Monthly Archives: September 2010

Maxmara goes back to the fundamentals

Maxmara goes back to the fundamentals

Minimal tailoring, new purism and athletic chic were the three words that summed up the new collection from Max Mara. Cuts appeared extremely simple in style, with no elements of detail in sight. The new line oozed a certain Jil Sander style, a perfect look to update your wardrobe for next season.

The colour palette was as laid back as the clothes and came in the shape of nude, yellow, purple, orange and navy hues, each used to its full potential and created as satin jackets, monotone backless jumpsuits, ankle length pants, and halter suede one pieces. Long-sleeved fine knits showcased a varsity style and were created with contrasting colour sleeves.

The smooth and sleek collection also had a certain element of sophisticated sex appeal. The main attraction of the show were the Palazzo pants, which appeared slashed to the thigh, these were teamed high-neck shirts. There were also an array of cutesy tiny shorts, which had been created to look like all-in-ones and a series of must-have sheath style tunic dresses revealing hotpants underneath. We have a feeling the all new simplicity of the MaxMara line will be extremely popular for 2011.

Designer duo Dean and Dan Caten take a step in a different direction for D-Squared s/s 2011 collection

Designer duo Dean and Dan Caten take a step in a different direction for D-Squared s/s 2011 collection

D-Squared usually put on some what of an extreme show when it comes to their catwalk collections, last year even saw them introduce naked cage dancers to the mix. However this season the designer duo Dean and Dan Caten took a step in a different direction for spring and summer 2011. Doing completely the opposite to what they usually do was certainly one way to get the audiences attention.

Models were clad in this seasons must-have rounded geek style specs and appeared as tom boy school girls. The catwalk was styled as a glamorous boudoir bedroom set and deep tans were the centre of attention.

The uniform standard grey v-neck sweater was re-vamped in cashmere and worn oversized with silk shorts. Other pieces showcased included khaki pants, which were paired with white socks and brogues, White broderiet anglais gym slip dresses, fisherman knits, trench coats and blazers. Pants were styled in a loose fit and denims were casually rolled-up in order to create an everyday ensemble.
There were however a few over the top pieces, such as extremely low-cut waistcoats and hotpant, certainly not suitable for school but extremely stylish worn else where.

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Designer duo Dolce and Gabbana work the bride for s/s 2011.

Designer duo Dolce and Gabbana work the bride for s/s 2011.

The infamous fashion house Dolce & Gabbana have this season illustrated the bride to full effect, with their all new spring and summer 2011 line.

Last season revealed something very different to that of this season and the designer duo presented a series of Dolce models clad head to toe in black, each showcasing the fashion house’s infamous blazer and big knickers ensemble. This season however they have overturned the visual, in order to reveal the exact opposite. The catwalk presented a series of pure white brides in lace embellished full-length dresses, baby doll styles and cami/shorts pieces.

The signature theme of this show as always was Sicilian sensuality and it began with an array of stills, revealing traditional Mediterranean scenes of Italians sewing, atmospheric vistas and also Madonna’s memorable campaign for the brand.

It wasn’t all white on the day however and as standard of the label a few black looks did exist, such as classic long-sleeved dresses, the bustier and hot pants, and a few skirt suits. One of the most talked about pieces of the evening was a re-invented leopard print dress, which came in the shape of next season’s on trend ¾ lengths.

Any one of the outfits showcased would make you want to get married all over again, especially the going away outfits, which came complete with diamante stripes embossed onto v-neck dresses and were finished with ribbon-tie backs.

Marni reveal an array of futuristic and high-tech fabrics for their all-new spring collection.

Marni reveal an array of futuristic and high-tech fabrics for their all-new spring collection.

Consuelo Castiglione, the name behind Marni has certainly taken a little inspiration from high-tech fabrics for the all-new spring collection.

The introduction of the high-tech fabrics has been described as a natural progression for the iconic fashion house, especially as the labels main designer, Consuelo Castiglione has a certain admiration for such high-tech fabrics, which is generally what lead the house to be inspired by such materials and also the occasions where you would need to wear them.

