Every girl has a go-to designer that makes them fall head-over-heels, literally, for a pair shoes. Be it that lick of red sole from Louboutin, Carvella’s colour-popping designs, or Jimmy Choo’s beautiful creations – but for me, it’s between McQueen and Nicholas Kirkwood. There’s just something about their innovative designs that bring a fresh, new breath of air to not only my feet, but my entire wardrobe. And these self-tie platform sandals from Kirkwood definitely don’t disappoint when it comes to the ‘wow’ factor. These beautiful nude patent leather sandals with metallic self-tie sash make for a key statement piece for next season. The Mary Jane is back on the fashion radar for AW11, and these Nicholas Kirkwoods work an innovative structure with just a hint of that old school, Mary Jane magic. I completely adore the round capped, peep-toe fronts (just perfect for showcasing the new metallic nail varnishes of next season) alongside their strappy accents and cut-out detailing. Plus, nude will bring that added touch of glamour to your chosen ensemble, while effortlessly elongating those pins. And though the shoe’s accompanying price tag is a little, er, large, when such a beautiful accessory is combined with such an iconic designer, it’s rather impossible to say no. Nicholas Kirkwood’s Self-Tie Platform Sandals, £779, available at My Theresa.
Read MoreSearch Results for “x factor”
Handbag Hunter: Valentino Rockstud leather bag
Say hello to Valentino’s Rockstud leather bag. With its delectable curving silhouette, black leather top handles and gold-toned pyramid-shaped studs, we should be falling head over heels for this little number. However, I’m not quite there yet. Perhaps it’s because I’ve already spotted the price-tag? At £1,235 you’ve got to hope that those studs are actual gold, and somewhere hiding in the depths of the bag there’s the keys to a small convertible. For this money, you’ve really got to fall for a bag – not feel slightly guilty about it being shoved to the back of your cupboard. And, when it comes to studs, I’m the kind of girl who likes to go all out. I’m talking something along the lines of Christian Louboutin’s studded bag a certain Cheryl Cole was working earlier this year. Now that was the epitome of rock and roll – it made my heart beat quicken at an intolerable rate and could be used as a suitable weapon if someone attempted to mug me. And so it goes that though this tote may be Valentino, it just doesn’t have the ‘it’ factor. Valentino Rockstud Leather Bag, £1,235, available at MyTheresa.
Read MoreWho wore it best? Kelly Rowland vs Terri Seymour in Aurelio Costarella
By now we know how hard it is for a celebrity to wear a unique dress that no one else on the planet will ever wear (unless you’re Ginnifer Goodwin in a one-off Topshop dress!). So it must be even harder for a starlet when someone younger and with more star power than you dons a identical dress a few weeks after your debut. This scenario happened to Terri Seymour, model and TV presenter, but mostly known for being one of Simon Cowell’s ex-girlfriends. She opted for the ‘Paris’ dress from Aurelio Costarella on the red carpet in LA. Her younger counterpart, in the same stunning one-shouldered dress, was none other than new X-Factor UK judge and former Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland. Kelly wore the dress to celebrate the release of her new album ‘Here I am.’ In an odd twist, both women styled the dress in pretty much exactly the same fashion – nude heels, a subtle bracelet and dark flowing tresses. Both beauties could have opted for a colourful pair of heels to make the beaded blush dress really pop against their skin tone The only question that remains is who wore this blush ‘Paris’ Aurelio Costarella dress best?
