Thursday 15 September 2011

S/S 2011- Shoe focus

As the weather slowly warms up and the number of bare legs increase I thought this would be the perfect time to introduce a S/S2011 shoe trend.

There are quite a few quirky shoe trends that I tried hard to find high street replicas for with no avail. Thats not to say they arent great concepts but sometimes it is really difficult to take something couture and adapt it into modern day life. One trend which I think in all honesty is a frequent fashion friend is the Jesus sandal.


As much as it might not be PC to use this term I think you will agree upon reviewing the pictures I have provided that you have a clear idea of the design of the trend.

In my first ever post I stated that designers were reflecting the changing economic situation in their collections, providing a light at the end of the tunnel per say. However I also believe it would be daft to think that such a major world event has not had a significant impact on our daily lives and as such there will always be small references to the need to be thrifty whether it be in fashion, food or entertainment in general.

I believe the Jesus sandal is a reference to getting back to basics, understanding our roots as human beings and reflecting on how far we have come such we were created. I cannot conclude that this was the view of each designer however I would like to think that underneath the hype of fashion there is humility and contemplation of its impact on society.

The key designer to lead this trend is Lanvin, a genius at heart, Alber Elbaz claims that he is not a cool designer- I beg to differ. His collection was sleek, modern and tough. It is this strength that was particularly apparent in the sandals he presented and the vigor that I refer to when I talk about the determination of the human spirit.

Other labels on board with the trend (as pictured) include Donna Karan and Prozena Schouler.

There are an infinite amount of options available for one to select this season and so I present to you a selection of my own personal favourites. Also I am so pleased to note that ASOS now has an Australian based store so if you order and it doesn't fit you don't have to pay so much to return the goods- hooray!

Leather stud flat sandal- $31.95- http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-FRISK-Leather-Stud-Flat-Sandals/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1493146&cid=4172&Rf900=1548&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Stone- I absolutely love this shoe, its simple but its got a dangerous look about it, giving off a total don't mess with me vibe

Bolly siren sandal- $119.95 http://www.wantedshoes.com.au/SIREN/Thongs/Flat-Sandals-Shoes/BOLLY.aspx?p54383- this shoe is a total replica of the Lanvin version and it's definitely a shoe that you could wear with a smart pant in the evening or at work- complete investment


Alice black sandal- $89.95- http://www.wantedshoes.com.au/URGE/Thongs/Flat-Sandals-Shoes/ALICE.aspx?p50450- there is definitely a sophistication to this shoe that would last you beyond this upcoming season

DVF chocolate suede sandals-$339-http://www.stylebop.com/au/product_details.php?id=226411- I hope that I will be lucky enough to one day own a DVF wrap dress but in the meantime maybe I should settle for these adorable sandals

Koosh natural sandal- $89.95- http://www.wantedshoes.com.au/ORBIT/Thongs/Flat-Sandals-Shoes/KOOSH.aspx?p54888- I love the colour of this shoe, it would work with many outfits in all of your wardrobes

Are there any trends you have all seen that you think I have not covered yet? Please let me know.

Happy Shopping

X

Saturday 10 September 2011

I've gone spotty


I would define an outfit composed of polka dots as traditional with a twist of playfulness.

As with a lot of trends this one was lightly touched on in A/W 2011 and now heavily expanded on in S/S 2011.

Moschino definitely celebrated the fun of polka dots, actually from start to finish their s/s 2011 collection was eccentric and charming. Set against a spotted back drop every outfit was an explosion of patterns and styles, with a primary focus on spots and stripes. At times the models teased the crowd with a western theme which contradicted some of the more controlled pant suits and folk outfits.

But Maxmara used the pattern in a completely contrasting way by applying a more minimalistic and classic interpretation which fitted in with the style of their s/s2011 collection. Outfits in this collection were designed to compliment the female form,
to lengthen and accentuate ones limbs.

Giles Deacon, Givenchy and Valentino all toyed with the trend with very different effects.

