One of the difficulties this time of year is deciding how warm to dress. Sure, the weather might look warm and sunny when you look out the window in the morning, but as soon as you step outside, it often becomes apparent (pretty damn quick) that it isn’t actually shorts and tees weather. This is where the lightweight cover-up comes into play. Thankfully, the fashion master minds at Acne have the perfect item. The Blacksweet denim jacket is made from light denim and is perfect for throwing over the top of a multitude of summer outfits. The relaxed fabric combined with smart structure makes it versatile and perfect for dressing up or down. Perfect for the city-slick look, it’ll look great styled with tailored shorts and wedges. Alternatively, pair with a maxi skirt and simple tee. At £360 it’s not exactly cheap as chips but it might just be your best investment this summer… Acne Blacksweet Denim Jacket, £360, available at my-wardrobe.com. BUY NOW!
Read MoreSearch Results for “maxi dress”
Forever 21 turns boho-chic (among other things) for autumn
Want to know what’s in store from Forever 21 next season? We took a look around its Soho showspace to catch a sneak peek at its brilliant boho-inspired collection for autumn/winter 2011. But the American fashion label wasn’t content with just one theme, it’s thrown in an ecclectic mix of high class collections and glam grunge pieces into the mix, too, giving customers a suitably varied choice for next season’s wardrobe. So with plenty of nordic maxi-dresses, sheer black lace skirts, pleather biker jackets, leopard print corsets, tie-dye sweaters, denim roll-up shirts, crochet ponchos, suede tassled waistcoats and peacock feathered earrings to choose from – not to mention a pair of need-them-now leopard print wedges – the fast fashion chain has something for every trend-setter out there. Flick through our gallery below to see what’s in store… [nggallery id=31]
Read MoreBeauty look of the week: Halle Berry
The ever-stunning Halle Berry attended the Silver Rose Gala and auction earlier this week at the Beverley Hills Hotel in California, and true to form, she made sure all eyes were on her. Despite her gorgeous pink dress and the fact that she finally went public about her new relationship with Olivier Martinez, the main thing that caught our eye was her strikingly simple barely-there make up. We love her dewy skin and subtly smoky eye, which feels fresh and suitably light for spring – and if you love her look as much as us, we’ve picked the bare essentials to get you looking like Ms. Berry. See our steps below to get a similar look… Get your skin looking flawless and dewy with Estee Lauder’s double wear foundation – it has a sheer to medium coverage and SPF making it perfect for spring. Apply only wear you need it for a natural look. Estee Lauder Double Wear Light Stay-in-Place Make Up, £25, available at House of Fraser. BUY NOW! A subtle, smouldering smudged eye is easily created with a kohl pencil. Available in a variety of colours, Clarins’ waterproof eyeliner won’t budge. Pencil along your lash lines – both on top of the lid and underneath your eye – and blend it with the tip for a soft, sexy look. Clarins Waterproof Eye Liner Pencil, £15, available at Debenhams. BUY NOW! Lashings of mascara will make the whites of your eyes pop and will maximise your smudged eyeliner. We love Lancome’s Hypnose Mascara – it seems to create eyelashes you didn’t know you had. Lancome Hypnose Mascara, £20.50, available at Debenhams. BUY NOW! Finish off with a sheer and sweet lipgloss for glistening lips like Halle. If you’re pale skinned, nude-pinks and creams are a good look for you. If you’re olive skinned, go […]
Read MoreCoachella Style Special: Diane Kruger
The coolest and most stylish celebrities flock to the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California, every year to watch the cream of the musical crop strut their stuff on stage. But what happens in the audience is just as thrilling as the on-stage antics, in particular what the famous and fabulous choose to wear to the star-studded event. And so, with the very best of festival chic to give you some serious summertime wardrobe inspiration, we bring you our Coachella style special… Kicking off our best dressed list is none other than the always-impeccable Diane Kruger. The German actress was spotted having a whale of a time at the festival, dancing around and constantly hugging boyfriend Joshua Jackson (is it just us or is he getting better with age?) but as usual, the girl did it all in style. Wearing a full nude maxi skirt and loose fitting black vest top, she looked hotter than the searing Californian temperatures. Diane knows that no one wants irritating jewellery or over-done accessories when they’re busy dancing and kept it to a minimum wearing a festival-favourite trilby and a skinny brown belt. Simple, stylish and oh so chic -top marks for Diane. What do you think of Ms. Kruger’s low-luxe look? [poll id=”86″]
