Monthly Archives: May 2010

May28

Follow in the footsteps of the A-list and bring the eighties look back to life.

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Follow in the footsteps of the A-list and bring the eighties look back to life.

Singer Rihanna, actress Sarah Jessica Parker and the reality TV star turned designer, Nicole Ritchie have all injected a little colour into their make up palettes. This season sees the A-list sporting an eighties style statement purple hue on their eyes, this retro make-up trend has certainly been brought back to life for 2010.

Nicole Ritchie shows us how to work this look for summer by blending a pretty purple hue into her normal smoky eyed look, showing us that purple is the perfect shade for the party season.

The purple shade is a great style for those who have hazel, brown or green eyes as it creates the illusion of a wide awake look by brightening up the whole face and making the eyes really stand out. However don’t worry if you don’t possess eyes that are one of the above shades, there are so many hues of purple it has in fact become a universal shade and will therefore compliment blue eyes as well.

Make up artist to the stars, Ruby Hammer suggests that you should follow these tips in order to create the perfect purple look. Firstly you should begin by patting your choice of purple coloured eye shadow on the eyelids, for best results the formula should then be blended outwards.

To finish the look and in order to create a really dramatic effect, curl the eye lashes and then add a good coating of volumising mascara in a jet black shade.

May28

Pretty in print, work this season’s top trend.

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Pretty in print, work this season’s top trend.

With summer fast approaching it’s time to add a little drama to your wardrobe and exotic prints are the perfect way to spice up any look. This season certainly has some great prints to choose from. Work a statement look and team mix and match muted prints in out of the ordinary animal fabrics, make sure these are bold and bright in colour and opt for tribal styles or alternatively you can opt for a more subtle approach and add an embellished sandal with fringe detail to an outfit already in your current wardrobe. Sam Edelman has introduced some must-have gladiator style sandals in leopard print; they are priced at £102 and can be obtained from the online fashion store, My Wardrobe. To finish the look add a statement beaded cuff, wooden and gold enthused style seem to be all the rage on the catwalk. Diane von Furstenberg showcased an array of statement cuffs that truly echo African style, the oversized bands come in an assortment of colours and each has been woven into the band.

Take a little inspiration from this season’s designers, the brand Opening Ceremony have released a gorgeous gathered dress created using a burnt orange and intense blue palette, this is a perfect piece for a lunch date in the city or alternative a holiday abroad. It can be worn with either sandals or alternatively heels to dress the look up. This particular item is available from Harvey Nichols and is priced at £310.

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May24

This season’s colour crash.

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This season’s colour crash.

There seems to be two opposing elements causing a stir on the catwalks this season, clashing colourful statement prints and calm, cool graphic shapes. Each however is vital to the other’s success when it comes to building an outfit that works.

The statement colourful prints come in the shape of floral, graphic and digital patterns. The way to work this trend is to bear one rule in mind, everything should be thrown together, and items that normally wouldn’t be paired up have been. This is certainly a case of opposites attract and definitely a trend for those that are a little more daring.

This trend is a fresh and exciting injection to the previous looks that have been shown on the catwalk. The neutrals have been replaced by loud and exciting shades and intense hues, however these hues have been balanced out by uber stylish shapes.

This is a sophisticated and grown-up look that has been combined with a loud and in your face edge. Siren blaring statement attire has bonded with calm and classic taste. Work tailored A-line skirts and smart blazers with an embellished print scarf or shirt and you’ll have this look down to a tee. Add a pair of statement sandals, some over the top jewellery and an embellished bag to finish the look.

May24

Look brighter and fresher in an instance with a summer style blush.

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Look brighter and fresher in an instance with a summer style blush.

There is an array of blushers available on the market, from creams and tinted gels to mousse formulas and powders. The creams, tinted gels and mousses aid in creating a softer and more natural effect than the standard powder formulas, they also have the added bonus of lasting longer, this makes them perfect for the warmer months. These particular styles of blushers are also great for mature skin as they are extremely moisturising and won’t age the complexion.

For best results the preferred blusher should be applied over other make-up, depending on how strong or subtle you desire the blush to be depends on how heavy you should apply the product. For a more dramatic look a darker more intense shade should be used but for a natural, barely there look a lighter shade should be applied to the cheeks.