The spring and summer collections revealed a scuba and swimming enthused style, including pieces such as neoprene tunics and wet suit knee-length shorts teamed with nude leather swimming caps.

Marni has always had a definite talent when it comes to both colour-blocking and layering, such a style was still very apparent, with the likes of circle print tops, coral skirts and leather jackets in mint. In order to carry the sea theme throughout the collection, a shell-like frill was disproportionately attached to the bottom of both the tops and dresses and shoes were in fact designed with practicality in mind rather than appearance, such as the rubber-soled sandals showcased.

There was however an array of pieces featured, rather than just swimwear. Such items included flower appliqué gauze dresses in drawstring styles, which again have been designed to last.

Marni has certainly pushed the boat out for this season; pieces seemed less commercial this year.

High fashion label, Salvatore Ferragamo re-finds its roots.

High fashion label, Salvatore Ferragamo re-finds its roots.

The designer of Salvatore Ferragamo’s menswear side, Massimiliano Giornetti only recently took the lead on womenswear for the high fashion brand and since then there has been quite a stir surrounding the prestigious label. Despite revealing his latest collection towards the end of Milan Fashion Week, a huge horde of editors and buyers came to see round two of his must have creations.

The designer stuck to his signature style and as ever there was a definite 1970s luxes feel to both the spring and summer 2011 collections. Creations revealed suede full-length skirts, wide styled-lapelled jackets and a series of crochet swimsuits; each piece offered both a bohemian and aristocratic style all at the same time.

One of the most statement accessories to adorn an array of models was the headscarf; this particular piece was teamed with every look and came in an array of styles and colours including putty, navy and lemon. This re-invented accessory is vastly proving to be an elegant approach to summer style and such a look mixes both businesslike with sexy, in the shape of white and chambray trouser suits and backless flirty dresses.
This is one such label that is certainly hitting a high note on the fashion front and one we should all be watching for the future.

Todd Lynn works the sci-fi leather look for spring.

Todd Lynn works the sci-fi leather look for spring.

If your style is more sci-fi and offers a definite edge as appose to the ultra feminine dresses that we’ve been seeing gracing the catwalks for the past week then turn to Todd Lynn for inspiration. The Canadian designer is certainly sporting a luxe tailored leather look for next season’s and pieces on show are as sleek and chic as always.

The collection has been aptly named ‘Genesis Redux’, and was encouraged by the concept of both ‘new beings and new creatures’, working both armorial shapes and reptilian fabric into the mix, which really pushed the futuristic, sci-fi feel.

The pieces began with a series of pieces created in flesh tones and then morphed into powder greys and blacks. Neatly tailored dresses and smart jackets with gentle folds over the shoulders and python panels inserted into the fabric or strapped over the top of the silhouette.

Cigarette pants were created in ultra skinny styles and dresses were enthused with zip embellishments that curved down the length of the body. Jewellery included both high funnel neck creations and silver plated pieces; all were designed by the jeweller Shaun Leane.

The entire collection oozed a strapping, striking, and powerful yet luxury style, one that is perfect for those that like to add a little extra edge to their look.

Selfridges opens the doors of their latest venture, the Sophy Robson pop-up nail bar.

Selfridges opens the doors of their latest venture, the Sophy Robson pop-up nail bar.

Sophy Robson is renowned as one of this seasons’ most sought after manicurists when it comes to the fashion industry. The nail connoisseur was seen at an array of London Fashion Week has now revealed the exciting news of her all-new nail bar. The pop-up nail bar will be situated in the prestigious department store, Selfridges.

The salon will add a different twist to this seasons nails and will be creating looks and nail art inspired by the shoes currently featured in Selfridges’ new Shoe Galleries. Such pieces include creations from the likes of the infamous designer Christian Louboutin, the fashion house YSL and the designer Margiela.
Also available at the new nail bar will be the uber-cutesy Giles nail design, which Sophy created for the recent spring/summer 2011 show.