Read MoreWho wore it best? Corinne Bailey Rae vs Alexis Bledel in Stella McCartney
Spring’s obsession with all things floral helped unearth our inner florist and firmly stamped these posy pretties onto wardrobe staples. Be it floor-skimming wispy maxis à la Alberta Feretti or lace-infused digital bloom prints courtesy of Erdem, botanical prints are blossoming everywhere – and here, Corinne Bailey Rae and Alexis Bledel battle it out in a beautiful Stella McCartney botanical print dress with two contrasting looks. Corinne perfected understated chic at the Elle Style Awards back in February, pairing the dress with kitten heel sling backs and minimal makeup. The Leeds-born songstress opted for an accessory-free look, which we think works by bringing the floral print out in full bloom. But Gilmore girl Alexis Bledel beat Brit Corrine to it; sporting the tank version of the dress at the US Weekly’s 25 Most Stylish New Yorkers event, held at Lavo, NYC, back in September. Alexis looked flawless, mixing surfer-chic waves with a dewy complexion, but we’re not so sure on the clutch/shoe combo – the lemon coloured Giuseppe Zanotti wedges appear a good size too big, and maybe a smaller clutch would keep all eyes on the dress. Who do you think looks blooming fash-tastic in this floral Stella number? Cast your votes below! [poll id=”84″]
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 MoreEmma Watson and Alberta Ferretti collaborate
After completing her third and final collection for People Tree, Harry Potter star Emma Watson is moving forward and taking her eco-fashion skills to new heights as her latest collaboration with Italian fashion designer Alberta Ferretti unfolds.
Read MoreLondon Fashion Week AW11: Mulberry
Who: Mulberry What: Quintessentially English countryside meets grown-up glamour with signature Mulberry quirk sprinkled amidst a friendly forest of woodland creatures. Thoughts: If you go down to the woods today you’re sure of a nice surprise. Much like it’s pre-fall collection, Mulberry’s offering for autumn/winter 2011 is a woodland-inspired wonderland, full of fantastical furry creatures and clothes to match. Opening with An English Country Garden and a reading from Road Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox, Mulberry transformed Claridges’ Ballroom once again into a magical wild wonderland, this time smothered in pretty moss foliage, birds on branches, furry animals and overhead tweeting. A rich colour palette of new-season neutrals and autumnal earthy shades – try fox brown, conker, dark heather, red onion and winter white – are accented with intense pops of colour – cabbage, hedgehog bronze, foxglove pink and lavender – for an eccentric walk on the wild side next autumn. Longer lengths and sumptuous textures see oversized coats layered with delicate silk dresses and chunky knit cardigans flung over full-lengths – the Mulberry girl may have gone a little glam next season, but she’s prim, proper and patriotic, too. Coats are cosy and practical – quilted macs, trench coats, boyfriend jackets, nostalgic duffles and oversized poacher jackets – whilst knits are super soft and super sized, seeing signature checked scarves in sumptuous angora casually wrapped around necks for a simple but striking statement. Dresses are designed for statement, with strong, structured shapes or soft ethereal floor-sweepers with delicously delicate details. Some come cool – a bronze lurex maxi or a phesant green Sixties mid-length – and some come classic – a romantic full pleated shirt dress, but all are effortlessly contemporary. Onto the bags, the Bayswater’s been given poacher-style straps and stud closures to form the Heritage Bayswater satchel. Fox […]
Read MoreLondon Fashion Week AW11: Jaeger