Read MoreJohn Galliano: Excuses of a fallen angel
As I pick up yet another issue of Vogue, filled with uncontrollable excitement at the thought of feasting my eyes on rich editorials, I feel a sudden rush of sadness as I look closer. It’s the September fashion issue and naturally calls for a day to be dedicated to reading it, but it’s also the issue which brings to light one of this year’s most catastrophic events: the demise of fashion legend, John Galliano. Although demise may be a strong word for someone so deeply ingrained in the fabric of twenty-first century fashion, it felt as such for those in the industry closest to him. Charlotte Sinclair’s The Turbulent Life of John Galliano (Vogue UK Sept issue) explores the eccentric designer’s meteoric rise and catastrophic fall from grace, and aims to examine the underlying reasons why, on that fateful night in a cafe in the French capital, did the man so recognised for his composure and dedication to fashion, drunkenly pounce on an innocent couple with racial and anti-Semitic slurs. Why did he declare his affection for the human root of racial evil Hitler? Although in great admiration of Galliano’s work and what he has done at both Dior and his (ex) namesake label, I was disappointed by the justifications given for his xenophobic behaviour. Sinclair’s lengthy feature voices the opinions on Galliano’s downfall from a range of sources, including past assistants; Galliano’s muse and long-term friend, Amanda Harlech, and the Dior house amongst others. Some of the views expressed were striking. Listing factors out of Galliano’s control: an unhealthy relationship with alcohol and prescription drugs; his hedonistic clubbing lifestyle and the untimely death of his father and Steven Robinson – his ‘”soul brother” and right hand man for 17 years, similar reasons Galliano addressed in his defence in court. […]
Read MoreDo wooden hats take your fancy?
Milliner Keely Hunter isn’t like most hat-makers, oh no, her head-worthy creations are made entirely out of wood.
Read MoreRTW Wanderer: Lanvin Mohair-silk coat with fox fur trim
The only good thing about a wash out of a summer is the anticipation of finding and purchasing your new winter wardrobe, and most importantly, your winter coat.
Read MoreHow to look polished, poolside
So it’s that dreaded wardrobe-assortment time of year again. You want to ensure you look sartorially slick, even if it means doing so in 45 degree heat with hungry shop vendors tugging at your newly-bought Missoni kaftan. But hey, all seems well when in holiday spirit!
Read MoreAndy Warhol ‘probably’ would have had botox
According to fashion designer Betsey Johnson, Andy Warhol ‘probably’ would have had Botox if he were alive today.
Read MoreWho wore it best? Kylie Minogue vs Rihanna in Emilio Pucci
Rihanna is a firm fashionable favourite of ours, having appeared in our in last sartorial battle, and this week she’s locked in a style skirmish with pint-sized veteran pop princess, Kylie Minogue, after both delectable diva’s looked uber-stunning in a cobalt blue Emilio Pucci spring 2011 number.
Read MoreDeal of the day: Reiss Grafton body bag
We love a boxy satchel style bag. We’ve spent many hours extolling their virtues, and if we’re honest, we can always find room for another. So if you can, too, we have the perfect mini treat right here for you.
Read MoreAzzedine Alaïa turned down creative director job at Dior
Tunisian-born couturier and shoe designer Azzedine Alaïa has reportedly turned down, what some may call, the job of a lifetime! And yes, we’re talking about the creative director title at Dior.
Read MoreAnya Hindmarch doesn’t want Kate Middleton to become a style icon
British accessories designer Anya Hindmarch has reportedly claimed she isn’t too keen on Kate Middleton becoming a modern day style icon. We think it’s too late for that, mind.
Read MoreFrankie Sandford gets tangoed in a see-through knit dress
The Saturdays’ Frankie Sandford is usually one to look stunning on a night out. Like her fellow beautiful band members, we’re often envious at how effortlessly put together she looks, but the brunette bombshell seemed to be having an off night at Mollie’s birthday bash at favoured club Mahiki.
Read MoreWhy snakeskin’s your fast-track to sexy
We’ve gone animal print crazy right now, and leading the pack is sleek snakeskin. A guaranteed head-turner for summer, it’s time to adopt a scalier approach to prints, as snakeskin has just climbed to the top of our style stakes.
Read MoreWhat were you thinking: Hailee Steinfeld in Louis Vuitton
When we heard Hailee Steinfeld was wearing something other than Miu Miu at last night’s MTV Movie Awards, we won’t lie, we were pretty excited to see what the tween pulled out.
Read MoreDeal of the day: Lucy Hutchings deco mixed stone ring
Looking for an evening statement piece with some serious wow factor? Lucy Hutchings’ deco mixed stone ring is all you need for any cocktail soiree – it’ll really pack a punch with its high fashion edge.
Read MoreLunchtime buy: Alice & Olivia Shannon printed maxi skirt
Rainbow colours are making our lives so much brighter right now, whether it’s a popping pink clutch or a cool canary blouse, incorporating colours into our daytime outfits is a sure sign summer is on its way.