Now onto the fun stuff, little ways for you to adopt this trend into your wardrobe:


Wide Collar fitted waist dress- $23.96-http://www.asos.com/Asos/Asos-Collar-Spot-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1461696&SearchQuery=polka%20dots&Rf-700=1000&Rf900=1465,1557,2120,1612,1573&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Nudespot- this dress is beyond cute and would suit anyone who is currently rocking a retro'ish style


Frilled hem tea dress- $76,68- http://www.asos.com/Lipsy/Lipsy-Multi-Polka-Dot-Frill-Hem-Tea-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1659165&SearchQuery=polka%20dots&Rf-700=1000&Rf900=1465,1557,2120,1612,1573&Rf-300=1944&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Brown this is a perfect summer dress to go from the beach to lunch to a casual dinner


Whistles Spot and Stripe blouse- $151.76- http://www.asos.com/Whistles/Whistles-Cutie-Spot-Stripe-Blouse/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1572915&SearchQuery=polka%20dots&Rf-700=1000&Rf900=1465,1557,2120,1612,1573&Rf-300=1944,2080,1880&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Pink this shirt is perfect for the work wardrobe, definitely an investment piece that would last beyond one season


Pussy Bow Blouse- $111.83 http://www.asos.com/Fullcircle/Full-Circle-Polka-Dot-Pussy-Bow-Shirt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1786355&SearchQuery=polka%20dots&Rf-700=1000&Rf900=1465,1557,2120,1612,1573&Rf-300=1944,2080,1880&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Nude- I am beyond in love with this top, its effortlessly pretty plus pussy bows will be huge in A/W 2012 so my advice is to purchase now!


and for those who just want a small dot why not invest in these beauties, bow ballet flat- $39.95-

http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-LOCO-Spot-Bow-Ballet-Shoes/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1467665&SearchQuery=bow%20ballet%20flat%20shoes&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Grey- the bows on the shoes remind me of minnie mouse, I think these shoes would be a very entertaining purchase


As Cadbury would say, are you a fan of spots or stripes?


Happy Shopping


X

Tuesday 30 August 2011

Accessory focus 1#


Hello lovely people,

So I thought I would mix things up a little bit this week and provide you with a delightful s/s11 accessories trend.


I would say I am a little infatuated with sunglasses. I love the way they can transform a look, the way one feels instantly glamorous and important once you have them on your face. They also have the added advantage of being a necessity for one's health and they are great for covering up a hangover/crying session/tired eyes.


Cat Eye sunglasses originated in the 50's and 60's and they were designed to provide the wearer with a seductive reproduction of the classic almond eye shape.

Made famous by the iconic Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's, women wearing these sunglasses throughout these eras were considered fashion forward and elegant.


This trend began to crawl throughout the A/W 2010 shows with Prada being the dominant player and now it is running fiercely in S/S2011.


Designers who have adopted this trend include Jeremy Scott, Dior, Twenty8twelve, Paul Smith, Giles Deacon, Thakoon whilst the list of celebrities who have made their fashion mark is impressive- Olivia Palermo, JLo, Nicole Richie, Jessica Alba and Dita Von Teese.


I know glasses are a very personal purchase however research indicates to me that if you have a square/diamond face than the rounder style of glasses will suit best. If you have a more round/fuller face it is better to stick with glasses that have more sharp edges or those with a slight curve- however it’s all down to your own preference.


In my opinion every lady should have two pairs of sunglasses- one that you throw in your bag and don’t care if they get scuffed and the other which is an investment purchase. I think designer sunglasses are for some the closest we can afford to buying a piece of luxury whilst being able to justify the cost as let's face it it’s an actual health need.