Who: Jaeger London What: British elegance in bright block colours, colonial references, relaxed tailoring and classic signatures with a contemporary edge. Thoughts: Among the dark collections we’ve seen so far, Jaeger offers a bright breath of air next season. Nude and blacks are still dominant in the luxury label’s autumn/winter 2011 collection, but they’re offset against bright pops of crayloa colours. A jewelled blue dress here and a fuschia shirt there is teamed with black for the ultimate colour contrast, while camel separates are injected with flashes of scarlett red for an especially contemporary take on classic designs. The winter coat – a Jaeger signature – plays a pivotal role for autumn, appearing in dramatic maxi lengths, sleeveless clean cuts, exaggerated capes and cropped shapes in rich textures. Detail is key here – oversized lapels, buckles and collars lined with fur or shearling. Dogstooth prints proudly reflect the label’s British heritage, as do Prince of Wales checks and sumptuous wools – an extravagance that leads into eveningwear with jewel silk dresses, colour-shock chiffon blouses and sleek jet blacks. Knitwear adds a rich texture to Jaeger’s autumn collection, appearing in mohair, cashmere and sculpted wool jerseys in neutral blushes and punchy earthy tones – shapes are oversized, falling just above the knee with ribbed cuffs or finish loosely at the hip. Bags remain classic but are finished with feather straps, textured panels, buckles and padlocks whilst shoes take on a simplistic yet contemporary approach – strapped sandals with wide leather cuffs have contrasting coloured heels, knee-high boots fall wide and textured and ankle boots come bright and patent. Our favourite part? Black socks with contrasting colour pop toes and heels – an especially fun touch to this directional collection.
Read MoreLondon Fashion Week AW11: Fyodor Golan
Who: Fyodor Golan What: Contemporary tribal meets Greek goddess Thoughts: Fyodor Podgorny and Golan Frydman – the designers behind the Fyoder Golan label – created a collection which drew inspiration from the Renaissance and Regency periods titled ‘Pagan Poetry’. It was teaming with bold African tribal influences and the charming splendour of the Greek goddess. Soft leather was attributed symbolic scarring like that of various tribal customs for beauty, status and decoration. Using goats skin, the designers were able to manipulate the leather to create a textured pattern that was both interesting and becoming. Feather bodices were paired with high-waisted trousers with additional leather flay at the side and front, adding volume to a conventional straight leg. Ruched nude sheer mesh instilled a sexy panache and many dresses combined stiff cut-out hard lines in the bodice with soft silk maxi flow from the hip. There was a vast amount of detail creating linear patterns but it was all in a rather confined palette of navy, nude and brown – that is, apart from the one and only electric blue number with sultry sky high slits. Opulence was conveyed in the fabric, luxury in the extensive workmanship and raw expression in the metaphoric symbolism. A wealth of elongated silhouettes worked to enhance the theme – the powerful, striking and well-respected woman.
Read MoreWonderbra’s guide to wearing which bra when on Valentine’s day
Struggling to find a bra to wear with your Valentine’s outfit? We’ve got a solution. Let’s face it, Valentine’s day is probably the only day of the year us ladies pay as much attention to our lingerie as we should, and to make it worse, we know the guys are watching, too. But knowing which bra design suits which dress can be a tricky business. To make sure your sartorial dilemas are well and truly solved, we asked our friends at Wonderbra to dish some expert advice on what style bra should be worn with what style staple – and they delivered a handy little guide. See below for Wonderbra’s top tips to putting your best bust first on February 14th… Strapless Going strapless? Look for a strapless bra with maximum non-slip support. “Make the most of your strapless dress by getting your hands on Wonderbra’s Ultimate Strapless – it really is the ultimate party accessory,” say Wonderbra’s experts. “The unique hand shaped structure means you get that famous Wonderbra cleavage, but without the fear of it sliding down, allowing you to keep dancing all night.” Black lace Ultimate Strapless bra, £36, available at Debenhams. BUY NOW! V-necks and small busts If your bust’s a little on the small side or you’ve got a killer cleavage-flashing dress, try a bra that gives you a natural, fuller cleavage. “Wonderbra’s Full Effect bra boosts you by up to two cup sizes but gives a natural look because of its’ unique 3D padding which boosts from every angle. The padding is made of a combination of gel, air and foam, making it incredibly light and comfortable to wear.” Wonderbra Full Effect bra, £29, available at Debenhams. BUY NOW! Big busts If you’re well endowed, don’t try and squeeze into something skimpy. Instead, opt […]
