Search Results for “rita ora”

Barbour still reigns supreme

by on 26th March 2015 0 comments

The Barbour jacket – it’s as quintessentially English as Big Ben and Pimms. While this iconic brand was once the uniform of rural aristocracy (think polo playing girls and pigeon shooting gents), a growing celebrity fan base including Kate Middleton, Little Mix’s Perrie Edwards, Alexa Chung and former boyfriend Alex Turner have made it both mainstream and seriously cool. The trend is showing no sign of losing its appeal. With everyone wearing theirs a little differently, the Barbour is not only a style must-have, but a very flexible one too. Countryside chic Princess Diana can be credited with single-handedly bring the Barbour jacket to the masses. Wearing a green Barbour for a more casual, relaxed look, she was the poster girl for the fabulous ‘Sloane Ranger’ look that would later lead to a rise in sales of not only Barbour but Harris Tweed and Hunter wellingtons. Still a strong look for strolling in the great outdoors, wear the green Barbour with a thick knit jumper and high-waisted tweeds. Girly cool Back in 2007 Lily was at the forefront of the new Barbour wave, wearing her waxed Barbour jacket over a hoody and bright pink dress throughout her performance at Glastonbury. Instantly making Barbour accessible and effortlessly cool, a whole host of celebs followed suit and built Barbour into their festival fashions, and later into urban wear too. Make like Fearne Cotton and Alexa Chung by teaming the classic black waxed Barbour with cord collar with short, girly dresses or A-line skirts. Smart and masculine And if you thought Barbour was just for the ladies, think again. When Daniel Craig donned the Beacon Heritage Sports Jacket in Skyfall, sales of the jacket soared as bloggers and internet fashionistas waxed lyrical about how an already hot Mr Bond looked even hotter. The jacket was […]

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The Best Winter Skincare Regimes

by on 22nd September 2021 1 comment

The days are drawing in and the temperature’s dropping, so as well as hats, scarves and Christmas presents, it’s time to start thinking about winter skincare. It’s no surprise that those bitingly cold but beautifully clear winter days can bring with them more than a rosy glow to the cheeks. For some people, winter weather can mean dry, cracking skin, as it’s forced to endure extreme temperature fluctuations caused by chilly late-night shopping trips followed by holing up at home with the heating turned to max. As soon as we turn the heat on indoors, the skin begins to dry out. Chapped lips and blotchy, flaky skin become a real problem, and common skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea can be exacerbated. So what can be done to protect the skin from the worst effects of winter? We recommend changing your skincare routine to suit the weather changes. We’ve put together some ideas on the best winter skincare regimes to help you embrace the festive season. Before we get started it’s important to note that when you decide to start a skincare routine at the beginning of a new season you may get overwhelmed by all the terms and beauty products that are out in the market. The best thing? Keep it simple. Here we highlight the essential products to add to your skincare routine this winter. Supplements and Foods As the nights get longer, we often reach for stodgy, comfort food that can have an inflammatory effect on the body. You won’t be surprised to hear that good skincare starts from the inside, so thinking about your diet can be the first step towards healthier winter skin. Instead of pies and pastries, sufferers of eczema and ‘winter itch’ should up their intake of essential fatty acids, found in […]

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Brave the cold with these warm and cozy Barbour winter jackets

by on 25th October 2021 0 comments

The cold season is well and truly upon us. As the nights draw in and the mornings are filled with frost, we’re dreaming of cosy knits and toasty winter jackets. Before heading out to brave the bitter cold, harsh elements of a British winter, it is essential to wrap up warm, so in true British fashion, make sure you bag yourself a heritage style Barbour jacket. Stylish, practical and authentic, the Barbour brand has been going for over a century and their latest collection is really, really impressive. The Barbour ethos has always been to create high quality, beautifully crafted pieces, which get better with age. Their latest collection is a return to their roots with sophisticated uses of leather trims, protective fabrics and expert lining resulting in timeless outerwear with a contemporary tint. Here are a few of the Barbour jackets to look out for this winter: 1. Barbour Black Skipper Jacket Celebrating Barbour’s military heritage, the Skipper jacket has an evidently nautical theme running through the design. Dome buttons and a tailored belt give the jacket a luxurious aesthetic which would look so smart paired with black jeans and winter boots. Made from 100% wool, this would definitely keep you warm during the big freeze. One for the Christmas list. 2. Barbour Rustic Ordanance Jacket The vintage feel of this jacket is second to none; even though it was manufactured this season it looks like something produced in an era gone by. The shearling style fleece lining is really on-trend at the moment and this style would go with everything. Barbour took inspiration for this design from the aviator flight jackets which originated during World War 1 when airplanes didn’t have enclosed cockpits. The jackets were created as a protective layer to keep pilots warm and the style […]

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Paris Fashion Week SS15 highlights from Jean Paul Gaultier, Givenchy, and Celine

by on 29th September 2014 0 comments

George Clooney’s wedding wasn’t the only exciting thing that happened at the weekend. Paris Fashion Week continued to give us brand spanking new spring/summer 2015 collections from some of the biggest fashion designers in the world, and as usual, we saw some ground-breaking and memorable stuff. The Jean Paul Gaultier spring/summer 2015 show was an emotional one, as the designer showcased his last ever ready-to-wear collection. (He’ll be focusing all his attention on Couture from now on- click here for more deets.) So, it was only right that he went out with a bang, and that’s exactly what he did. JPG paid homage to all the industry figures who have shaped his impressive career; Grace Coddington, Franca Sozzani, Suzy Menkes, Carine Roitfeld, Emmanuelle Alt all ‘featured’ on the runway, making the show a truly unforgettable one just the way JPG intended. Elsewhere in Paris, Riccardo Tisci presented a great, mostly monochromatic collection for Givenchy (with the Kim Kardashian and little North West obviously sitting pretty on the front row to support an eyebrow-less Kendall Jenner), while Phoebe Philo was clearly inspired by the one and only Kate Bush (who is currently touring right here in Britain) for her latest Celine collection. Check out all of our highlights below: Jean Paul Gaultier Givenchy Celine

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AW14 Jewellery Report: Spring Fair & LFW

by on 29th July 2014 0 comments

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

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Five of the Most Lavish Celebrity Weddings

by on 15th June 2014 0 comments

No one does weddings like celebrities; spectacular, wildly extravagant nuptials are not uncommon when movie stars and other famous brides and grooms tie the knot. We can try to replicate the same grandeur with all the diamond rings and fancy things we want. However, there are a few celebrity weddings that truly stand-out from the rest of the pack. 1. Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston were married in a sunset ceremony in July of 2000 on a Malibu, California estate. Guests included Courtney Cox, David Schwimmer, Salma Hayek, and Cameron Diaz. The theme of the event was a “Zen garden” and included 50,000 flowers plus candles in the reception tent. A gospel choir and four bands performed, and guests were served lobster and champagne at the reception. A Fireworks display topped off the evening. 2. Donald Trump and Melania Knauss No list of most lavish anything would be complete without real mogul Donald Trump’s name somewhere on it. He wed model Melania Knauss in Palm Beach, Florida in January 2005 and the reception was held at Trump’s stunning Mar-a- Largo Club. The bride wore a 50 pound Christian Dior wedding gown that featured 1,500 beaded crystals, and a 13 foot train. Some of the guests included Barbara Walters, Katie Couric, Rudy Giuliana, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Simon Cowell, Regis Philbin, and Kelly Ripa. The ballroom of Mar-a-Largo was made to look like Versailles for the reception and was decorated with 10,000 flowers. 3. Tiger Woods and Elin Nordgren A grand wedding is no guarantee of marital bliss, but Tiger Woods and Elin Nordgren certainly got married life off to a royal start. They married in 2004 at the exclusive Sandy Lane Resort on the Caribbean island of Barbados. Woods rented out the entire resort in an […]