Read MoreLove or Hate: YSL leather Tribtoo pumps
In the female population’s never-ending quest for the perfect high heel, few can confidently say they have found their dream shoe. This means we spend years traipsing around the high street, and even dabble into designer, in search of that elusive footwear. They have to possess the wow factor, combined with unparalleled comfort and vertiginous height. But a big A list following? Even better.
Read MoreGisele admits the difficulties of motherhood
Just when you thought Gisele couldn’t be any more of an all-round super – model, hero, mum – she’s finally revealed one redeeming factor: even she has difficulties being a working mum.
Read MoreFive minutes with Mulberry’s Emma Hill
Mulberry’s Emma Hill is one of those seldom stars who’s huge success hasn’t hindered her humility one bit. Before she joined the luxury British label in 2008, the brand was going from strength to strength under the creative direction of Stuart Vevers. Many thought he’d be a tough act to follow, but Emma’s distinct Brit-girl twist has brought the cult brand to a whole new bed of roses. Once celebrated solely for its iconic accessories, Mulberry’s ready-to-wear is now as sort after as its ‘It’ bags thanks, no doubt, to Hill’s hawkeye vision and inherent understanding of what women want to wear. But enough about the past, Mulberry’s – and Hill’s – future is getting more exciting by the minute. With the help of regular contributor Venetia Dearden, the designer’s spent the last three years putting together the brand’s latest venture: a photography book giving readers unprecedented access to never-before-seen images of Mulberry’s factory, of flame-haired models having a sneaky cig before fashion week, and of its many famed parties. We caught up with Emma at the book’s launch last week for a (very) quick chat about the book, her favourite holiday reads and what she’s got in store for the brand’s big 40th birthday… Tell us a bit about Mulberry the book… It was something we decided to do two years ago – well, over two years, because we were already thinking about the 40th [anniversary] – and we’d been working with Venetia Dearden. She’s such a great photographer and we love working with her so it all started from there, really. And also I think we’re quite a visual brand, we like to tell stories and we’re quite a mouthy brand so she [Venetia] became like a Mulberry and followed us round and came to shows. She’s gutted […]
Read MoreLunchtime buy: Jaeger ruffled pink pleat dress
Got the Monday morning blues? Turn that frown upside down, or rather, turn your blues into punchy pinks with Jaeger’s pleats. This bold babydoll dress from Jaeger has the kind of delicious detail to make us swoon – the soft silky fabric will cascade over your curves while the ruffled pleated hem adds real wow factor. We’d happily don this statement dress in the office, but we reckon it’s just too cute to be kept inside so we’ll be wearing ours to garden parties and summer soirees with towering heels, simple jewellery and ample attitude. And if the promise of the spotlight isn’t enough to sway you, maybe this will – if you spend £200 at Jaeger you can get a free black clutch worth £160. Sold? We think so! Jaeger ruffled pink pleat dress, £399, available from Jaeger. BUY NOW!
Read MoreMet Ball 2011: best dressed
We’ve just about recovered from the excitement of the Royal wedding with its vast array of stylish guests and, of course, Kate Middleton’s breathtakingly beautiful McQueen gown – but the weekend hit us with more star-studded events as the Met Costume Institute Gala landed in New York last night. The Met Ball brings the best of the fashion, film and music industry together for a night of fabulous fashion and exhibitions, and this year’s gala was hosted by none other than Vogue editor Anna Wintour, who honoured the late Alexander McQueen with an exhibition called Savage Beauty. Naturally, the prestigious event is harder to get into than Wonka’s chocolate factory, so we’ve cast our sartorial eye over the fashion elite who bagged a Golden Ticket and strutted their stylish stuff on the red carpet. Here’s our top 10 best dressed from last night’s Met Ball… Ashley Green She may play a vampire in Twilight, but Ashley Green managed to look positively angelic in a custom Donna Karen strapless gown. The nude voluminous tulle was adorned with silver sequins that trailed into a wedding-like train. Teamed with a sleek up-do and touches of sparkle in her ears, clutch and cuff, she looked positively radiant. Jessica Alba Always one to look utterly fabulous on the red carpet, Jessica Alba didn’t disappoint at last night’s Met Ball dressed in a custom Ralph Lauren platinum strapless bustier gown covered in a sparkly crystal-encrusted overlay that highlighted her growing baby bump. Blake Lively Being the face of Chanel has been a dream come true for this Gossip Girl starlet, and last night she was joined by Mr Karl Lagerfield himself. Naturally, Blake opted for Chanel couture by means of a nude embellished dress covered by silver-lilac a chiffon sash to flaunt her fabulous figure too much. Beyoncé […]
Read MoreDeal of the day: Reiss Julio double wrap belt
Now that the sun’s come out, so has the colour in our wardrobes. The rising temperatures have made us say goodbye to winter tones once and for all and wave hello to colour popping brights, and luckily for us, neons and crayola colours are everywhere right now. And that means we can wear this Julio double wrap belt from Reiss with cool colour confidence. Featuring a contrasting silver buckle and eyelets and complementary red stitching, this leather belt is the easiest way to add a rainbow piece to your outfit. Wear it to break up colour blocking separates or with statement stripes for real wow factor. We’ll be sporting the red version for top fashion marks, but we also love the tan for a smarter look. Head over to Reiss now for today’s style injection for just £45. Julio double wrap belt, £45, available at Reiss. BUY NOW!