Read More5 ways to wear spring now
The new collections are trickling in and we’ve recapped the hottest spring trends, but how do we begin to channel SS11 style when it’s so ruddy cold outside? Don’t worry, we’ve got it covered. From cool colour statements to simple shape updates, we’ve got five foolproof ways to wear spring now that will have you looking fashionably fresh until the new season lands (without benumbing your bum). Get ready to shake up your style… 1. Anything orange Alice + Olivia Leila silk-blend tank dress, £92.50, available at theOutnet.com here; Halston crepe drawstring-waist jumpsuit, £336, available at theOutnet.com here; Monica Vinader Medina gold-plated chalcedony ring, £73.95, available at theOutnet.com here. Call it tangerine, pumpkin or peach – orange is making a zesty splash this spring. The good news? The shade looks great on everyone and everything. Channel the trend with a statement one piece or sumptuous silk shirt – or, if you want to take a more subtle approach, work it into your wardrobe via simple but striking accessories. 2. Anything white White embroidered dress, £28, available at Topshop here; Morgan white concealed placket shirt, £110, available at Reiss here; Clemens En August white kimono jacket, £187.50, available at theOutnet.com here. The key to wearing white in winter? Layering. A crisp white blazer over a sleek shirt or simple shift won’t only keep you warm, it’ll make new-season minimalism your middle name – but if clean cuts aren’t for you, luckily the shops are awash with white in just about every form. 3. Try trousers Jaeger wide leg trousers, £175 £68, available at Reiss here; Stacey straight leg trousers, £95, available at Reiss here; blue tulip print wide leg trousers, £45, available at Topshop here. Whether you love high-waisted wide-leg pairs or go soft for sleek cigarette styles, pants have come […]
Read MoreSS11 trend recap: lady-like lengths and Seventies siren
If yesterday’s trend recap was about crisp, clean zestiness, consider this a lesson in time travel. As fashion gears up for a retro revival next season, it’s time to ditch the leg-flashing hems and put a bounce in your step, because lady-like lengths and Seventies silhouettes are back, and they’re our focus for today’s spring style report. Lady-like lengths It might be the season to shread the layers and flash some skin, but this spring’s following autumn’s lead and is considerably more conservative. With even the coolest of kids eschewing thigh-skimming hems for mid-length calf-swinging shapes, full skirts and ankle-grazers are the order of the season. Take your cue from Marc by Marc Jacobs for a lady-like look, go girly with pleats at Chloe, or opt for a younger, more directional style a la Proenza Schouler. Seventies siren Put on your favourite flares, because after ruling the spring runways, the Seventies are back. With floor-sweeping jumpsuits, maxidresses, peasant blouses, wide-leg trousers, ditsy prints and vibrant colours, next season’s style is nostalgic for the flower power decade. From Marc Jacobs‘ retro hues to House of Holland‘s relaxed glam and Yves Saint Laurent‘s cropped cullottes, get set to revamp your rodeo. [Images: Style.com]
Read MoreGet the beauty look: Rachael Taylor
Australian actress and model Rachael Taylor has always been one to wow onlookers with her statement yet elegantly refined beauty looks, and whilst attending the Summer Coda premiere in Melbourne late last year, the down under stunner looked suitably glamorous in her red carpet-worthy makeup. With her slightly-smoky golden eyes, defined brows and glowing rose cheeks, her natural glamour proved the perfect pared-down partner to her statement sequinned dress. But fear not, this laid-back luxe look is easy to recreate at home – after all, looking good isn’t just for the rich and famous. Lancome Teint Miracle Foundation, £26, House of Fraser A good base is key to achieving Rachael’s glowing skin, and Lancome’s Teint Miracle foundation at House of Fraser is perfect for this look. Its lightweight miracle formula will guarantee to naturally illuminate your face whilst allowing your skin to breathe – simply apply a small amount