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The Beauty of Glass Art in Prague

by on 6th June 2014 0 comments

As soon as men discovered the process of producing glass they saw the beauty in it and used it for art. Early archeological finds discovered decorative pieces made of glass that were thousands of years old. The structure and looks of glass have inspired countless artists and a sheer endless variety of different processes to produce glass art: stained glass windows, leaded lights, moulded glass, glass blowing, sandblasted glass, copperfoil work and many more. Glass art undergoes a real renaissance right now. It was always popular, but in recent years more colleges are offering courses in glass related work. Many amateurs as well as professional artist create glass art, following the long heritage of artists that came before them. Classic Glass Art in Prague Prague, as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, has its own very close relationship with glass art. Not only was it a hub for many famous and talented artists (and still is), there are also some of the most famous glass art pieces worked into the face of the city. Some very fine examples are the world-renowned stained glass windows of St. Vitus Cathedral. The Roman Catholic cathedral (which is called in full St. Vitus, St. Wenceslas and St. Adalbert Cathedral) located in the center of Prague is not only one of the most beautiful churches in the world, but also the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. Its architecture is an glorious example of of finest Gothic architecture and the building can look back at a very rich history. It contains, for example the tombs of many kings and emperors. It took over 600 years to finish this awesome piece of architecture. In 1929 it was officially completed, including the stained glass windows by the Czech artist and desinger Alfons Maria Mucha. […]

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Marks and Spencer profits fall for third year

by on 20th May 2014 0 comments

Despite enlisting some of the hottest, most influential and most famous A-listers for its ad campaigns over the past 12 months, it’s just been revealed that Marks and Spencer’s profits have once again dropped for the third year in a row. While the food sales are on the up, it’s the clothes which are reportedly dragging the brand down… “General merchandise is not yet satisfactory,” said chief executive Marc Bolland. “But a lot of the heavy lifting has been done. Rising profit takes a while to follow. We are improving step by step.” Marc blamed things like “unseasonable conditions” and “high levels of promotional activity” for the dip in sales, although M&S fans should know that profits did in fact rise in the last three months of the year which is a nice and positive piece of information to retain. So what does this all mean for the brand and the future of the British high street as a whole? Only time will tell, although Marc Bollard doesn’t think we should worry! [BBC]

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Jeremy Scott brings Moschino to London!

by on 15th May 2014 0 comments

Jeremy Scott really is keen on putting his stamp on the Moschino brand and making everyone remember his name! After impressing the critics with his debut collection back in February, he is now giving us another thing to talk about. The designer has decided to take the upcoming Moschino menswear show from its home in Milan and bring it to London! British fashionistas and fashionistos, rejoice! Milan residents (and the rest of the world) shouldn’t fret though, as Jeremy Scott is reportedly keen to keep mixing things up in the future. This might mean that the Moschino shows are taken all over the world, or it might mean that they will return to Milan… the possibilities are endless! The Moschino menswear show will be part of the London Collections: Men showcase, and will take place on Monday June 16th. Are you excited about the move or do you think the Moschino shows belong in Milan? [Fashion United] [Image]

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The best make-up artists to the stars

by on 13th May 2014 0 comments

The average person may not be able to afford the services of a top make-up artist – but it would be silly to ignore some of their top tips. While it may seem that the stars of stage and screen are flawless, this is helped in no small part by the work of such women as Gucci Westman, Alexis Vogel, Jackie Tyson, Bobbi Brown and Laura Mercier. Alexis works in all areas of the entertainment industry, making up everyone from top models to big names of the stage and screen. She has worked with such icons as Pamela Anderson, Kelly Clarkson, Sharon Stone, Lisa Marie Presley, Paula Abdul and Bo Derek. Trendsetter She says she has been an image-setter for 25 years and claims her unique skill is inventing new styles and looks. She believes looking great starts before you even reach for your cosmetics case. Wearing a good facial sunscreen is one of her top tips. Bobbi Brown is one of the most famous make-up artists in the world, showing off her work on the front pages of such magazines as Elle and Vogue, and selling her cosmetics line to Estee Lauder. Bobbie’s natural style She became well-known for her natural style in the 1980s, which was hugely different to the colourful palettes used by many of her contemporaries. One of Bobbi’s top tips is to choose an under-eye concealer which is one or two shades lighter than your foundation. Gucci works with big names such as actresses Jennifer Garner and Demi Moore, whilst Laura is probably best-known for her range of make-up. Jackie is the make-up artist for Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor. Safety first When thinking about make-up products, there are many available to help you follow tips from the experts, but the top advice […]

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7 All-season shorts to slip into right now!

by on 21st April 2014 0 comments

Although we’re at risk of coming across overambitious, we can’t help but imagine wearing our complete summer wardrobe RIGHT. NOW. Maxi dresses? Yes please. Floaty palazzo pants and barely-there silk camis? We’re in. But what about the ultimate staple of the warmer season: shorts? Feeling brave enough to, well, brave a pair? With Coachella been and gone, and Britain’s festival season knocking, you’re bound to wear shorts at some point in the coming weeks.  So, gearing you up for some serious leg-flashing action is our round-up of all-season shorts to click home right now. Fan of floral prints? This belted version will see you through the summer nicely. If you prefer slick, tailored styles, Carven has created just the pair you need; perfect worn with a crisp shirt and ballet pumps. So, what are you waiting for? Ditch all things full-length, and let your pins embrace summer already. 1. Floral lightweight shorts, £29.99, available at Mango. 2. Moto ripped mom shorts, £32, available at Topshop. 3. Textured shorts, £29.99, available at Mango. 4. Chloé polka-dot cotton shorts, £195, available at Matches Fashion. 5. Carven straw chevron shorts, £289, available at My Theresa. 6. Helmut Lang leather and cotton shorts, £345, available at My Theresa. 7. Linen tencil-blend shorts, £29.99, available at Mango.

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Mary Katrantzou teams up with Adidas Originals

by on 21st April 2014 0 comments

Sportswear has never been more fashionable, especially now it’s been announced that Mary “Queen of Prints” Katrantzou will be teaming up with Adidas Original for a long-term partnership! We can expect the collection, which will be comprised of clothes and footwear, to debut in November this year! “I’m really excited to be working with Adidas on a line of apparel and footwear,” the London Fashion Week designer said. “I grew up, like so many other kids around the world, wearing Adidas sneakers and I’m really excited about bringing my vision to such a global brand. “They have a fantastic heritage and their ability to innovate in sportswear makes them the perfect partner for us to work with in this market.” True story! No excuses to avoid the gym or going for that run now. And since the collection will be launching at the end of the year, we think we already know what we’ll be asking Santa for… [Vogue]  

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Twinings Infusions and Huffington Post create work and lifestyle portal

by on 21st April 2014 0 comments

We love a good cup of tea. We challenge you to find a British girl who doesn’t.  And we also love surfing the net for fun and interesting stories when we’re having a well-deserved break from work. So imagine our delight when we learnt that our two favourite things – tea and reading – were coming together in an epic we-can’t-believe-this-hasn’t-been-done-before collaboration. Twinings Infusions has teamed up with Huffington Post to create a 10 Reasons Why It’s Good to Gossip at Work article was particularly interesting and informative – and what girl isn’t partial to a bit of gossiping? The boys might have you believe that gossiping is bad, but in actual fact, the article states that “good gossip” is necessary for the good of humanity. This is something we can definitely get on board with, and you can too – especially if you work with a small group of people and interaction with your colleagues is key.  “A lot of gossip is driven by concern for others and has positive, social effects,” said Dr Robb Willer, co-author of The Virtues of Gossip. “We find that those who engage in this form of gossip are generally driven by sincere desires to help others,” he continued, before adding that it also eases frustration and makes people feel better if their gossip has a chance to help others at the same time, too. “More generous people are more likely to engage in this form of gossip.” And there we were feeling guilty about our love of gossiping with the girls all these years! Where would we be without this portal, eh? Another article which we particularly enjoyed while sipping on a hot and tasty cup of Twinings Infusions was the one entitled