Read MoreDeal of the day: Cheap Monday skinny cords
One of our favourite trends right now is coloured denim. Seen on countless celebs, you get all the comfort of your skinnies with a fresh spring update (plus admiring glances from fellow fashionistas) – what’s not to love? These skinny cords from Cheap Monday are just the thing to lighten our mood and our wardrobe this Easter Monday – the cool rusty colour isn’t too big a splash but still has a high fashion impact and will go hand in hand with spring’s obsession with the Seventies. But of course it wouldn’t be a deal without an amazing price tag to match the style factor, so you’ll be pleased to hear these jeans come with a massive 70% off, now just £56.67 £17. Plus, if you visit farfetch.com before 26th April you’ll get free shipping – even better! Wear with a floppy Seventies hat for off-duty chic, or dress up with layers of luxe necklaces – you’ll just have to race us to the checkout for these on-trend lovelies (our collection of bright jeans for summer starts here). Cheap Monday sky blue skinny jeans, £17, available at farfetch.com. BUY NOW!
Read MoreDeal of the day: Jaeger amethyst cuff
We’ve seen a lot of gold and brass hammered jewellery this season, and we love its luxe look and versatility, which is exactly why we love this amethyst and brass cuff from Jaeger – perfect for playing dress up. Cuffs are the jewellery du jour for effortless elegance, and this one’s the real deal, with the glam gold effect base giving real wow factor. The chunky amethyst stone detail provides a unique touch and gives it that little something special, and, if purple isn’t your colour, you can also pick up the same piece with a natural amber stone. At £75, this cuff is well worth it for its wearability. Wear at the office to jazz up workwear staples or keep it in your bag and slip it on in the evening for easy summer glam. Jaeger amethyst and brass cuff, £75, available at Jaeger. BUY NOW!
Read MoreTop stories this Week: Burberry rocks Beijing, John Galliano sacked from own label, Topshop’s Dress Up launch and MORE!
Burberry in Beijing: Tackling fashion with technology has been taking over the minds of the fashion gods lately. Luxury British brand Burberry landed in Beijing on April 13 – all gadgets and contraptions aboard – to create an extraordinary visual and sensory experience. The event staged on the 2000 square metre stage at Beijing Television Centre marked the first of its kind, introducing virtual image technology, live models, animations and life-like holograms to the fashion world. Read more here! John Galliano sacked from namesake label: It appears, since John Galliano’s racial mêlée, he is continuously being ousted from the very fashion clique that made him the couture success he is today. News has been confirmed of John Galliano’s sacking from his eponymous – and 91 per cent Dior-owned – label, with much concern surrounding the future of the brand. Read more here! Valentino and Elle launch ezine partnership: Luxury fashion label Valentino launched its second ezine partnership this week with Elle magazine – along with the help of three leading style bloggers. The recent gossip circulating fashion bloggers’ roles in the industry has attracted much attention, so featuring the ezine on the successful sites spells guaranteed success. The three chosen bloggers include Susie Bubble of Style Bubble, Leandra Medine of Man Repeller and Catherine Kallon of Red Carpet Fashion Awards. Read more here! Angelina Jolie launches jewellery line – Style of Jolie: Angelina Jolie certainly is the real-life Lara Croft. Perfectly balancing an ever-growing family and empire, Ange has added a luxurious line of fine jewellery to her already overstretched list of entrepreneurial achievements. The line, called Style of Jolie, boasts semi precious stones and glittering diamonds, and has been created in collaboration with jeweller Robert Procop to raise money for Jolie’s charity, Education Partnership for Children in Conflict. Read more here! […]
Read MoreTamara Mellon on how she first met footwear designer Jimmy Choo
While rumours continue to circulate over whose next in line to take over the Jimmy Choo franchise, the label’s founder, Tamara Mellon, has revealed how her partnership with the famous footwear designer began.