to the centre of your face and blend outwards for a natural, even coverage. Topshop Eyes eye shadow in Dirty Martini, £6.50, Topshop For dazzling eyes all you need is this handbag-sized pot of Dirty Martini burnt gold eye shadow from Topshop – the gorgeous metallic finish will add an instant dash of eye-popping colour to your little peepers. Smooth the shadow onto your lids, building colour in the contours of your eyes for dramatic effect. Don’t forget to wing it out at the corners to maximise those cat eyes like Rachael. Clarins eyebrow pencil, £14.81, Boots For the perfect statement brow, Clarins offers the ultimate face-shaping beauty trick with this darkly-toned eyebrow pencil – this little beauty will guarantee to sort out your sunken brows while brushing them into shape with the handy comb. Natio Mineral lip and cheek tint, £11.24, Debenhams For radiant glowing cheeks, head over to Debenhams […]
Read MoreTop 10 sale picks
It’s January, and there are two things on our mind: starting the post-Christmas diet (yeah right) and shopping the sales – and, let’s face it, seeing as the latter is far more enjoyable, we’re focusing our first-day-back energy on bargain buying. Naturally, we’ve spent the holidays scouring the sales to find the hottest style staples that will transform your new year wardrobe into a luxe lust-have land. Take a look below at our top 10 picks that will see you into the new year in style – and help you save while you’re at it. 1. Willow Madame Gres pleated silk-tuelle dress, £1080 £648, Net-a-Porter 2. Theory Orica broiderie Anglaise top, £315 £220.50, Net-a-Porter 3. Elizabeth and James silk charmeuse blouse, £215 £150.50, Net-a-Porter 4. O&O sheer floral maxidress, £48 £21.99, Urban Outfitters 5. Kurt Geiger Auckland shoe boot, £260 £85, Kurt Geiger 6. DKNY chain crossbody bag, £220 £154, Net-a-Porter 7. Rupert Sanderson patent red Mary Jane pumps, £445 £270, Browns 8. Suede tapered trousers, £130 £40, Topshop 9. LP.BG A-line wrap skirt, £230 £115, Matches 10. Bex Rox gold sandstone ring, £148 £89, Matches
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 MoreGet the look: Halle Berry in Roberto Cavalli
Halle Berry turned up at the Swarovski Elements 22 Ways to Say Black charity auction in New York last week looking super-sexy and chic. The Roberto Cavalli dress takes the best from a classic LBD and mixes it up with a contemporary cut, proving perfect for Halle’s hourglass figure. We love how she’s kept her accessories and make-up simple yet sophisticated, adding sparkle without drawing attention away from the detail on the dress – and her chain-strapped bag is a great choice for the metallic tones in her outfit. If you love Halle’s look as much as us, take a look below at how to recreate it for yourselves… Tribal Ladder Neck Bodycon dress, £55, ASOS We love this ASOS Tribal Bodycon dress which hugs the body in all the right places, as the Roberto Cavalli dress does. The thread and ladder detailing around the neckline also bears similarities to the slit patterns on the Cavalli piece, and all for a tiny fraction of the celeb price tag. Stella McCartney Falabella chain-trimmed bag, £785, Net-a-Porter Although slightly bigger than Halle’s evening choice, this bag uses the same chain trim and handle, and will also allow you to mix and match with more than one outfit – its extra space means you won’t need to substitute any glamour for a daytrip and can be carried onto an evening on the town. Maximum effect but minimum effort. Karen Millen Studded Sandals, £165, Selfridges Every girl needs the perfect pair of strappy sandals in her wardrobe, and these Karen Millen shoes are the ideal match for our chosen outfit this week. The added studs on the sandal effortlessly ooze a modern edge but also remain sophisticated and sexy – a great substitute for Halle’s look. Just add smoky eyes and diamonds…
Read MoreZandra Rhodes SS11 preview