So first up here are my recommendations for designer purchases:


Large round eye- $126- http://www.shopbop.com/large-cateye-sunglasses-ray-ban/vp/v=1/845524441900932.htm?fm=search-shopbysize- Rayban consistently deliver fantastic styles that are always guaranteed stylish investments


Tom Ford Angular eye- $276- http://www.visiondirect.com.au/designer-sunglasses/Tom-Ford/Tom-Ford-FT0173-Nikita-01B-75760.html- I have absolute respect for Mr Ford and his fascinating fashion vision


Acetate round eye- $442-http://www.therow.com/shop/acetate-cateye-1.html?color=Black- the olsen twins have come a long way since Full House and I admire them as designers. They have worked hard to get to where they are and definitely have a classic take on the world of fashion


Lafayette angular- $151- http://www.shopbop.com/lafayette-sunglasses-elizabeth-james/vp/v=1/845524441901445.htm?fm=search-shopbysize- a less expensive Olsen offering, on the right face these could look bewitching


Chunky round eye- $293- http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/dior-rounded-cats-eye-sunglasses/3149416?cm_cat=datafeed&cm_ite=dior_rounded_cat's_eye_sunglasses:338367&cm_pla=eyewear:women:sunglasses&cm_ven=Linkshare&siteId=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-j78DstAzoFVphdkQ_PfWOg- ive really had to hold myself back from boring you with my love of Dior but I can’t help it if they are a leader of this trend- these glasses just gorgeous and timeless


However if you are feeling tentative about adopting this trend then a less costly piece might be a better option:


Mix Frame round eyes- $21.30-http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Mix-Frame-Cats-Eye-Sunglasses/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1489698&SearchQuery=cat%20eye%20sunglasses&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=White#ctl00_ContentMainPage_mainImage3- I love the super cute mix of white with leopard print on these


Half frame retro black- $13- http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Half-Frame-Cat-Eye-Sunglasses/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1432543&SearchQuery=cat%20eye%20sunglasses&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Black- these are a more daring version of the style, however there are many fashionistas out there that could pull it off- plus they are super cheap!


Black extreme cat eyes-$34- http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=2445916&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208555&parent_categoryId=204484&pageSize=20&refinements=category~[276989|208555]&noOfRefinements=1- these are a more rounded version of the style, I could definitely see Nicole Richie wearing a pair!


Plum Winged Studded glasses- $27- http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=2339115&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208555&parent_categoryId=204484&pageSize=20&refinements=category~[276989|208555]&noOfRefinements=1- these are not for the faint hearted, but they are fun none the less


Betsey Jonson- $55- http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?preference=NorthAmerica&selectedProductSize=&itemdescription=true&navCount=30&popId=WOMENS&pushId=W_NEWARRIVALS&sortProperties=%20subCategoryPosition,&sortby=&prepushId=&startValue=81&id=22626535&parentid=W_NEWARRIVALS&clickid=0004abdae06c58500a8ae60d3dee1376&color=&cm_mmc=Performics-_-Affiliates-_-ShopStyle.com-_-Primary&itemCount=80&selectedProductColor=&navAction=jump&availableOptions=availableOptions – I think this is a very clever line between classic and quirky, I love that it comes in multiple colours


Will you be game enough to give this trend a go?


Happy Shopping

X

Sunday 28 August 2011

At the strike of midnight


There is something very seductive and mysterious about the colour dark blue. Clothing in this colour doesn't have the same sexy appeal as black however it's also not as flirty as a cornflour blue either. What is amazing about royal blue is that it draws you in and tempts you with its dark secrets.

Whilst the shops in Australia are exploding with a multitude of rainbow colours I am going to take a moment, as the very talented Giorgio Armani did, and pay my respects to the bewitching colour of dark blue.

Giorgio Armani's S/S2011 collection was inspired by the night sky over the Sahara. The collection harked back to a vintage era for the label as it featured a strong stream of striking dark blue and black pieces which occasionally included sparkles of sequins that transformed the clothing into beautiful constellations as they paraded down the runway.

Other designers to flirt with this trend include Mulberry, Tommy Hilfiger and Salvatore Ferragamo (the new womenswear designer Massimiliano Giornetti showed an amazing collection of minimalistic bohemianism, a total departure of classic styles presented in previous collections by then designer Cristina Ortiz).

Turning to my favourite online website ASOS did not produce the same fantastic results as browsing through the current Topshop collection.