The blush formula should be applied to the apples of the cheeks; the best technique in order to do this is to smile. The product should then be applied using an upward and outwards motion in order to blend the colour correctly; the blush should run along the cheekbones and towards the temples.

Using a brush will create the illusion of both a smooth and flawless effect. If you are using a liquid tint style product, the formula should be blended quickly using the fingertips, as these particular styles of blush tend to dry extremely quickly.

If you have fair skin you should opt for a soft pink or peach palette, as these shades will brighten a pale complexion. Tawny and rose hues work better on olive toned skins and brighter pigments in lilac, raspberry pinks and plums are perfect for darker skins.

May24

Americana is one of the key looks to dressing on trend this season.

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Americana is one of the key looks to dressing on trend this season.

The Americana look is certainly right on trend for this season; everything from casual yet luxury sports wear to a down-home style has been seen adorning models on catwalks left, right and centre. Think Jessica Simpson in Daisy Duke-esque hot pants; denim is certainly the staple item to hitting this style on the head.

Firstly you should invest in a killer pair of jeans, look to brands such as Hudson, Current/Elliott and Citizens of Humanity. Once you have your perfect pair of jeans, toy with other items such as a denim shirt or a button down denim skirt, Stella McCartney showcased many of these on her recent catwalks.

Teaming denim with denim is still a hot look this year, but if you are a true denim virgin, then go easy at first and introduce just a few items to your wardrobe. A slim build checked shirt is a good start and looks great worn over a chancey bra, team with a little fringe or suede detailing then add kitten heels to finish the look. High top sneakers will add a retro edge to the ensemble and work well with cut off denim shorts.

To steal this style, try to imitate the Ralph Lauren preppy look circa 1992. Add a touch of cowgirl and look to Christopher Kane’s Gingham. The Americana look is a casual, practical and easy to wear style that is perfect for the summer season.

May20

Schoolgirl Braids make a comeback on the catwalk.

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Schoolgirl Braids make a comeback on the catwalk.

Maybe once upon a time braids were a school girl trend, now however this style is taking over the catwalks with models left, right and centre sporting a variety of hair styles. Braids have certainly erupted onto the spring and summer runways, establishing this hair trend as an alternative to the classic ponytail.

Alexander Wang was the first to introduce this style and worked a sporty, seventies version which echoed a certain edge of American cool. Hair stylist, Guido created fat, textured braids and messed them up a little by teasing out strands of hair; these braids were pulled to the side and ran down models’ shoulders. This unkempt style was also seen on the models at Margaret Howell where plaits were stress-free and surf like in style. The look was finished by applying lashings of salt spray to the locks and created the illusion of a day spent on the beach.

Giambattista Valli went for a polished look and kept strands weightless and piled high at the crown of the head, perfect for an evening look. Antonio Marras opted for minute and delicate fishtail plaits which appeared to be weaved loosely in and out of lengthy buoyant hair.

Long length and slender braids were all the rage at both high fashion brands Roberto Cavalli and Miu Miu. Alexander McQueen showcased miniscule and corn-row plaits which were braided extremely taut to the head, this particular look takes inspiration from fossil-inspired sculptures.

This is a perfect no hassle summer style and one which seems set to stay around for a while; it’s certainly a great alternative to wearing the hair down.

May19

Dominic Jones reveals his latest collection of gold and silver fang-inspired pieces.

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Dominic Jones reveals his latest collection of gold and silver fang-inspired pieces.

Up and coming jewellery designer Dominic Jones only recently launched his debut collection of gold and silver fang inspired pieces and the jewellery connoisseur already has a cult-like fan base. The designer released the uber cool collection in the spring of 2009; he currently employs model and good friend Alice Dellal as his business partner.

All of the pieces in the line offer the perfect mix between dangerous and sexy which is just one of the reasons why his name is currently on the fashion radar. He has in fact been spotted by some of London’s most fashionable.

He creates unique and desirable pieces in the shape of repellent living things and punk symbols which have been made lavish and enviable; his style is extremely simple and chic yet each piece has that added edge which is guaranteed to cause an impact. His gold and silver fang enthused collection is the perfect addition to any outfit, adding a certain rebellious twist to the ensemble. His work is created using five times the usual amount of gold than conventional hard gold plating, due to this process; pieces are able to offer a much higher quality finish.

His jewellery range for autumn and winter 2010 is said to offer a similar style in the shape of a variety of statement animalistic pieces, all of which conger up a hard-hitting yet striking style. Dominic Jones clean cut jewellery is sure set to be on the wish list of every fashionista come autumn.