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Alesha Dixon embraces spring in bold House of Holland skater dress

by on 11th March 2014 0 comments

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

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Mother’s Day Gift Guide: The Luxury Edit

by on 4th July 2023 0 comments

Make the special woman in your life feel appreciated this Mother’s Day with our luxury edit of gorgeous gifts. Be it a lavish lunch, spa pampering day, designer handbag or bouquet of fresh flowers, spoil her with high-impact gifts. Fresh Scented FlowersNothing says “I love you” like a delivery of gorgeously scented blooms. Shower your mum with love and affection by sending her flowers for Mother’s Day. Choose from a gorgeous range of flowers and bouquets. From flower arrangements featuring garden roses hand-tied with herbs and foliage to signature hat boxes, flowers are the perfect way to show appreciation on Mother’s Day. Rather than choosing the first bunch that catches your eye, take time to figure out which colours and scents your mum likes the best. Take her home interior into account too, if she’s fashion-focused then a fusion of colourful blooms could be just the ticket, on the other hand if she’s a woman of simple pleasures, a bunch of red roses may be just as effective. Either way, her face is guaranteed to light up when presented with a bouquet of fresh blossoms. Award winning luxury florist, The Real Flower Company are one florist company boasting an impressive collection of Mother’s Day flowers and gifts. The Spring Garden Bouquet perfectly captures springtime with its gold and purple colour scheme. The gorgeous golden roses arranged with purple clematis and beautiful blue hyacinths make for a truly special Mother’s Day gift. Designer Arm CandyFeeling generous? Why not say it with a designer handbag. Yummy mummies will be delighted with a glamorous designer handbag. From covetable clutches to grab bags, high end brands such as Fiorelli stock up-to-the-minute handbags in a plethora of colours and styles. Select a handbag which will easily blend into her existing style such as the Francesca […]

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Paris Fashion Week AW14 highlights from Anthony Vaccarello, Corrie Nielsen and Tex Saverio

by on 26th February 2014 0 comments

Anna Wintour was in a bit of a rush to leave Milan for Paris (she even missed the Giorgio Armani show!), but was the first day of Paris Fashion Week worth leaving the Italian city early for? Well, we don’t know about that, but the designers that showcased their autumn/winter 2014 collections in the French capital certainly wowed the crowd. ANTHONY VACCARELLO AW14 Anthony Vaccarello (Nicole Richie and Jennifer Lopez are huge fans – and it’s not hard to see why!) made sure the first day of the fash pack’s last stop in Paris was a memorable one, with fierce red and black looks dominating the catwalk. Minimal and wearable daytime ensembles were juxtaposed with short and tight evening pieces (J-Lo will no doubt be all over the new-season pieces) with chains and metal finding their way on the garments in a sleek, slinky and sinfully sexy way – a signature Anthony Vaccarello collection with bags of attitude! We particularly loved the attention he paid to the collar – he attached it to pretty much everything, and everyone! TEX SAVERIO AW14 We expected big things from the Tex Saverio autumn/winter 2014 collection; the Indonesian designer has been on our radar ever since it was announced that he was the creative brains behind Katniss Everdeen’s Hunger Games wedding dress, and we certainly weren’t disappointed with what we saw in Paris. A black, gold and silver colour palette dominated the new collection, as did pieces that came in big shapes and sizes. It was all about volume, something which was very apparent in the large and in charge skirts and a gorgeous laser cut cape in a deep shade of red that we have a feeling will be making its red carpet debut in the next few months. CORRIE NIELSEN AW14 Corrie […]

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Orla Kiely and Clarks collection launches today!

by on 4th February 2014 0 comments

Orla Kiely has teamed up with Clarks for a print-tastic capsule collection for the spring/summer 2014 season – her first footwear collaboration, ever. And she’s certainly kicked things off with a bang! “I always wanted to design a footwear collection and for me Clarks was a very natural fit – particularly with their world renowned heritage and quality,” Orla said. “Starting out from my original collection of bags and ready-to-wear, to the current wider lifestyle range I’m really proud of, it’s brilliant to now be able to add a stand-out shoe range to complete this. “We worked closely with the amazing Clarks team to create our vision and I can’t wait to see women worldwide wearing them!” The collection features her signature colours of green, mustard, navy and red, and represent Orla’s design heritage and Clarks’ passion for style and substance. There’s definitive nod to the 60s and 70s in the designs, especially in the mustard yellow beauties featured above. Our favourite piece from the collection for sure, although the choice was pretty tough! Click here to check out the full collection.

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7 Of The Most Unusual Luxury Villa Rentals For Your Next Break

by on 6th January 2023 0 comments

At one point or another, everyone’s been on a trip where you end up staying in the kind of hotel where everything is exactly as you expect it. Same bed, same furnishings, same tiny little kettle in the corner – hardly worth mentioning in your postcard home. And then there are the kind of places you’ll remember staying in for the rest of your life. Strange, quirky and unusual destinations that are just (if not more!) memorable than their beautiful and exotic locations. If you’re looking for a luxury villa to rent that you’ll be talking about for years to come, the following may just catch your eye… 7. The Observatory, South Africa Definitely one for the romantic stargazers out there, and families with kids who have a wild sense of adventure. Not only does The Observatory (as the name suggests) have a fully functioning, research grade observatory tower, over 12,000 acres of South African game reserve surround the complex, yours to explore on quad bikes, horses, or even a helicopter. A truly mesmerising and unique family holiday, The Observatory has its own private staff and bush guides to ensure everybody’s safety and comfort. Sadly, those looking for a true safari experience might be disappointed – the fabled ‘Big Five’ are in short supply in the area, but this does mean overnight camping and walking enable you to truly appreciate the majestic landscape. 6. Chateau de Chiffre, Languedoc, France De Chiffre might sound a bit like the name of a Bond villain, but thoughts of world domination will hardly be a top priority if you choose to stay at this unique luxury villa. A converted windmill in the heart of a vineyard, De Chiffre is secluded enough to offer total tranquillity but close enough to the coast that a beach […]

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A Weekend Of Sport, When There Is No Sport

by on 9th October 2013 0 comments

For many men throughout Britain, the weekend is a period that’s best expended when entirely dedicated to sport. There are some unfortunate weekends however, when there aren’t many top-quality sporting fixtures played. The consequence is two days of solitude, as we strive to conjure up enough activities to make us forget about the great hole in our weekend and our love for sport. We usually get through such weekends in one piece – but only just about. Either way, I wouldn’t wish sport-less weekends on my worst enemy. Here are a few things you can do to bring a bit of sporting light into those dark and gloomy weekends.   Kempton Park One of the very few benefits of a weekend in which there aren’t many decent sporting fixtures is that it allows us to spend more time with our families. Kempton Park is a way to do this without distancing yourself away from sport completely. One of the world’s most venerable horse racing grounds, Kempton Park is a sporting institution and a proud piece of Britain’s rich sporting heritage. Even when there are no fixtures on, there is much to do at Kempton Park that’ll make it well worth a weekend trip. As well as a few bars and cafes, Kempton boasts a range of delicious food spots including their Panoramic Bar and Restaurant and a Best of British spot offering fish and chips, pies and mash and curries. There is also the Trattoria Pizzeria with delicious freshly baked pizzas. Concerts are often held at Kempton, while they host a regular antiques market there on Sundays. They also have a range of children’s activities, making it ideal for families. Accommodation is also possible and it’s for such reasons that many choose to spend their whole weekends at Kempton. Join […]