For a lovely blouse you can go no further than these three picks:



Pocket Jersey T-Shirt- £18- http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=2610183&langId=-1&categoryId=&searchTerm=dark%20blue&pageSize=20- a classic basic that could be matched with numerous outfits and trends

However if you would like to indulge in a skirt/pant option, these three tick my box:


Jersey Tapered trouser- £26- http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=2625533&langId=-1&categoryId=&searchTerm=dark%20blue&pageSize=20- whilst this style is not flattering for every woman out there on the right body this would stop traffic

Lace pencil skirt- £40- http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=2643276&langId=-1&categoryId=&searchTerm=dark%20blue&pageSize=20- lace is a huge feature in many S/S 2011 collections and this beauty is feminine and perfect for the office through to after work drinks

If a dress is more your preference then you could try Paul by Paul Smith's Frill Bustier dress- $106.38- http://www.asos.com/Paul-By-Paul-Smith/Paul-By-Paul-Smith-Fitted-Frill-Bustier-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1372178&SearchQuery=dark%20blue&Rf-700=1000&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=-1&sort=-1&clr=Darkblue or maybe a more classic 1/2 Sleeve dress at a steal price of £20- http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=2610281&langId=-1&categoryId=&searchTerm=dark%20blue&pageSize=20

Lastly if you would prefer an accessory options than these velvet pumps would perfectly compliment most of the S/S trends featured so far, £18- http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=2630261&langId=-1&categoryId=&searchTerm=dark%20blue&pageSize=20

Sunday 21 August 2011

Step back in time


I know the majority of us weren't actually born in the 70's but I have no doubt that we are all well aware of the music, glamour and the idols that shone in this era.

Many designers tapped into these historical moment of sexuality and freedom, sometimes in the most eccentric way possible.

Marc Jacobs really dominated this trend flirting with his audience through a series of fun and colourful pieces. Models strutted down the catwalk in halter neck dresses, jumpsuits and voluminous pieces finished with oversize flowers or wide brimmed hats. Materials such as silk, satin and chiffon ensured that the collection oozed sex appeal.

Pucci (another new found favourite designer) took a more bohemian approach to the trend by providing a collection of thigh high dresses matched with dominatrix tie up boots or bell bottom trousers worn with draw string chiffon tops. The highlight was the white suit, an obvious homage to the iconic Bianca Jagger.

Elie Saab took a more grown up approach to his designs drawing on the glamour of outfits worn to Studio 54; he used jersey, chiffon and sequins to convey this style loved by all.

Whilst this trend is slow to filter into the high street one can still use some clever hunting skills to find the right outfits to experience the delight of the disco era.


However if the hippy vibe is more your thing than you cant go past this crochet 3/4 sleeve dress- $99.99- http://www.forevernew.com.au/Collections/Sunset-Boulevard.aspx?cl274

For those of you that like a little volume than this chiffon kaftan dress would be perfect in either colour- $37.68- http://www.asos.com/Asos/Asos-Chiffon-Kaftan-Dress-With-Pleat-Sleeve/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1508624&SearchQuery=kaftan&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=-1&sort=-1&clr=Cobaltblue


Which part of the trend do you love the most?

Happy shopping

X








Wednesday 3 August 2011

It's a floral fiesta

Flowers, nothing a girl loves more to receive and no other object that reminds me more of my childhood. Whether I was playing in them or wearing super girly dresses with flower features, as an adult now I cannot think of flowers without smiling.

Lucky for me (and maybe a few of you) floral patterns are making a huge comeback and it's appeal is not limited to just the 10 year olds on the playground.

Erdem absolutely consumed this pattern within their S/S11 collection as did Christian Dior and Alberta Ferretti.

Christian Dior's collection was fun, camp and fun again. The clothes can best be described as tropical with the majority of the pieces incorporating the current pop colour trend. The collection as a whole had a vegas show boat feeling, which I was totally in love with- actually there is not a lot of Dior's history that I do not obsess over!

Ferretti's collection was based on fantasy. The clothes were made primarily of chiffon, lace and crotchet which gave them very dream like qualities- evoking feelings of longing and desire. The use of pastel colours completed the collection so that the models somehow transformed from beautiful women into garden fairies, Ferretti commented backstage 'fantasty is so important'.