Read MoreDiane Kruger’s dated double denim
We’re so used to seeing Diane Kruger looking nothing less than perfect that we were quite shocked to see photographs over the weekend of the actress looking… well, not so perfect. A close friend of Karl Lagerfeld, it’s very rare that she puts a foot wrong. From her red carpet Chanel gowns to her dressed down, indie chic ensembles, the German beauty has always been high up on our best dressed list – but she was clearly having an off day last weekend. Arriving at LAX airport, undoubtedly after a long flight, means we can overlook the flat booties and oversized knit. After all, comfort is an essential factor when travelling. But it’s the double denim combination and yellow sunglasses we can’t forgive. Sure, we’re all for mixing and matching denim, but this is so last season, Diane. This is the woman who bagged our teenage crush Joshua Jackson, though, so we’ll let her off with a casual warning this time… What do you think of Diane’s double denim? [poll id=”79″]
Read MoreBruno Frisoni gives his verdict on Kate Middleton’s Royal wedding footwear
Roger Vivier’s artistic director, Bruno Frisoni, has decided to give his two-pence worth when it comes to what Kate Middleton should be wearing on her big day later this month – and for once, it’s not about her wedding dress!
Read MoreDeal of the day: French Connection Dakota clog
We love a good flat shoe. Cute ballet pumps, pretty sandals – who doesn’t need versatility? – but in this often fast world of fashion, we could never turn our back on heels. As such, we’re totally digging French Connection’s Dakota T-bar platforms for their stylish on-trend feel and comfort factor. Perfect for summer, these platform clogs are the ideal day-to-night shoe. Channelling all things Seventies, these chunky heels could be straight out of your mum’s D-I-S-C-O loving wardrobe if it weren’t for their contemporary twist. In hot to trot tan with buckle ankle straps and stud detail, these spring-ready clogs are a bargain buy this season for fun, flirty footwear. Wear with a floaty maxi for summer days to channel your inner hippie chic, or dress up for the dancefloor, safe in the knowledge that you can last all night. French Connection Dakota platform clog, £65, available at French Connection. BUY NOW!
Read MoreMore Blake Lively Chanel ads
Everyone knows by now that Gossip Girl star, Blake Lively, is the face behind Chanel’s latest campaign ad for its range of Mademoiselle handbags – so just as news is rife, we give you yet more pretty pictures to ponder over. Having already showed you a quick glimpse into some of the previous pictorials, it looks as if the second batch is just as exciting as the first – with Blake looking positively stunning, naturally. Complete with tousled blonde hair and an absent smile from the American dream girl’s face, Blake homes in on the seductive glam factor Chanel simply love – making way for a set of truly stunning images. But wait, the fun doesn’t end there – thanks to Fashionista we can catch an exclusive behind-the-scenes shot of Karl Lagerfeld and Ms Lively having a good ‘ole chin wag. Oh, to be a fly on the wall, eh?
Read MoreJohn Galliano could face imprisonment
After news broke that John Galliano was heading to rehab in order to help treat his alcohol problem – a factor that contributed to last Thursday’s events – the situation now seems far worse than once thought, as the former Christian Dior creative director could now face imprisonment for his alleged racial crimes. Last night, Sky News announced that the Paris Prosecutors Office has decided to put Galliano on trial to face the alleged racial accusations made against him. The formal proceedings are set to take place in the second quarter of the year, which means the outcome of the trial won’t be known for at least a few more months. But if the designer is subsequently found guilty, Galliano could face six months imprisonment or fined €22,500 (£19,085), reports Vogue UK. Either way, the end result doesn’t look good.