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London’s secret fashion districts

by on 14th April 2016 0 comments

London street style has dictated fashion trends through the ages, with plenty of iconic styles in each era tracing their roots back to the capital. A short walk around the city is more than enough to prove that quirky, individual and outrageous dressing is alive and well today – the only trick is knowing where to find it. If you’re looking for a brilliant fusion of vintage and modern styles, take a walk down Carnaby Street, best known for being a centre of both mod and hippie styles back in the 60s. Today you’ll find plenty of references to their illustrious style credentials, given a modern twist by the new trend-setters of the day. A short walk away near Regent Street is the Newburgh District, filled with boutique stores, high-fashion finds and up and coming designers. This is where you’ll find the future of fashion, with emerging stars beginning to make their mark on London’s shoppers. It’s also a great showcase for the capital’s diverse ethnic and cultural influences, with shops referencing 60s punk, tribal traditions, Bollywood glamour and even some Victoriana. Some of design’s more established names sit side by side with the new kids on the block, so this is the perfect place to head if you like to stay one step ahead of the fashion pack. Out towards the east of the city, you’ll find an edgier, grungier side emerging. Spitalfields Market sits nestled in a historical hotspot, hosting some of the most eclectic stores and stalls that London has to offer, and home to the hipster trend taking over teen fashion. There’s a great mix of contemporary and vintage fashion, so you’ve got a good chance of picking up a retro gem hidden among the stalls. Nearby in Brick Lane, you’ll find the city’s fashion students […]

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London Fashion Week SS14 Day 4 highlights

by on 18th September 2013 0 comments

Osman Taking a more summer appropriate (natch) approach for spring/summer 14, the vivid pinks and limes of last year were watered down to pretty pastels, with flashes of dainty embellishment. Skirts were sometimes gauzy, cut asymmetrically to produce a floaty effect that made the fabric appear like it slid away from the body. Voluminous coats, surprisingly, are a key piece for next season, given their not so climate appropriate use in summer (well, it is Britain after all), and a three-quarter sleeved candy pink number worn over black trousers won us over. Not so much a winner: the skirt-over-trousers look – it’s far too don’t-wanna-go-there Nineties for us! Erdem Always a show season biggie, Erdem’s tougher stance on the runway was welcomed with opened arms. After enticing us with zingy neons, expertly combined with fragile lace for spring/summer 2013, this time around, he took us on a monochrome adventure. Still working his famed ladylike wearability into this high impact collection, Mr. Moraliaglu gave us sheer skirts sat pretty atop couture-level sweatshirts; a come hither black lace gown was made more wearable over a crisp white shirt, and neat collar and pocket details brought a somewhat masculine edge to his work. Shoes remain major, however – a far cry from the kind of dainty strap sandal you’d wear with an Erdem number: think rebelliously chunky platform soles made interesting with splashes of bold print. Tom Ford High octane as always, Tom Ford’s show was, possibly, the hottest ticket of the fashion month schedule this side of the Atlantic, making the hearts of several editors beat faster than they do on deadline day. A lesson in indulgence it was, as Mr. Tom Ford set about presenting the most luxurious of oversized leathers in burnt caramel; a sexed-up, thigh skimming dress dripping in […]

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Swarovski Collective SS14 designers announced

by on 23rd August 2013 0 comments

Three cheers for sparkle on the catwalk! We think the Swarovski Collective – where designers are given the opportunity to adorn their pieces with crystal – might be one of the best Fashion Month inventions ever. And the designers that will be collaborating with the crystal maestros have officially been revealed. And they are, drumroll please… Alexis Mabille, Sister by Sibling and Michael van der Ham! “It is a huge honour to be part of the Swarovski Collective especially considering the heritage; with designers such as Elsa Schiaparelli and Christian Dior having collaborated with Swarovski in the past,” Michael van der Ham said. “Swarovski crystal is an amazing element to have within the embellishments this season, mixed with other couture embroideries for a set of cocktail dresses. The Swarovski crystal collection is of such a high standard and is so vast that it really lifts the textures and the garments themselves.” Since its launch in 1999, the Swarovski Collective has supported over 150 designers, both established and up-and-coming, from the likes of Christian Dior, Mary Katrantzou and more. We’re excited to see how these new recruits will incorporate crystal into their creations! [Vogue] 

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My Fashion Life visits Bern, Switzerland

by on 23rd July 2013 0 comments

Imagine having an app for all aspects of uncharted territory in life; from how to navigate your first day at secondary school, to battling boardroom blues at the new work place, and even how to survive a nerve-racking first date? So, when we were invited by the Total Media team to test drive the Make My Switzerland app, ahead of its official launch, in the beautiful capital of Switzerland, Bern, we jumped at the chance. Our penchant for luxury watches and fine chocolate aside, we were excited to put the app to the test, which has been created by the Swiss Tourism Board in conjunction with local ambassadors representing the various cities the app covers. Here’s our low-down on the app, and our time in Bern: The city Unlike most capital cities, Bern is knows for its laid-back take on life. With the average walking speed of Bernese people at a relaxed 1.5m/sec, they’re in no rush. And, frankly, we don’t blame them – the city is beautiful! Situated an hour’s train ride away from Zurich airport, transport links are great, and purchasing a Swiss Pass is the easiest (and cheapest) option when using public transport. Home to 100 fresh water fountains; a bear park, which is very popular with tourists; six kilometres of shopping arcades; the refreshing River Aare for an exhilarating swim; Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity, and the founding place of world-famous Toblerone chocolate, we couldn’t wait to work our way around the cultural hotspot using the app. The app The Make My Switzerland app allows tourists in Switzerland (and locals alike) to get the most out of the Swiss city they’re visiting. Covering Bern, Zurich, Lugano, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne and Lucerne, the app is split into four ‘moods’: cultural, social, stylish and active. Depending on your city, […]

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Downton Abbey cosmetics coming to Marks and Spencer this October!

by on 11th July 2013 0 comments

We are counting down the days til October for two reasons. 1: the return of Downton Abbey. And 2: the launch of the Downton Abbey cosmetics line! Put the fake tan down and embrace your Edwardian-style porcelain skin – the 10-piece Downton Abbey cosmetics range (complete with memorable quotes from the show, natch!) will sell exclusively in Marks and Spencer from October 12th to coincide with the premiere of Season 4. And if you think this is just another budget cosmetics range with a famous name attached to it, you should think again.. “Every single product design comes to me for personal approval so we don’t bastardize the brand,” said executive producer Gareth Neame. “We’re selective about what we do. Fastidious. But it is a show for Middle America, for Middle Britain. It’s not an opera or a Merchant Ivory film or something,” he continued. “It’s getting massive audiences around the world – and there is a market for people wanting to possess something of that identity.” The show’s executive producer is also behind a clothing line that we told you about a few months ago, but there’s still no official word on when that will be launching yet. Keep your eyes peeled! Are you looking forward to the Downton Abbey cosmetics range? [MSN] 

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3 steps to dress for success with style

by on 19th July 2013 0 comments

Power dressing is not about shoulder pads and a pair of loafers as is often portrayed in the media. Women in business can dress for success as much as their male counterparts but with the added bonus of not being restricted to wearing a suit everyday. Dressing authoritatively can help you to get ahead, but you should take note of a few pointers to ensure you get the balance right. 1. Don’t spend the earth The expression is “fake it ‘til you make it” which means you haven’t made it yet, so there’s no need to spend a fortune if your bank account can’t handle the hit. Shop on the high street or online to find cheaper alternatives to recreate the look you’re going for. Start as you mean to go on and get your finances straight so when the time is right your favourite designer labels are within reach, to run a credit check to get started simply click here. 2. Dress for you Dressing for success is not just about the image you project. When you spend time on your appearance and you feel more confident your productivity subsequently increases. This means that by creating a version of you externally that is powerful and successful, you will start to reflect this in your demeanor. 3. Keep your personality There is a temptation when trying to dress in a successful and businesslike manner to become quite masculine; this does not have to be the case. Pair a well-tailored skirt suit with a delicate floral blouse, or wear a smart dress you love with a sharp jacket or add hints of colour by accessorising your outfit with tones and patterns you love. The key is to make sure what you wear retains some of your personality at the same time […]