Sighting influences from his time working on the 'Diaghilev and the Golden Age of the Ballets Russes' exhibition Erdem presented a girly, soft and charming collection.

A selection of the pieces demonstrated the impact of the Russes with the clothes reflecting ballerina costumes and the footwear using pointe shoe laces. I challenge a woman not to fall in love with the elegance and the beauty of Erdem's S/S11 collection.

Whilst I have yet to see this floral trend be fully incorporated into the Australian high street stores I know I can always rely on the trusted ASOS.com and various other online fashion sites to help fufill my trend needs.

Firstly I think this little number does a great job replicating the feel created with the Erdem collection, not to mention it does the practical job of having a multi purpose uses- office to weekend attire. Vintage floral print dress- $59.95- http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Mini-Dress-with-Vintage-Floral-Print/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1657248&SearchQuery=floral&Rf-700=1000&Rf900=1465,1646,1573,1604&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Print


Maxi skirts are going to stay around a little longer so why not invest in this adorable skirt with belt- also on sale for $30.85- http://www.asos.com/Dahlia/Dahlia-Floral-Print-Maxi-Skirt-With-Tan-Belt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1619724&SearchQuery=floral&Rf-700=1000&Rf900=1573&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Creammulti


I do love a summer jumpsuit and Charlotte Ronson has created a lovely little number- on sale for a tidy $175- http://www.shopbop.com/floral-print-romper-natural-braided/vp/v=1/845524441895023.htm?fm=search-viewall-shopbysize

As we are all aware Nicole Richie is doing a fantastic job leading the style stakes season after season and this Winter Kate Shrug ticks all the right boxes for me and its on sale! - $112.50- http://www.shopbop.com/roque-flare-sleeve-print-shrug/vp/v=1/845524441901229.htm?fm=search-viewall-shopbysize


Until next time, happy shopping

X

nb/ all images taken from style.com

Sunday 31 July 2011

Colour me up


Hello lovely followers,

As you may have noticed there seems to have been a rainbow explosion in the high street with many stores jumping on board the current colour blocking trend.

Spring is traditionally always a time of light and fun; people start to make more social plans, outfits get a little shorter and one dreams of drenching themselves in sunshine.

There are a few designers this season who have recognised the link between these spring/summer emotions and impact of colour blocking on the spirit. Such designers include and are not limited to (everyone seems to have included at least one signature colourful piece in their collection)- Gucci, Christopher Kane (example right), Jil Sander, Versace and Dior.

As you would have noticed my main focus in each blog entry has been on the one brand that I believe introduced and dominated a trend however this week I think there is an even split of influence between Gucci and Jil Sander.

Gucci's S/S11 collection was in essence pure and simple glamour. Frida Gianni credited 1970's photographs from artists such as Guy Bourdin and Chris Von Wangenheim as well as the city of Marraskesh as inspiration for her clothing.

Both Gucci and Jil Sander did a fantastic job replicating the well established YSL colour pallette. Sander designer, Raf Simmons, summed up his bright collection with the eloquent words 'a mille- feuille of colour'.

What I love about this trend is that I think there is a colour for everyone that forces them to step out of their normal dressing comfort zones and be a little adventurous- just as the summer time should be!

I have no doubt that you will be able to visit a multitude of shops in order to feed this fashion need however I have done a little of the leg work for you.

If you feel like replicating the Gucci look then these are absolute gems:



Or if Jil Sander's interpretation is more your thing then this would be perfect:


However if you would prefer to mix and match than these two would like divine together
- Silk skirt- $89.95- http://www.bardot.com.au/Tie-Up-Shirt.aspx?p378012&cr=093008


Or maybe just include a pop of colour south of the navel with these two beauties:

- Mini skirt with pleat detail- $49.95- http://www.bardot.com.au/Diagonal-Skirt.aspx?p8794&cr=093200


Lastly maybe your tastes are best suited to embracing one colour and really owning it:



Whatever way you chose to wear it I can guarantee this trend will boost your spirits.

Until next time- happy shopping

x

nb/ all images courtesy of Style.com