Read MoreLondon Fashion Week AW11: Mary Katrantzou
Who: Mary Katrantzou What: Electrifying prints, structured skirts and separates. Thoughts: Mary Katrantzou received rave reviews last season so she was under a lot of pressure to deliver with her latest offering. She needn’t have worried, though, because once again her beautiful use of prints came up trumps. In rich, jewel shades with patterns ranging from birds to florals to mosaics she threw caution to the wind, adorning everything from slim trousers to pencil skirts in exquisite detail. Although she reissued the structured lampshade and peplum skirts she’s becoming synonymous with, she compounded her collection for autumn/winter 2011 and made it more wearable than in previous seasons by introducing separates. Sleek, knee-length skirts, trousers and leggings were all key parts of Katrantzou’s look, mixing and matching them her eye-catching prints. Surprisingly, the collection finished with an entirely different angle – floor-length dresses with loose billowing silhouettes introduced a more feminine, if utterly regal, side. Not for the faint-hearted but if you want to stand out, Mary Katrantzou’s got the wow factor.
Read MoreLondon Fashion Week AW11: Meadham Kirchhoff
Who: Meadham Kirchhoff What: Eerie Pagan school girls, shrines, and sinister dark layers Thoughts: We’re not sure if what we witnessed was a runway show or a ritualistic march at Meadham Kirchhoff yesterday, but we’re rather fond of what we saw. Starting with a finale, the designer duo put on what must be a record short show of about four minutes with all models storming the catwalk at once in army-like precision – they appeared again, briefly, before Ben Meadham and Edward Kirchhoff popped out with a thanking wave, alerting the audience they should’ve clapped at the second stomping. It was actually very effective, and very clever. With shrines to the designers in the centre of the runway and a piercing Psycho soundtrack, the label’s autumn/winter 2011 collection is signature-sinister with models that look part Pagan, part peasant, part school girl hitting the ground in heavily layered looks. Black pinafores were layered over white ruffled shirts and smocks were worn with white collars tied with black velvet ribbon; peasant blouses had ethnic-looking embroidery, exaggerated puff sleeves and frayed, fringed edges; demure white lace dresses peered out of black slit coats or were layered over black versions. Vibrant red interjected the macabre monochrome palette in little woollen jackets, shapely smocks, knits and hits of lace. Long-hanging crucifix necklaces on black and white beads added to the religious-like effect, while models’ hair, coiled into two bunch-like halves, came tied with black lace or velvet bows. It was dark, decadent and, to be honest a little confusing, but its shell-shock factor is a resounding success, especially at second glance.
Read MoreGiles Deacon adds Rihanna to his fan base
When big events such as the Brit Awards roll around, stars want to look their best. And instead of wearing any old dress, pop sensation Rihanna asked Giles Deacon to specially design her stage outfit – and of course, Giles accepted.
Read MoreEmmanuelle Alt and Carine Roitfeld are no longer speaking
When Carine Roitfeld decided to step down from her editor-in-chief post at Vogue Paris late last year, the fashion world was, naturally, spilling over with unanswered questions – not least how her new replacement, Emmanuelle Alt, would handle the highly challenging role.
Read MoreJessica Alba in Valentino
Whilst attending the New York premiere for her latest comedy flick, Little Fockers, actress (and all-round superstar) Jessica Alba wore a stunning Valentino frock for the special occasion. Looking rather angelic dressed in all white, the mum-of-one effortlessly pulled off this teeny-weeny micro number, while the signature Valentino tassel and frill detailing gave this red-carpet dress that all-important style-stealer factor. Sporting a new-found shorter hair ‘do, the Hollywood star certainly bumped up her high fashion credentials with this barber shop choice – not to mention those stunning silver Louboutin stilettos – an all-round winner in our eyes. Does she ever ever look anything less than flawess?
Read MoreLuxury gifts for her: Merle O’Grady Varvara necklace
If statement necklaces are your thing, look no further, for they don’t come much bigger and better than Merle O’Grady’s Varvara necklace. In her signature tough-luxe styling, the combination of black Swarovski crystsals and multi-layered gold chains give this vintage-inspired party stealer the ultimate wow factor – and one that’s guaranteed to turn every head this Christmas. So don’t shy away at your New Year party; get your fashion fix with this achingly cool stand-out neck piece – you’ll want to wear it with everything from simple tees to striking after-dark dresses. Merle O’ Grady Varvara Necklace, £297, available exclusively at my-wardrobe.com. BUY NOW!
