designer’s dress this week are Victoria’s Secret Angel and all-round gorgeous lady, Candice Swanepoel, and Downton Abbey superstar, Michelle Dockery. First up, Ms. Swanepoel floored us with her fashion moves, as she slipped into the stunning flamenco-inspired printed panel dress at the Victoria’s Secret 2013 Swim Collection Party, last month. Looking enviably tanned and toned, the leggy lovely completed her look with a slicked back top-knot and black Louboutin pumps. But beating the South African beauty to it was English rose Michelle Dockery, who wore the same dress back in January to the Entertainment Weekly pre-SAG awards party. Opting for a chic, wispy up-do, Michelle accessorised her look with drop earrings, a box clutch and red pumps. Both ladies looked equally stylish in their print-tastic dresses, but there can only be one style champ! And with that said, Michelle lands our winning vote. Although we want Candice’s impossibly perfect body, the overall look is a bit harsh, and maybe tumbling locks would’ve been a better option. Black pumps are a little boring too, almost blending the look into one, matchy-matchy outfit. Michelle’s softer hairstyle and red pumps bring the extra glam factor to her look. Disagree with our style verdict? Tell us why, below!

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Dolce & Gabbana filigrane embellished gold-plated clip earrings: Yay or Nay?

The undisputed runway rulers of the accessory world, Dolce & Gabbana’s seasonal Sicilian offerings never fail to disappoint. Always harking back to their native Italy, the designs are splashed with intense colour and smattering of beautiful details; often ornate and major statement makers. So, on our Yay or Nay radar this week are hot-off-the-runway filigrane embellished gold-plated clip earrings. Decorated with multi-coloured stones, engraved gold-plated coins, raffia tassels and pompoms, clipping these to your earlobes are sure to turn heads! But they’re not exactly a dainty and delicate addition to your jewellery collection, and as with all Dolce designs, require a certain flamboyance to carry them off properly. Below, we weigh up the pros and cons of snapping up a pair! Yay Statement buy: Safe to say, the filigrane embellished gold-plated clip earrings aren’t your average minimalist investment. You’re set to make an uber-statement with these earrings, not to mention be the envy of your fashionable friends! Complementary to your wardrobe: With an array of colours squeezed into one earring, you’re sure to find the majority of your coloured wardrobe fits with this pair. No need for a wardrobe revamp then! Lightweight: Although they appear to be incredibly heavy, these earrings are deceptively lightweight, making them less painful when working your look on the beach all day! Nay One wear then despair item: The downside of a statement buy is that its sheer look-at-me factor means you can only really ever get one wear out of it, before experiencing yawn-you’ve-worn-it-before glares from passers-by! These earrings firmly fall into that category. Size: Not for the faint-hearted, much like most of Dolce & Gabbana’s colourful creations, these earrings are on the large side – meant to make an impact. Not the best investment if you prefer your accessories to accent, not overtake, […]

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Eva Longoria is red hot in floor-length John Galliano

Jessica Rabbit, eat your heart out – there’s a new sexy scarlet goddess in town and her name is Eva Longoria! Yep, our favourite former Desperate Housewives star looked nothing short of phenomenal on the red carpet last night, as she donned a floor-length John Galliano dress for the 2013 Laureus World Sports Awards which took place in Rio de Janeiro. Eva sported some seriously smouldering eye make up to add the sultry factor to the look, and left her enviable brunette wavy locks tumble over her shoulders. The best thing about this dress (apart from the fact that Eva was wearing it) is the sexy scoop back. Chic and demure in the front and daring and sexy in the back – is there anything this dress doesn’t have? Another red carpet triumph for Ms Longoria!

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Michelle Williams, Mila Kunis and Rachel Weisz bring Oz magic to London

The magical city of Oz looked remarkably like London last night, as the red carpet got rolled out in Leicester Square for the Oz the Great and Powerful premiere. We say red carpet, but it was in fact a yellow one in homagae to the great yellow brick road. Attention to detail – that’s what it’s all about! The three leading ladies Michelle Williams, Mila Kunis and Rachel Weisz pulled out all the stops in terms of their outfits, with each girl looking spellbinding in her own special way. For the Hollywood premiere, Michelle Williams chose a long white dress that was very fitting for her Glinda the Good Witch character, but we’re really pleased to see her rocking an edgier look this time round. The blue dress from the Burberry spring/summer 2013 collection does wonders for her complexion and figure, don’t you think? Not one to be outdone was Mila Kunis, who made a very powerful style statement in a ruffled Alexander McQueen dress. Rachel Weisz also showcased her style credentials by rocking up in a stunning Michael Kors gown from the pre-fall 2013 collection. The bold scarlet lip really does add the final wow factor to the look! Who was your favourite?

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Five fab heels guaranteed to put a spring in your step!