Crimson red, tangerine orange, sunflower yellow, lime green, sapphire blue and fuchsia pink are but some of the colours used for Zandra Rhodes’ spring/summer 2011 collection, while chiffons, organzas and silks form the main fabrics, appearing on shirts, trousers, dresses and kaftans. With enough choice for the everyday fashionista and Zandra fan, and an exotic palette somewhat resembling a rainbow, Rhodes stamps her unique fun but beautiful signature on her new line for SS11. Shirts, ponchos and kaftan dresses in a number of differing tribal prints and patterns – zig-zags, swirls and flowers – make up the main part of the collection and are decorated with sequins, gems and beads, with pleats and ruffles ironed to perfection. The main inspiration for the collection is that of ’zip and fit’, which is associated with the dress of arabic women. You simply slip into the garment, zip it up and, despite the substitution of a shorter hem line for a longer maxi length, feel instantly elegant in beautifully-fitting fabrics. Zandra says the collection follows her traditional ethnic approach of zig-zag patterns and is based heavily on prints. “I want my clothes to be beautiful, chic and tailored, but you could always accessorize and wear them as crazy or as mad as you like, a bit like Lady Gaga. They are classics you can wear again and again,” she says. The black and gold printed smock dresses which come in two variations also add some evening glamour and versatility into the collection. The first has long sequinned sleeves and panels which intertwine with the patterned fabric on the body, while the second has shorter sleeves and uses the gold print as its focal point – both proving easily translatable for autumn, too, with black opaques and pumps. Our favourite piece is the structured, almost […]
Read MoreKate Moss launches Limited Edition collection
Looks as though that shaman is already working wonders for Kate Moss – she’s just launched her Limited Edition summer collection at Topshop and, as if you need telling, it’s set to go down a storm with the summer-loving fashion crowd.
Read MoreLondon’s menswear designers do womenswear
So when we told you about next season’s NEWGEN menswear winners, we told you how menswear is on the rise. Well, so successful are some of the designers that, in a somewhat ironic twist, they’re now launching a womenswear collection.
Read MoreSneak peek: Next’s new TV advert
If you’re feeling inspired by the sun, you’re not the alone – Next is too, and to prove it, its launching a brand new TV advert tomorrow featuring the very best of its spring/summer collection. Cue California, cars, cute kids and even cuter models.
Read MoreLondon Fashion Week: the best bits
You may have noticed we’ve taken a back seat in this season’s London Fashion Week , but that doesn’t mean we haven’t been casting our eagle eye over the collections. Now that it’s well and truly over, let’s round up what we’ve seen , and loved , in London this season. Oh, the wonders of live streaming.
Read MoreCelebrating McQueen
A dark cloud was cast over the fashion world last Thursday, when news was brought of British designer, Lee Alexander McQueen’s death. New York Fashion Week began with a sombre tone as news rapidly spread, regarding the demise of the prolific fashion designer whose lower-priced line , McQ , was scheduled to be presented that very afternoon. Instead, friends, family and fans paid tribute to one of the most influential fashion figures of recent years, looking back at the many highlights of his successful career. Crowds descended upon Alexander McQueen stores to pay their respects with flowers, notes and candles while the London store lowered its McQueen flag to fly at half mast above the window display, which now shows only black drapes. Aged just 40 at the time of his death, McQueen was seen as one of the most exciting designers in the business, constantly shocking and impressing onlookers at his conceptual shows, showcasing inspired designs, tailored to perfection. Perhaps more significant to current and future designers however, is the fact that the ‘enfant terrible’ of British fashion grew with the trends , and not merely in terms of fashion. McQueen’s last , and perhaps best , show, which displayed his spring 2010 collection, streamed live from Paris, enabling anyone with internet access to watch from the comfort of their own home. McQueen was perfectly in tune to the possibilities of fashion and constantly pushed boundaries, making his mark in fashion history whilst setting the benchmark for Fashion Weeks to come. The British Fashion Council are yet to decide how to mark McQueen’s passing but Lucy Yeomans, chairman of the BFC press committee told the Guardian: ‘it is only right that London Fashion Week marks his passing in some way, pointing out that it was important ‘to do something […]
Read MoreNathan Jenden leaves DVF
It’s been the fashion friendship few could ever imagine, but after their nine year luxury love affair, the relationship between Diane Von Furstenburg ans Nathan Jenden is set to end.