Read MoreCher Coulter’s top party accessories
This is a guest post by Cher Coulter, celebrity stylist, best friend to Kate Bosworth, and one-half of JewelMint, the new jewellery label that recommends bespoke designs based on your personal style. But she can introduce herself better than we can. Cher Coulter is a top Los Angeles-based stylist, whose client list includes Kate Bosworth, Sienna Miller, Katie Holmes, and Scarlett Johansson. Known for combining easy avant-garde with absolute glamour in her women’s styling, Cher possesses an equal talent for men’s fashion. Cher and her dear friend Kate Bosworth recently launched their very own jewellery line, JewelMint, which provides members with high-end jewelry for $29.99/month. We asked Cher to pick her top party accessories to share with you, our lovely readers, to have you sparkling like a celeb this Christmas. See below for her favourites… 1. Topshop Velvet Bow Clips, $15.“These are so Sixties, so swinging and so festive! To style, either beehive the back of your hair and stack them in the nest on top, or wear two on one side. So cute!” 2. Paillette Flap Bag by Chanel, $6000“This is the perfect party bag because you can sling it across your body and throw your hands in the air on the dance floor – but nothing will get lost!” 3. Sparkle Calf Sock by American Apparel, $9“For a fun look, team up these socks with those plain old pumps you just love. This is a cheap way to jazz up your outfit!” 4. Mystic Fall Earrings by JewelMint“These show-stopping chandelier earrings are the perfect party accessory. Try the Ganesh earrings for a more feminine look, or the Piet earrings to up your cool factor! Pull your hair back to give these pieces lots of perfect light to sparkle.” 5. Celestial Wreath Necklace by JewelMint“Want to feel like a […]
Read MoreSteep vs Cheap: metallic mini skirts
A metallic mini skirt is the perfect way to spice up your party look this festive season, especially when it’s laced with luxe textures and embroidery – after all, you can’t go wrong with a spot of decadence. For those of you with a bit of cash to spend, this statement golden silk-jacquard skirt from See by Chloe is the answer to all your high end needs. The sumptuous molten shade makes way for the perfect Christmas show-stopper, not forgetting the tonal graphic weave finish which takes the ever-stylish mini to a whole new fashionable height – but at £118, this one-off luxury may be a little out of reach from most of our hands. But don’t worry, we’ve found a cheaper alternative from House of Fraser at eBay Fashion Outlet for just £9.99 – yes, seriously. This gold acetate micro skirt by Untold oozes sleek sophistication, creating a chic but understated party number – plus, the subtle cinched-in waist and puffed lantern design gives this little beauty the ultimate feminine festive factor. See by Chloe Silk-Jacquard Skirt, £118, available at theOutnet.com. BUY NOW! Vs Untold Gold Lantern Skirt, £9.99, available at eBay Fashion Outlet. BUY NOW!
Read MoreMAC cancels its Rodarte collection
Remember the outrage when news of Mac’s Mexico-inspired Rodarte collection hit the blogosphere? Well it goes to show the power of opinion, because MAC has just cancelled that very collaboration.
Read MorePretzels spark pro-anorexia controversy
Last time we had a pretzel, it was two inches thick, completely stodgy and covered in salt, but we’re clearly not up to speed – Pretzel Crisps, aka the snackers’ delight, has been advertising its thin and crispy versions on bus shelters in New York City recently, but its slogan has sparked outrage.
Read MoreMac’s Rodarte collection causes controversy
If there’s one way to blow up the blogosphere, you can bet insensitivity regarding the impoverished lives of foreigners will do it. And that’s exactly what Mac and Rodarte have done with their new collaboration, Mac Rodarte.