[noskim] We’re in the mood for shopping, and nothing makes us happier than splashing the cash on some fabulous pieces of footwear that will put a spring in our step and song in our hearts – with an emphasis on the word “spring”. Now that the weather’s warming up a bit (or at least, it’s supposed to) it’s time to ditch those fur-lined boots that have been our savior in the bitterly cold winter for something lighter, more feminine and best of all, more glamorous. Take a look at then gorgeous designer shoes we’ve picked out for you below. Ok, we’ve kind of broken our own rule and even gone for cheeky pair of Kate Spade flats as well – we couldn’t resist the rich cobalt blue tones, or the inevitable comfort that they will bring after a long, hard night of partying. What do you think of our selection of Kate Spade shoes? Which pair is your favourite? 1. Kate Spade Licorice Pump Pink Snake If you like your colours bright and your heels high, look no further than these beauties. The licorice pump in pink snake is an elegant and feminine shape for all you chic ladies out there, but is still attention-grabbing enough with its snakey texture and pointed toe to add some versatility and wow factor to your outfit. 2. Kate Spade Licorice Pump Seafoam Patent Another shoe in an elegant shape and contemporary colour. Slightly more muted and understated that its pink snake counterpart above, but just as fashion-forward. Wear with similar pastel colours, colour-clash it with some brights or add them to a monochrome outfit to jazz it up, this is a hard-working pump and the styling choices are endless. 3. Kate Spade Karolina Bow Porcelain Patent If ever there was a shoe with […]

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10 Must have pieces for spring

De-cluttering your wardrobe for the lighter spring months ahead is always a joy. Although not entirely ditching, but pushing thick knitwear, snow-proof boots and coats easily mistaken for blankets to the back of your wardrobe is liberating; they don’t say out of sight, out of mind for no reason! So, take your new season shopping cue from our edit of the top ten spring buys to snap up now and, weather permitting, next time you find yourself reaching into your wardrobe for comfort clothing, you’ll be met with the softest blouse, the brightest blazer and the most covetable denim dress imaginable. Go on; put a spring in your style step with our top picks below.   Denim embroidered dress, £42, Miss Selfridge:  The perfect spring/summer dress that acts as a great transitional piece, too. Wear with tights, ankle boots and a biker jacket for chillier days. Tory Burch Miles printed canvas sneakers, £110, Net-a-Porter: Sneakers in all guises are having quite a moment. If you’re not looking to splash out on the obligatory Isabel Marant’s, these printed canvas sneakers will do an equally brilliant job of putting a bounce in your step, not forgetting the comfort factor! 10 Crosby Derek Lam soft white red Mandarin collar blouse, £375, Oxygen Boutique: Far Eastern influences and minimalism were big trends on the spring/summer 2013 runway, and this gorgeously understated blouse is the perfect marriage between the two. Wing-collared blazer, £69.99, Zara: Wear this blazer with a simple white tee and wide-leg white trousers for a fresh take on boardroom dressing. The lemon yellow hue will trick every one around you into thinking summer has arrived (even though it technically hasn’t!). Link jumpsuit, £195, Reiss: This white jumpsuit makes us feel like a Studio 54 darling with a modern slant. Make it office appropriate […]

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The Casio watch: A timeless accessory

Want to get your hands – or more specifically, wrist – on a stunning accessory that will get you loads of attention from men and women alike? Let us rephrase – do you want a bold watch that looks like it has a designer price tag but will in fact only set you back £104.99? If the answer is “yes” then we recommend heading over to H Samuel right now and snapping up this sleek, stainless steel Casio watch before some other smart shopper beats you to it. This really is a timeless (no pun intended) piece of wrist candy that works for all occasions – day or night, come rain or shine, this is a watch for all hours of the day, for all seasons, and for all occasions. The black dial is slick, sexy, and attention-grabbing, and the silver display and dials only add to the chic factor. We love the handy date window too – why check your mobile phone for the date when you have another excuse to flash your watch?! The Casio men’s stainless steel bracelet watch even comes with free delivery – there are no excuses for not purchasing this bad boy right now! Head on over to H Samuel for more watches for men.

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London Fashion Week AW13: Highlights from Day 2

Despite being a little worse for wear, we were up bright and early for the second day of London Fashion Week – we weren’t going to miss the 9am DAKS show for the world! And boy are we glad we got out of bed for it! Day 2 was pretty packed, with autumn/winter 2013 collections from the likes of Julien Macdonald, House of Holland, Carlotta Actis Barone, Issa, and the highly anticipated Rihanna for River Island (among others) all making their debut. It was another successful day for celeb-spotting too, with the likes of Pixie Lott and all five members of The Saturdays showing their support on the Julien Macdonald front row, but the prize for most star-studded FROW definitely went to the one and only Bajan pop princess known as Rihanna. Even Cara Delevingne – who is usually on the catwalk herself – had the night off and enjoyed the show from her seat. Let’s crack on with the highlights, shall we? DAKS A strong and contemporary collection comprised of loose, layered, relaxed and tailored pieces. Lots of sleeveless numbers for all you sleeve-phobics, and a few leather pieces to grunge it up. Two pieces which stole the show for us were the tailored black jumpsuit, and the gold cropped vest top. Simply stunning. Carlotta Actis Barone  One of our most anticipated shows of the day – mainly because we got an epic performance from some ballet dancers during the show last season so we were expecting great things. There were no musical interludes this time around, but that didn’t mean we didn’t enjoy the show. Au contraire, the designer presented a much more muted and understated collection this season, with a high selection of instantly wearable pieces for both day and night. What it lacked in varied colour […]

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