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Full Figured Fashion Week 2013

by on 9th July 2013 0 comments

Easily the brightest event in the fashion calendar for plus-size women, Full Figured Fashion Week (17th – 22nd June 2013) in New York celebrated its fifth year with the usual sumptuous style. Fabrics flowed, necklines were sharp and chic, prints were there to catch the eye and silhouettes were as curvaceous as they come. If you missed any of the action, here’s a quick recap on the highlights of this year’s FFF week. The events in the showcase were worth the price of cheap flights to New York in 2013, that were available through various operators, alone. Sunset cruises, advice on make-up artistry and Tuesday’s Curves for Cure show, complete with celebrity models standing against breast cancer with some inspired pink outfits. Special mentions here go to basketball-mum Lucille O’Neal in a bejewelled halterneck frock and the woman behind it all, Gwen Devoe, showing off some one-shouldered flounce. Of course, it was the Indie Designers showcase that everyone was waiting for, and Friday’s catwalk collections did not disappoint. Big shoulders and cinched waists reigned at German design house Amiiee, while Britain’s very own Live Unlimited London did us proud combining beautiful soft sheers with curve-enhancing patterns. Australian sister-collective Huudaverti brought a tantalising mix of textures to the show, with furs, glitter and a peekaboo velvet cloak which would have been the envy of Little Red Riding Hood. Elsewhere, ZMJ Denim came up with some eye-dazzling ways to wear jeans, with high-waists and super-flattering fits all-round. Boutique fashion label Sonsi showcased the best of their designs with the season’s hot colours of orange and aqua done peplum-style by City Chic and some stand-out rose prints by IGIGI. And it was a tribal triumph at Rue 114, with ruffles, pleats and tutus ensuring all eyes were on the runway. There’s something genuinely […]

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Kim Sears stuns in Victoria Beckham dress for Wimbledon men’s final

by on 7th July 2013 0 comments

Her boyfriend won the Wimbledon men’s title, and she was sartorially triumphant in the audience – yesterday was definitely a good day for Andy Murray’s girlfriend Kim Sears. Andy Murray made history yesterday afternoon, as he became the first British male tennis pro to win the Wimbledon title since Fred Perry a whopping 77 years ago, which we think deserves a hearty round of applause. So Andy Murray was indeed the big winner on Centre Court, but his girlfriend Kim Sears also wowed the crowd with her stunning outfit as she enthusiastically cheered him on. She stole the show in a gorgeous mint green dress from the Victoria Beckham spring/summer 2013 collection (VB, who was also in the audience, would have been proud!) which she accessorised with her trusty nude Mulberry Willow tote and matching nude wedges. Is the Mulbs bag her lucky charm? We think so! Murray Mania is bigger than ever, and we predict the fashion world is going to be keeping an even closer eye on Kim’s outfits from now on too. Congrats again to Andy Murray – Britain is super-proud! [Image] 

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Fashion Charts: 5 things going up, and 5 things going down this month

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Going up Festival beauty: Suddenly, we’re all raving in fields and bubblegum blue mascara is perfectly acceptable. Festival season’s taking over, but it does come with its downfalls. Lack of hot showers and long queues for toilets can bring out the worst in use, but there isn’t much that pink semi-permanent hair colour, bright eye shadow and feather lashes can’t sort out. Transatlantic takeovers: On a non-fashion note, we can’t help but feel proud of the American intervention we’ve recently experienced. From J-Lo’s raunchy antics on Britain’s Got Talent to Alicia Keys taking her adorable son to a theme park in the Midlands and Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher’s secretive pub dates. And then there’s Jessie J, debuting her delicious new look (oh, that bod!) in the video for her latest video Wild, featuring Big Sean and Dizzee Rascal. Fashion’s future: Graduate Fashion Week is nearly coming to a close, and the idea of seeing fresh, emerging talent taking its first steps into this challenging industry is exciting. With over 1,000 BA fashion graduates from 40 UK colleges showing their collections, alongside students from 16 universities around the world including Parsons and FIT, in New York, will the next Christopher Bailey or Stella McCartney be discovered? The two most famous Ks: One’s a certified royal, and the other is also part of an establishment better know as the Kardashians. Both are due to give birth pretty soon and we can’t wait to see Kate Middleton cooing over the royal tot’s frilly hat, and how many diamonds will adorn Kimye’s daughter’s cot. Blue Ivy, who? High Street denim takeover: Yes, that’s right. Although it’s not earth shattering news, it is when the high street’s most cost effective name takes on a dot com domain! Asos will become the newest home for […]

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Is a brazen approach to the sheer trend inappropriate?

by on 27th May 2013 0 comments

To boob, or not to boob? Well, that’s the question on our minds today, as we dissect a very brave fashionista’s take on one of spring/summer 2013’s biggest trends. Dangerously extrovert outfits and street style go hand in hand, and given the exhibitionist nature of some street style darlings, a little nip slip is the least of their worries. One of Mr. Newton’s latest camera lens victories (pictured above), Italian blogger and shop owner, Eleonara Carisi could certainly be forgiven for leaving her, erm, bra at home, given that the sheer trend dominated the runways this season. But is this an awkward visual, or do you think its fine? More importantly, is it wrong to sport no bra in the name of fashion? Whilst you ponder on this, let us remind you that every certified fashion name, from Dries Van Notes to 3.1 Phillip Lim and Haider Ackermann to Reed Krakoff dabbled in the next-to-nothing take on dressing. But sheer wasn’t simply transparent for spring 2013, instead given a more wearable quality thanks to a ‘veiled’ effect of layering and mixing fabrics. Well, it clearly wasn’t the way Eleanora had imagined translating this trend…. Without sounding too prudish (maybe it’s our inner Brit; we don’t know!), we were a little, well, taken aback by Eleonara’s breast display, and that too in the middle of New York, and not during Fashion Month either (see: exhibitionist note above). Seeing full-front boobage in glossy editorials is commonplace, and not an eyelid would bat at the sight of see-through featherweight fabrics swathed across barely-there bosoms on the runway, but what of a normal street style shot of a (normal) blogger in what appears to her to be a normal outfit? We don’t men to push it too far, but public nudity is still an […]

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Fashion Charts: 5 things going up, and 5 things going down this month

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Going up Punk fever: The punk revival was well and truly felt at this year’s Met Ball, with added thanks to Miley Cyrus’s outlandish barnet and Madonna’s flesh flashing shenanigans. But will it last? We hope the magical era is here to stay for good, so we can break fashion rules and paint our (not so flat) stomachs with anti-gun slogans. Check out our Punk inspo moodboard for your fix. Gatsby fever: Taking a detour from crazy hair and garish outfits, the other era the fashion world is currently dabbling in is the Roaring Twenties. With Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby set for release next week in the UK, expect a rise in opulent hair accessories, art deco prints and more flapper dresses you can shake a jazz dance move at! Shop our top Gatsby-inspired pieces here. Festival kick off: Although the major headliners are taking place smack bang in the middle of summer, several niche festivals are taking place this month, which can only mean one thing; getting your festival wardrobe into gear. Check out our top 10 picks here. Embellished tees: Luxe tees have been gaining momentum amongst the fash pack for some time now, so when we laid our peepers on the embellished 3.1 Phillip Lim Nueva York tee , we were sold at hello. The new low sandal: Or, dubbed the ‘Elvis’ sandal, thanks to the rhinestone detail; embrace summer’s new take on the gladiator sandal but with a flattering (read: pain-free) heel. Look to Isabel Marant for a high end hit, or Zara and Mango do equally stylish, pocket-friendly versions. Going down Glove sleeves: Come on, Kim! What were you thinking? Dressing to flatter your bump, we understand, is priority, but hand concealing doesn’t really come in to it. Enough said. Winter coats in spring: After experiencing […]