May19

An engineered and well thought out take on fine jewellery.

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An engineered and well thought out take on fine jewellery.

The up-and-coming Swedish designer Fannie Schiavoni is infamous for her classic and structured style chain jewellery. The Swedish Jewellery designer puts all her attention into creating her pieces in both durable and hard wearing materials. The end results portray a complex, hand-made collection with an added tough edge. Her Scandinavian background positively shines through in her creations; each piece in the collection is both styled with clean lines and organised structure in mind.

Her C.V is pretty impressive in that the designer has worked for the likes of Julien Macdonald, Giles Deacon and Hussein Chalayan. Her idiosyncratic and individual style has caught the eye of many A-list celebrities and pieces from her collection have been seen adorning the likes of the stylish Emma Watson.

Schiavoni originally studied tailoring; she then went on to take a BA in a Fashion Design and Technology course at the London College of Fashion. Her tailoring background unquestionably reflects in her line of accessories in that she pays great attention to even the smallest of detail.

Most of her creations have been designed in a variety of toned down shades as this keeps the attention focused on the aesthetically pleasing shape and style of each piece.

This is one jewellery designer to certainly keep an eye on as she is said to only get bigger in the very near future, revealing an enticing line that will undoubtedly create a huge statement, adding a little edge to any outfit.

May19

Daisy Knights delicate yet edgy jewellery collection is a must-have on every fashionista’s wish list!

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Daisy Knights delicate yet edgy jewellery collection is a must-have on every fashionista’s wish list!

From delicate chains to statement chunky cocktail rings, jewellery is certainly well and truly back at the fore front of fashion and one particular jewellery designer is certainly catching the eyes of the uber stylish.

Daisy Knights jewellery designs conger up a rock’n’roll punk style, this particular line has certainly become a must have item on every fashionistas wish list. The innovative jewellery creations not only look amazing, they are also extremely ethical in that every piece is created using only recycled precious materials. Her current line includes punk skull shaped rings in gold shades with added crystal detailing, as well as statement feather earrings in an oxidised textile.

The inventive jewellery pieces are all hand made and start at a price of £75, meaning looking on trend and in style won’t break the bank. You can purchase any one of Daisy’s creations online; these pieces are certainly the perfect spring accessories.

The Central St Martins graduate has a very British style and is very zealous when it comes to keeping things eco friendly. The Cotswold based designer already has a following of A-list fans and her pieces have been featured in various high-fashion magazines.

Daisy in fact names each piece after those closest to her; this is certainly a unique and sentimental touch showing her inspiration to come from both family and friends. These silver and gold trinkets are the perfect addition to any outfit and make adorable gifts to be treasured forever.

May13

A new name takes the fashion world by storm.

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A new name takes the fashion world by storm.

The Cameron’s have now moved into the infamous Number 10 and all eyes are on Samantha. The question on everyone’s lips is will she become the next high-powered lady of British fashion?

The past two years have portrayed Sarah Brown as an extremely well-esteemed face in the world of British fashion. Her impressive closet consists of an array of designer pieces, these include collaborations from big name designers such as Osman Yousefzada and also the designer Erdem.

The fashionable lady in fact opened London Fashion Week, appeared at the ELLE Style Awards and was also seen on stage at the British Fashion Awards. Sarah Brown has also become great pals of the super model, Naomi Campbell. .

Though we will continue to admire this leading ladies style, our eyes have been caught by another woman in power. Samantha Cameron certainly looks set to become the next representative in the UK fashion trade. She already has an impressive set of fashion credentials, including taking the title of the creative director of the stylish stationary brand Smythson. Samantha spent the last fourteen years transforming the company into an extravagant label and one that is certainly adored by the fashion savvy crowd. She was also the initiator of the recent design alliances with both Erdem and Giles Deacon.

Despite having a husband with a top career, Samantha has said she wishes to continue her own designer role as well as also employing any political duties that may arise,.

The new leading lady certainly has a keen eye for style and was seen at both the Erdem and Burberry shows at London Fashion Week. Regardless of this she still opted for an M&S dress to wear at the Conservative Party Conference and has also been seen on numerous occasions sporting a pair of retro Converse trainers. She has shown us that both designer and high street items work well together and conger up an understated yet timeless style