Read MoreThe Men of Glastonbury 2009
Since Kate Moss donned her little hot-pants outfit to the UK’s favourite music event – Glastonbury – a few years ago, festival goers have treated the occasion like a bizarre, mud-filled catwalk – parading their finest (and often loudest) wardrobes to the masses. The best (or maybe worst) thing about this? There are no rules. But let’s not limit this to the girls. And having said that, to the festival crowd themselves. Performers after all, are under the scrutiny of the fields of fashionistas, fans and cameras, and the men are no exception. Here’s a few that we’ve picked out: Pete Doherty – Dressed in his faithful trilby hat, Pete chose a military/old band style top in a black and gold jersey material for his performance on The Other Stage. Thumbs up to Pete for the casual take on this formal theme. Although we’re not so sure about the navy blue polo shirt underneath, luckily Pete can pull off just about anything without it looking out of the ordinary.
Read MoreReach Your Summer Fashion Potential
Every year women throughout the UK dread the arrival of summertime. Whether you fear a hot and humid summer at home, or two weeks in a more extreme and foreign climate, we all get anxious over what to wear to feel comfortable and gorgeous at the same time. However, we have five top tips you can follow to leave you feeling totally at ease and maximising your wardrobe potential. Top Tip 1: Stop covering yourself up! Although not advocating excessive sun exposure, too many women will wear strategically placed items, (such as a black bolero or cheerless cardigan) in order to hide parts of their body they wish could be nipped and tucked – leaving you hot and bothered. Why not draw attention away from what you consider to be your problem zones by opting for beautiful floaty dresses, skirts and kaftans which will not cling to your body and will move with ease without sacrificing your femininity. Wearing the minimum number of items of clothing will ensure you keep your cool and give you the opportunity to feel summery and cheerful.
Read MoreSummer 09 Trend: Florals
With the onset of summer it’s no surprise that seasonal florals rear their head once again. However, this season you can forget looking sickeningly saccharine as we see a new take on the look. Spring has sprung with a new posy of floral prints in eye-popping colours that bloom bigger, brighter and bolder. From traditional prints to more abstract designs, vibrant and brash florals feature in the collections of Alexander McQueen, Luella, and See by Chloe. With even Kate Moss adding more fashion clout to her current Topshop collection by teaming with Liberty’s print designers , they of the iconic florals , we can be sure to see the floral trend in full bloom this summer.
Read MoreHow not to wear YSL caged heels!
One of the most beautiful items of Spring/Summer 09 was ruined for fashion lovers by the sight of them on Beyonce’s feet. Beyonce has always been one for eccentric fashion tastes and has on a number of occasions got it very very wrong. But over recent years she has started to get it very right. She looked good in her refined and stylish. So I was horrified to see Beyonce attempting to wear those beautiful £1,000 YSL shoes without an inch of style. Some of you may think I’m being harsh, and perhaps I am but this is not a good outfit for so many reasons. The trilby paired with giant hoops isn’t a great look, then you’ve got the see-though vest paired with some not very flattering ripped crops. The belt is probably the most offending item as it looks like it’s meant to match the shoes when it just doesn’t. The final issue is that although her legs are superstar gorgeous, pairing high leg shoes with crops always looks wrong. I would have loved to have seen her pair them with a sundress or maxi skirt, they do need to be prettied up just because they are such a dominant style. She’s such a gorgeous girl but I really don’t feel that this outfit does her or those amazing YSLs justice. How do you rate Beyonce’s style? Are you loving or loathing her throw it on look?