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Mulberry opens first German store in Berlin

by on 9th September 2014 0 comments

Good news for all our German readers – or those who are heading to the country for a spot of shopping in the not-so-distant future. British luxury brand Mulberry (a MFL fave if you haven’t worked out by now) has just opened its first ever store in the country, and it’s situated in the very stylish street of Kurfürstendamm in Berlin. “We’re delighted to be opening our first store in Germany,” said Mulberry CEO Bruno Guillon. “We chose Berlin for the rich culture between the city’s history and its artistic heartbeat, we felt the city’s vibrancy and energy was the ideal complement to the Mulberry brand and our own heritage of craftsmanship and creativity. “Europe is still a key growth market for Mulberry, so to open a store in a strong city location like Berlin is a significant milestone for our expansion plans in this region. Over the long term we want to see Mulberry extend its reach as a global luxury brand, known for its leather craftsmanship and English sensibility.” Mulberry collaborated with respected Berlin artist Frank Hülsbömer on a bespoke in-store installation which will be on show until the summer, so it’s definitely work checking out if you find yourself in the area. The store will stock leather bags and accessories (including a Willow Tote in Biscuit Brown Alligator that is exclusive to the shop), shoes and pieces from the latest ready-to-wear collection. Will you be paying the store a visit?

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Casual Friday! 5 playful spring skirts for office to after work drinks under £20

by on 11th April 2013 0 comments

Working ladies, this one’s for you! We know the importance of making your wardrobe stretch to that extra event, and, well, the most important event of the week has to be post-work drinks on a Friday evening, right? Well, instead of carrying an extra change of clothes, the easiest way to get into work-free mode past 5pm is to slip into one statement piece for the day, which you can easily formalise for work, and take straight to the bar afterwards. OK, so we’re not talking about turning up to work ready for a night out, but a casual skirt thrown into the sartorial mix will prove a game changer come Friday evening. Check out our pick of five super-stylish spring skirts all under £20 (that’s more dosh for drinks), that’ll instantly transport you from behind the Mac to sitting in front of a margarita in no time! £16.23, Vero Moda: The wrap effect and bow detail give this skirt an informal edge, whilst the muted purple tone keeps it office appropriate.  Team with a tucked in, cream silk blouse and pumps for work. Post-office, team with a statement clutch and shoe boots. £9.99, Missguided: Checker board prints are a huge trend favourite for spring/summer 2013, and we can’t find a more cost effective way to invest! Team with a soft black knit and heels for day, and throw on a leather jacket and statement earrings for the bar. £8, Boohoo: If you’re looking for a statement print without breaking the bank, this marble print midi skirt hits the mark. The pencil silhouette says office, whilst the print is perfect for post-drinks partying. £16, Asos: Wear this baroque print mini skirt with tights and ballet flats for work. Slip into heels after 5pm, and brave the elements without tights if you can! £14.99, H&M: The digi-floral print […]

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Anna Wintour donates designer handbags for Beating Bowel Cancer charity auction

by on 10th April 2013 0 comments

We know that Anna Wintour is a charitable woman who loved a good fundraiser – let’s not forget that she helped raise $40 million for President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign. Therefore it should come as no surprise to learn that she is in the giving spirit once again, only this time she has donated two bags to the Beating Bowel Cancer auction which is taking place on eBay. The bags in question are gorgeous cream and orange Reed Krakoff Boxer Tote beauty (see pic above), and the Salvatore Ferragamo Fergie Braided Leather Gancini Hobo. How generous Ms Wintour! “She’s a really nice lady,” said auction organiser Dafydd Jones. “If you don’t ask you don’t get, I do this in my spare time I work full time, I send genuine approachable from the heart e-mails and I manage to get some really nice stuff. “Through this auction I want to raise awareness of bowel cancer, so more people know what to look out for and aren’t afraid to talk about it By raising funds for Beating Bowel Cancer, more patients and their families can be supported by the charity.” Click here to see the bags and to check out what other items have gone under the hammer. [Telegraph] 

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Festival Fashion for Summer Fun!

by on 24th May 2013 0 comments

As Britain shifts into the spring months, the summer festival season is nearly upon us! Whether you are a regular attendee of Shambala, Sonisphere, Download, V, Reading and other festivals around the UK, you will probably remember the big mud fields last year. We are all keeping our fingers crossed in 2013 for glorious sunshine. However, you should better be prepared for the unpredictable British weather – just in case – whilst staying on trend with these festival fashion ideas… 90’s revival Great news, 90’s fashion is back! This welcome trend not only allows you to revel in nostalgia but this fashion decade was also practical with warm and durable pieces, which are now perfect for a week or weekend of camping! Key pieces include warming checked shirts, dungarees, and cargo trousers. This versatile trend also allows you to express your grungier side with leather jackets, oversized sunglasses, denim and baggy jumpers or go more feminine with crop tops and miniskirts. A good leather jacket will become a valuable investment which will last for years and will also come in handy at any time of the year. You can pick up a lot of grunge pieces with added tassels which was a big spring/summer catwalk trend this year. Floral Try this fun trend from head to toe as seen on the catwalks and celebs this year with long flowing dresses for sunny, lazy afternoons in camp. Alternatively, a short summer dress will keep you cool whilst still being functional and quick to put on in the morning. Layer a floral dress with long sleeved tops and jumpers for cooler evenings. Alternatively, why not wear jazzy floral wellies or boots for fashionable yet durable footwear? Team a floral look with lots of scarves and Contemporary Jewellery as seen at Kenzo and […]

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Would you wear jewellery made from recycled guns?

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

The term ‘recycling’ can be applied in many contexts, for example, the recycling of plastic; ‘vintage’, the more uptown term given to the recycling of your maternal grandmother’s Hermès handbag, or, the recycling of an era by way of a particular fashion trend. But what about the recycling of deadly weapons, fashioned into decorative jewellery items that are worn to adorn and make beautiful, yet with such an ugly and sinister history? Well, this was the exact question we found asking ourselves when independent jewellery designer, Jessica Mindich teamed up with the mayor of Newark, New Jersey on the Caliber Collection. By-lined as a ‘Shot of Style. Jewellery’s Secret Weapon’, the collection includes slogan tees and chic brass and steel cuffs and bangles made entirely from the shell casings found at gun crime scenes, and illegal guns taken of the streets by the Newark police department, respectively. Feeling a little confused by it all? Well, it gets even weirder, as each arm-candy status deserving cuff and bangle comes freakishly stamped with the weapon’s original serial number. Furthermore, wanting people who purchase these bracelets to understand the seriousness of the message they promote, the Caliber bracelets come packaged in a bag resembling an evidence bag, rather than the usual jewellery wrapping choice of tissue in a box. Mindich, originally from Connecticut, is a lawyer and founder of charitable jewellery brand, Jewelery For A Cause. She teamed up with Mayor Cory Booker after they met at a conference addressing the heinous issue of gun crime in late 2011. Inspired by Booker’s motivation to bring change, and combining their passions, Mindich came up with the idea of creating a jewellery collection to benefit Newark’s gun buy-back amnesty program. The collection serves to promote a positive change in attitude towards gun crime, with an aim […]