Designer nails are proving to be a must-have for this season and with Sophy’s nail bar offering an array of on-trend designs, there is certainly something to suit all!
If you re unable to get to Selfridges, then fear not…Sophy Robson has in fact created an online Beauty School on three how-to videos, enabling you can create her much loved nail art at home. Looks include Colour Changing, Animal Print and Embellished nails, look to Topshop Unique’s S/S 2011 show for inspiration.

Prices begin at £50 for a manicure complete with a design, an extravagant Medi-Pedi from £70 or alternatively a subtle Re-Polish, which can be obtained for a total of £20.

Kate Moss reveals a series of all-new dream bags.

Kate Moss reveals a series of all-new dream bags.

The stylish supermodel Kate Moss has revealed some extremely exciting news; the A-list celebrity in fact intends to launch a collection of all-new bags for next season. The arm candy is set to go live in January and the model will be collaborating with the high fashion label Longchamp. Kate has been a regular model for the brand for quite some time now and collaborating with the label seemed like a natural step for the model to take.

Longchamps’ CEO is currently Jean Cassegrain and is said to be very excited about such a partnership. Kate has revealed that the new lines are her ‘dream bags’ and that she has designed something that she personally would want to wear. It’s a good job that we all admire her for her style then!

The designs are said to offer both a contemporary but classic appeal and each piece has been created to last, rather than to only be in style for one or two seasons. The model turned designer has recently showcased a few of John Galliano’s creations for London Fashion Week, working alongside Christy Turlington and fellow models Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista. Such moments are a must see for fashion fans everywhere. Kate always looks super stylish; we therefore can’t wait to see what creations she comes up with the Longchamp brand!

Nicholas Kirkwood reveals his all-new pop up webshop for s/s 2011.

Nicholas Kirkwood reveals his all-new pop up webshop for s/s 2011.

The designer Nicholas Kirkwood has kindly decided to offer both fans and customers some spring and summer 2011 indulgence; however you will have to wait until February for it! Other designers to do the same include the fashion house Burberry, the designer label have already given their customers 7 days to order from the SS11 collection, which can be done via their website.

Nicholas Kirkwood has in fact opened up a pop up webshop to house his latest designs, these include creation from both Peter Pilotto and Erdem. Designs that are fresh off the catwalk are currently appearing on his website. However there s one rule, in order to get your hands on any one of the divine creations, customers have only until 8am on Sunday to order. That really doesn’t leave long so if you fancy a piece or two from the new collection you better be quick!

Burberry will begin shipping their Spring pre-orders in approximately six weeks, Nicholas Kirkwood for Peter Pilotto and Erdem creations will however not be dispatched until February. This still means you are ahead in the world of fashion by quite a few months!

Some of the prestigious and much-wanted pieces include a pair of futuristic stacked heels from the Pilotto label and of course the beautifully be-ribboned sandals for Erdem. All pieces are on site so make sure you check them out before they all sell out!

All tied up for A/W 2010.

All tied up for A/W 2010.

After many seasons of the catwalks showcasing an array of hairstyles such as braids, buns, and everything style in between, the ponytail has finally stepped it up a notch and once again taken centre stage for 2010.

Such a new era in ladylike chic was worked to perfection at the Louis Vuitton shows, where the renowned hair stylist Guido made models’ hair so full of gloss and health it practically sprang down the catwalk. At Michael Kors texture was certainly the main focus of attention and models showcased an array of wispy and wavy ponytail styles, this is the ideal style for a windswept day, especially when teamed with rosy pink cheeks. At Preen, models revealed regular styled ponies, which were pulled together with knot details, sides were smooth and ends were raggedy in appearance. The fashion house Stella revealed a master class in both contemporary style and simplicity, with the runways showcasing a series of high shine styles complete with a deep side parting.

The House of Holland as per usual went a little more over the top and added a certain edge to the all new ponytail look, the stylists gave models a chic and street makeover, revealing a series of hip hop inspired side ponies, teamed with on trend bandanas.