Read MoreMary-Kate unveils new look at Metropolitan Gala
Mary-Kate Olsen stepped out at the Metropolitan Opera’s 125th Anniversary Gala with a shiny new look, and we at MFL love it. Olsen’s tousled locks were set in loose curls and bleached blonde for a neat, Madonna-esque style while her pale skin set against siren-red lips, injected a touch of sultry vamp. The gorgeous maxi-dress echoes Olsen’s previous grungy look, but teamed with minimal accessories, matching scarlet nail polish and a beautiful box clutch, her polished look seems miles from the girl we are used to seeing. Should we expect to see a similar transition from Ashley who was absent from the event?
Read MoreLondon Fashion Week: Louise Amstrup AW09
Danish born Louise Amstrup, showcased her third London Fashion Week show at Vauxhall Fashion Scout on Sunday, and having recently been selected to open the season’s Copenhagen Fashion Week with her AW09 collection, expectations were high. A series of strong silhouettes, including sharp shoulders and jutting hips created powerful shapes down the runway, emulating the hard-edged tailoring seen at Marc Jacobs and (dare I say it?) Victoria Beckham. Splashes of lemon yellow and burnt orange were compartmentalised against dark hues in black leather and heavy wool, creating an 80’s – yes you heard right, 80’s again – flash of leotards, leggings and oversized jackets which were softened by sheer panels and luscious, ragged frills.
Read MoreBank of England: Enforcers of fashion
You’d better watch out Trinny and Susannah! There’s a new fashion police in town, they’re a force to be reckoned with and they go by the name of… The Bank of England. Yes, it would seem that the Bank of England has felt the need to offer it’s female employees styling tips. The Bank of England recently held a seminar in which they advised female workers on what clothes and make up to wear. Titled ‘Dress for Success’, the seminar intended to highlight how to look professional. However, judging by a memo leaked from the meeting, the comments made were something you would expect a bitchy fashionista to say, not an upstanding corporation. Titled the ‘Dress for Success’ seminar, the idea was that the session would explain how to look professional. However, a memo was unfortunately leaked from the meeting and comments made are something you would expect a bitchy fashionista to say, not an upstanding corporation: For example, when talking about accessories the female employees were warned that white high heels would make them look “professional, but not one you want to be associated with. Other non-desirable accessories included overfilled handbags, rings, double pierced ears and ankle chains. I mean when was the last time you saw an ankle chain?! Other comments included: “Look professional, not fashionable; be careful with perfume; always wear a heel of some sort, a maximum of two inches and always wear some sort of make up, even if it’s just lipstick. As you can imagine, uproar has followed, and The Bank of England has been labelled as sexist and workers have been advised that they could seek legal action. The Telegraph further reported that a spokesman for the Bank of England said: “This is not a bank dress code or anything to do with […]
Read MoreMatthew Williamson: Both model and designer for H&M
The excitement is building, oh yes it will soon be time. Matthew Williamson’s collection for H&M is on it’s way. And the first titbits of information have just been released. Matthew Williamson will be modelling the menswear line that he has created for the high street brand, whilst the designers’ favourite model Solve Sundsbo in gorgeous Mexico, so I think we can expect Williamson’s beautiful
Read MoreAccessories: Hair Wars
I don’t know about most of you, but my hair is completely unmanageable. I don’t mean that I can’t get it to hold a curl or it is too limp or anything like that- rather, my hair has a mind and will of its own. If you think this sounds ridiculous, well, you haven’t seen my hair. It’s insanely thick (like, every single hairdresser I have ever gone to tells me that my hair is the thickest they have ever seen, AND I break hair elastics at least once a week).
Read MoreBeauty: Hair Wars
I don’t know about most of you, but my hair is completely unmanageable. I don’t mean that I can’t get it to hold a curl or it is too limp or anything like that- rather, my hair has a mind and will of its own. If you think this sounds ridiculous, well, you haven’t seen my hair. It’s insanely thick (like, every single hairdresser I have ever gone to tells me that my hair is the thickest they have ever seen, AND I break hair elastics at least once a week).
Read MoreInterviews: eBay Style Director, Constance White
Who better to run to for fashion advice than Constance White? With over 15 years in the business White is unarguably an expert in her field. Currently working as Style Director for
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