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Banish your blemishes!

by on 18th December 2012 0 comments

We know we always harp on about clothes and accessories that you need in your lives, but we can’t forget about those essential beauty products either. Don’t rule out beauty buys as cute little stocking fillers, secret Santa pressies or general gifts for the ones you love this Christmas – and that’s yourself included! We’re all going to be getting glammed up these next few weeks for those Christmas parties and New Year celebrations, and that doesn’t just mean putting a gorgeous new frock on and slipping into some sky high heels. It also means that we’re going to ditch our natural make-up for something just that little bit more special to achieve that wow factor look… and our skin might suffer as a result. Layering on the make-up is never great for the face, but luckily we found a product that can help restore it to its smoother, blotch-free self in no time. We know that irritated or red skin can be a visual and literal pain, and all the make-up we pile on it might make it look better temporarily, but doesn’t do it any favours in the long run. So instead of suffering in silence or not doing anything about it, why don’t you treat your skin with a wonderful blemish balm from Dr Med Christine Schrammek Kosmetik available at her BB cream shop. It was developed especially for irritated, large-pored and impure skin, and the texture with panthenol and bisabolol is said to calm the redness of the skin. It comes in three different colour shades, which means it just got easier to cover up all those imperfections without layering on the foundation and risking the skin getting even more irritated with the vicious cycle. And best of all, the BB Cream has a soft matting […]

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What happened at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2012…

by on 8th November 2012 0 comments

Here it is guys, the post you’ve been waiting so patiently for… the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2012 details and pictures! Classic Victoria’s Secret Angel Adriana Lima – who only gave birth a few months ago if you can believe it – kicked off the show by stepping out onto the beautifully decorated catwalk first. An abundance of the most gorgeous, sexiest and expertly selected models then followed her lead until newbie Toni Garrn eventually closed the show once all the Angels and singers had done their thing. And speaking of singers… Bajan sauce-pot Rihanna, Justin Bieber and Bruno Mars provided the musical entertainment for the evening, while Alessandra Ambrosio was given the honour of showcasing this year’s Fantasy bra. What do you think of her efforts below? And as we mentioned earlier this week, this year saw the Victoria’s Secret debut of two of our favourite young British models Cara Delevingne and Jourdan Dunn. We think they did a cracking job bringing a touch of Britishness to the proceedings, and we love how they showcased young, fun and quirky clothes as opposed to just lingerie. Karlie Kloss, who made her VS debut last year, looked like she had been walking on the Victoria’s Secret runway all her life, showcasing a variety of different, diverse but very sexy looks. We can’t get enough of her, and it’s not hard to see why the modelling world can’t either. And obviously all of the classic Victoria’s Secret Angels were present too, with the likes of Miranda Kerr, Candice Swanepoel, Erin Heatherton, Lily Aldridge and Doutzen Kroes being just some of the familiar faces making an appearance. Not only was the show an ultra-glamorous affair, but it was also a pretty charitable one too, as Victoria’s Secret and CBS reportedly donated $1 million […]

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Five Minutes With Designer Marios Schwab

by on 17th September 2023 0 comments

Yesterday we showed you all eight gorgeous looks from the highly anticipated Marios Schwab for Debenhams Edition collection, and as promised, it’s now time to treat you to the interview we conducted with the main man himself. We managed to peel Marios away from the launch of the collection for five minutes, and asked him to talk us through the range in his very own words. We also asked him about his muses for the collection and what his absolute favourite dress was… he even divulged some interesting and unmissable styling advice! So without further ado, we present you with five minutes with the legend that is Mr Marios Schwab. Enjoy! Tell us, how did this amazing collaboration come about and why did you want to go ahead with it? Well I’ve been asked from Debenhams to do a capsule collection of signature key looks that are an interpretation of the Marios Schwab brand, and it was interesting to meet a completely different customer and adapt signature key pieces from the signature of the brand. I certainly want to make people dream when they wear my stuff and feel enhanced and elevated because that’s what fashion should be about; it should feel like you’re living a true fantasy. What’s the typical customer for the collection? It’s for somebody who is quite specific; the customer is very fashion conscious and she likes to look at fashion from a different angle and it was interesting for me too as it was a learning curve and it was an open minder. You need to challenge yourself in different ways of producing the garments and it was really interesting to do it together with the Debenhams team. Were there any challenges? There’s always certain obstacles that you’re going to meet from a project that’s […]

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London Fashion Week SS13: Day 5

by on 19th September 2012 0 comments

Yep, it’s the final day of London Fashion Week (sniff), and as the old saying goes, some of the best shows were saved til last… especially when referring to the Mulberry show that kicked off at 10am this morning! Those of you following us on Twitter will have already seen a few cheeky pictures that we took of the collection, the celebs, the gnomes (yes, there were gnomes), the complimentary rainbow cakes and even an adorable Mulberry-clad dog we met in the queue called Berry! However, now it’s time to get up close and a little more personal with the collection, as we’ve selected a few of our stand-out looks for you to gaze at below. We also attended the Ashish show this afternoon, which we thought was a perfect ending to a wonderful spring/summer 2013 season in London. Who: Mulberry What: Rainbows, watercolours – an “English summer” at its best. There was a bit of a mix on the Mulberry catwalk this season; we had a feeling we were going to get a colourful collection from the paint set invite, but it was a tasteful, refreshing bit of colour as opposed to something more wild and overbearing like in some of the collections we’ve seen this LFW. (That’s not to say we didn’t like them, au contraire we love a good burst of colour, but we love Emma Hill’s balance.) There was an abundance of leather in the collection, as well as relaxed shapes and silhouettes – perfect for summer! We saw new visions for the classic Alexa and Del Rey bags, and Mulberry also launched the Willow collection, which we’ll tell you more about at a later date. Highlight: We had the Mulberry Monster last season, and while we don’t think anything will top him, the little – […]

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Get Katherine Heigl’s chic SS13-ready look

by on 10th September 2012 0 comments

Fashion Month may have only just begun, but we’re already seeing some recurring trends on the spring/summer 2013 catwalk at New York Fashion Week!  We’re delighted to see orange making quite a few appearances on the runway – Victoria Beckham and See by Chloe are just two of the shows which featured the bright shade – and it looks like Katherine Heigl is working the trend already. We love how she brightened up her chic, smart grey trousers with an orange blouse and also added some hot accessories such as a chain necklace, skinny belt and massive sunglasses. When in LA… If you want to channel Katherine’s effortless Los Angeles style, here’s what you’ll need: Fleck trousers, £48, Warehouse available at House of Fraser Chain link necklace, £19.99, available at Mango Orange blouse, £65,available at Zalando Blue belt, £105, Balenciaga available at Yoox Rita sunglasses, £247, Tom Ford available at Matches

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Why we can’t get enough of French label Sandro!