Read MoreRaf Simons and Fred Perry Shirt
Oki-ni do like their collaboration pieces, and guess what? So do we. That’s why we wanted to share this little beauty with you, yes one of the latest pieces to be added to the Oki-ni site, this great short sleeved shirt from a collaboration between designer Raf Simons and iconic sports lifestyle brand Fred Perry. The slim fit gives this shirt a really simple feel, but the iconic Fred Perry logo detail gives the shirt that instantly recognisable factor. The real style is in the details such as the small button down collar and the classic Raf Simons tailoring. Wear buttoned to the top without a tie for a contemporary take on office-smart or team with your coolest pair of jeans for a super stylish casual look. Raf Simons and Fred Perry shirt, £125 Oki-ni.
Read MoreLunchtime buy: 3.1 Philip Lim sequined tuxedo vest
Sparkle in the sun this season with this luxurious 3.1 Philip Lim sequined tuxedo vest. We might be many months away from the party season but we’re all for daytime sequins to catch the light of that glorious sunshine! The eye-catching cover-up will take you from day to night and will transform any outfit, adding that all-important glitz-factor to jeans and tees and LBDs. And another thing: It’s reduced! £740 £370 from The Outnet.
Read MoreGuillaume Canet in Yves Saint Laurent
Yep, that’s it right there. That is how to wear a suit. French actor Guillaume Canet shows us how it’s done as he attends the premier for the Woody Allen film ‘You’ll meet a tall dark stranger’ at Cannes this week. That is – how to wear a suit and look effortlessly stylish whilst doing so. We can’t decide whether the secret is in his nonchalant pose or the fact that he’s wearing top-to-toe Yves Saint Laurent in the form of a black tuxedo, white shirt, black tie and black lace-ups. We’ve got a sneaking suspicion that it’s probably both of these factors, coupled with an annoying yet admirable ‘je ne sais quoi’ that French men have when it comes to dressing. Oh and there’s one more rather dazzling addition that contributes to Guillaume’s effortless cool, and that’s in the form of the very beautiful Marion Cotillard. Guillaume’s girlfriend Marion looked stunning at the Chopard 150th anniversary party earlier in the week wearing a Lefranc Ferrant sequined jumpsuit. We’re looking forward to seeing their creative talents brought together as Marion stars in ‘Les Petits Mouchoirs’ later in the year – a film directed by the very stylish Guillaume.
Read MoreMET Ball 2010: Eva Longoria Parker in Marchesa
It’s rare that Eva Longoria Parker gets it wrong when it comes to picking the right dress and her appearance at the Costume Institute Gala recently is no exception. Wearing red-carpet favourite Marchesea her platinum crepe column gown steals the show as Eva channels old style glamour with her side parted set and wave hair. The silver embroidery adds a touch of classic detailing to this contemporary take on the floor length gown, and the flared cascade skirt adds real wow-factor to the dress. Doing floor length dresses in oyster, cream and neutral shades is a venture into a difficult area as looking like a bride-to-be is always a distinct possibility, but the ankle-revealing length teamed with her fierce shoes firmly puts this dress in red-carpet domain. It’s a really sophisticated look for Eva and against her warm skin tone the champagne colour of the dress looks stunning – a true A-list starlet in a truly A-list designer.
Read MoreDoutzen Kroes in Rachel Roy
Enviably gorgeous model Doutzen Kroes makes us wonder why we’d ever opt for a LBD again when a LGD (little green dress) can look this good. Ok, so we may not have her Victoria’s Secret body, but wearing this piece from top stylist Rachel Roy’s clothing line Doutzen proves that a burst of colour is the smart option when it comes to achieving the wow factor. With clever cut-out detailing at the waist, this otherwise classic dress is given a contemporary twist, as well as creating an exaggerated hourglass figure. The bold jade green colour makes a real statement and makes the most of the trend for jewel coloured brights. Doutzen keeps the look simple by pairing the dress with killer heels, in this season’s most wearable shade – nude. If you want to go for a similar look, we’ve found this jade green fitted shift dress from Oasis for £75. The zig-zag detailing at the waist creates a panel that elongates your body so you won’t need to worry about that Victoria’s Secret figure after all. Buy it here now.
Read MoreTom Ford’s womenswear comes closer
The buzz surrounding Tom Ford’s much-anticipated return to womenswear is building as the latest rumours reveal he’s currently developing a design team to make the dream a reality.
Read MoreMelvita Organic Beauty Launch
A totally organic beauty brand sounds like just the thing for a busy girl-about-town whose skin is crying out for a gentle touch. French company
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