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

A French label always gets us excited: Gallic charm; insouciance in the way the clothes carry themselves, and above all, that just-arrived-from-Paree feeling we get every time we slip into something of francais heritage. Sandro is that label. A Parisian fashion house whose clothes radiate insouciance with a razor sharp edge. It’s Emanuelle Alt, after she’s spent a week living with Rihanna; sharp, sleek tailoring with contrasting, outstanding street detail that has us wanting to devour the entire collection as if it were fashion chips. Working with a palette of electric blue, grey, bottle green and Bordeaux for autumn/winter 2012, Sandro offers style and pocket-conscious shoppers the perfect, mid-market sartorial antidote to the pricey, high end Fall collections that are oh-so-desirable, yet financially destructive! Denim has been fashioned in delectable variations, ranging from shock-inducing block colours, to leopard print and boasting eyelets lace and zip details to add an interesting edge. The Sandro girl doesn’t compromise style for comfort, instead merging them together and wearing it in the form of an oversized chambray shirt, or a cosily chic lambswool, angora and cashmere mix sweater. Blouses, shirts and vests come emblazoned with circus prints, tiger heads speckled complementarily amongst polka dots and a russet coloured silkscreen top that has us drooling at its high end look, high street price! Outerwear and accessories are hot Fall favourites, too, as the Sandro girl embraces an uber-luxe fur-trimmed leather jacket, coats boasting military details and leather-trimmed mannish coats in melange tweed, whilst accessories take a functional turn in the form of zipped, wristlet clutch bags and roomy, embossed leather satchels in want-now hues. Shoes for Fall, you’ll be pleased to know, don’t fall into the blister-causing category. A moccasin suede studded slipper touches on the super-comfortable slipper trend, while Sandro’s classic sneaker, the Albatross’ […]

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Alice Temperley talks us through her latest collection for John Lewis- Somerset by Alice Temperley

by on 17th September 2023 0 comments

When the invitation to preview the Somerset by Alice Temperley collection came to my door last week (yes that is cider from Alice’s farm in Somerset – is that not a fantastic idea for an invite?!) I knew that getting up at 6am to head to John Lewis in Oxford Street before the store was open to the public would be worth it. And I wasn’t wrong! Not only did I, and a few other very lucky bloggers, get to see the collection in the flesh before anyone else, but I also got to hear about it from the designer herself. She talked us through the range, telling us how and why the collaboration came about and even which pieces were her favourites. Here are a few highlights from our chat with Alice: “The reason I decided to work with John Lewis is because they’re a heritage brand within the high street and they’re known for quality,” Alice told us. “So we decided to start working with them last year after the conversation took about two years, and we finally said yes because we figured out what we were doing with the mainline which is becoming more elegant. So it was the right time to say lets get something for the high street that wont compete with the other line.” “It’s nice to design clothes that people I know can afford because not all my friends can afford it. Even though it’s a luxury that people dip into every now and again it’s nice to have a fully functioning wardrobe that people can wear all day every day. And the price points are amazing. Love the embellished shawl… £249 which is amazing. It echoes the mainline but it doesn’t conflict with it.” “Unpretentious clothes that last, basically.” Alice was a […]

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Spotlight on: ABO London

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

We’re kicking off the week by introducing you to one of our favourite new labels: ABO London. The brand is the brainchild of Kazakhstan-born Aliya Boranbayeva and Aizhan Bodanova, and came together as they wanted to fuse the rich, cultural Central Asian heritage with the modern, diverse and dynamic one of London. ABO London has an exclusive range of limited-edition, luxury silk scarves which are ethically made with high quality and eco-friendly fabrics. Each and every scarf design offers something different, with the prints being based on Aliya’s original artwork. Perhaps the best thing we love about ABO London is the fact that the scarves are made right here in the UK. We think you know by now that 2012 is an incredible year to be proud of our country, so why not translate our patriotism into our fashion? Most of the scarves are of the bright, bold and very colourful variety, so they’re not for the colour-shy. However, the ‘dark shadows’ scarf, which comes in grey and black, is a gorgeous piece to add to a chic, night-time, gothic-inspired look. The triangle scarves have to be our faves, because they are double sided – great for the indecisive among us! Head to the website to check out the lookbook and find out more about this wonderful brand.

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Good Friday Fashion Finance Famine: The Easter bank holiday weekend sale edit!

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

It’s finally here! An extended weekend filled with Easter eggs and more chocolate than you can shake a choc log at! We totally envy those with a day off today (worry not, we’ll be joining you soon!), but however you choose to spend it, don’t forget to check out our Good Friday sale edit to ensure your bank holiday weekend wardrobe is filled with equally yummy fash bargains. Bunny hop around in a printed pencil skirt (we appreciate this may be a little difficult) or scoff chocolate wearing delectable pastel-coloured heels (oh, it’s a hard life!); whatever takes your fancy this weekend, make sure it’s a stylish one and don’t forget to have a chocolate egg or ten on us! Happy Easter from My Fashion Life HQ! 1. Mirrored Cherry Blossom Dress, £68 £45 £30, Warehouse 2. Textured Crescent Drop Pendant Necklace, £12 £6, Warehouse 3. Vanessa Bruno Fine Mohair Sweater, £200 £100, Matches 4. Carvela Kite Heels, £130 £69, Kurt Geiger 5. Lorna Wrap Front Trim Dress, £189 £124, Reiss 6. Kaleidoscope Floral Print Pencil Skirt, £45 £25 £20, Oasis 7. Halston Heritage Desert Crossbody Bag, £326 £162, STYLEBOP 8. Mezi Anna Deco Crystal Drop Earrings, £159 £72, ASOS 9. Dannijo Bianca Cuff, £340 £170, Oxygen Boutique

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How to Wear: D&G Boucle Chain Trim Jacket

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

We bet, across the nation today it’s all maxi dresses, summer prints and toe-revealing sandals ago go! Yes, the barometer has reached new heights and so has our summer wardrobe enthusiasm, with as much flesh as is climatically appropriate on show, and the money spent on keeping our wardrobe SS12 fresh put to good use! But, this is Britain and like Lauren Goodger’s tan levels, the weather can take a turn for the worst without warning. So, to banish those dreaded summer evening chills, we’ve decided to pick out a life saving wardrobe addition for this week’s How to Wear. High on our summer chill prevention list is the luxe knitted D&G Boucle Chain Trim Jacket. Serving as the perfect warm weather cover up, we love the delicious sugary pink colour and contrast trim with chain embellishment. When the temperature is on the up, the last thing fashionistas want to do is lug around a heavy ‘in case’ jacket to tackle weather blips. The D&G Boucle jacket is the perfect midway between practicality and style, and ticks all the major trends this season: ladylike, embellishment and fizzy pastel shades. Here are three easy ways to style it. D&G Boucle Chain Trim Jacket, £550,  Harrods shown throughout; MOTO Organic Blue Baxter Jean,£40, Topshop (wear slightly rolled up);  KG Kurt Keiger Dora Backless Courts, £140, Kurt Geiger; Stella McCartney Iconic Cotton T-shirt, £65, The OUTNET Jacket as above; Textured Lantern Skirt, £35, Topshop, Preen ALDO Rise Exclusive Giffee Printed Heeled Sandals, £135, ASOS Jacket as above; Acne Sweety Printed Dress, £300, My Theresa; KG Kurt Geiger Syble Mini Bag, £120, Kurt Geiger D&G Boucle Chain Trim Jacket, £550, available at Harrods

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Milan Fashion Week: Day 4

by on 27th February 2012 0 comments

As it was his last collection with Jil Sander, Raf Simons definitely made sure he went out with a bang; it may have been a subtle and quiet bang, but he definitely left a lasting impression. We adored the pastel pink coats and dresses that made their way down the runway, which is a huge contrast to what we have been seeing the past few Jil Sander seasons. Emporio Armani presented what Giorgio himself called the “Little Winter Follies” collection, which was sultry, sleek and undeniably striking. Velvet, fringe, floral, polka dot, chiffon, leather – it was all there, and all teamed with cute, flirty short shorts; not very wintry on paper, but paired with predominantly monochrome shades, tights and flat shoes, worked a treat! Bottega Veneta joined the likes of Gucci and Alberta Ferretti with the dark and moody theme, offering a minimalist but edgy autumn/winter 2012 collection. The evening gowns were a huge highlight for us; there was an abundance of flesh on show, and lots of feathers, peplums and fine embroidered detail to boot. Last but not least on our favourites list was Emilio Pucci, who offered sheer, slashed, sensual designs in wintry and seductive shades. Peter Dundas apparently sought inspiration from his Norwegian heritage, and also dabbled in the masculine meets feminine theme that many designers have been playing with this season.

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