Tag Archives: Trends

hot seasonal picks

hot seasonal picks

It is certainly the season to be jolly and also the season to start giving!  If you need a little present inspiration, look no further than here!  We have sourced the latest hot picks in order to reveal an array of cutesy gifts.  All of which are guaranteed to put a smile on a loved ones face.

Maybe it is the weather, the current economy or quite simply the fact that it is already December, whatever it is we are already starting to get in the seasonal spirit this year!

This year however we are all seemingly making a vow to be a lot more organised, which in turn means starting the seasonal shop early!

Plan, budget and try not to panic buy and you will be well on the way to purchasing your friends and loved ones an array of gifts they will just love!

If you leave it until Christmas Eve, chances are all the good things will be well gone!

Here are a few ideas to get your seasonal spirits buzzing with anticipation!  A satchel bag in a bright hue is a must for those that have a stylish office job or alternatively those at collage.  A leopard print phone case is another must for the designer savvy girl.  Silk scarfs are great gifts, especially if you plan on posting presents.  They won’t take up much room, yet will still create a great impact.

A vintage camera pencil sharpener is a must for those that love quirky stationary and lets be honest, who doesn’t?  Liberty stationary is also worth checking out, it will look super stylish on your colleague’s desk and will make the perfect work secret Santa gift!

Shoes for 2011

Shoes for 2011

Shoes are always at the top of any fashionistas new season wish list and this season is no different, this season however is working the wedge in a big way for 2011!

You nay be thinking that this was the shoe of last season, however 2011′s wedge has taken in a little revamp and instead comes complete with a peep toe design!

The best thing about wedges is that they are so versatile, especially when bought in a nude or salmon pink shade.

This season is also revealing a lace up wedge that offers a little something that can be worn with quite casual attire.

If shy show intends to make an impact this season it is most certainly the wedge, the wedge is an effort take in the standard boot and looks even better when spiced up with platforms, laces and two tone shades. This was the general look seen on the catwalk and also on an array if A-list celebrities. The actress Blake Lively was recently seen sporting a cute pair of nude lace up wedges, complete with on trend peep toe design, age teamed these with a cute summer shift in royal navy blue. She finished the look with a statement tote in the same shade as her shoes, a belt in order to cinch in the waist, a chunky jeweled cuff and statement shades, aviator style of course for Miss Lively!

The versatile wedge also looks great teamed with high waisted shorts, skirts and skinny cargos. The lace up boots will work well to five the whole look a slightly tough military feel.

The wedge is also a great day option as if offers a shoe that is a little easier to walk around on as appose to your super high favourite killer heels

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Beards and upcycling

Beards and upcycling

Yes it is 2011 and yes there are an array of all new and need to know trends on the fashion radar.  First up is facial hair, for guys not for girls obviously!

French Connection has this look nailed, think the kings of Leon when they first started out.  This is certainly a look that causes the boys to man up and concentrate a little more on their facial hair.

The face of autumn and winter 2010 sported some serious beardage on the catwalks and this look is staying put for 2011.  As well as looking uber cool and right on trend for 2011 you will also keep you face nice and toasty, a practical trend don’t you think?

The film ‘I’m Still Here’ was the hit that really started the ball rolling and showcased the actor Joaquin Phoenix sporting some serious facial fuzz.  Our ultimate bearded batchelor of course is Douglas booth, also known as D-Bo.  He’s the face of Burberry and the face of 2011.  He is also set to star in an assortment of up and coming films in 2011, is there anything this guy can’t do?

Upcycling is the new recycling in the world of interiors and is a way of giving a new lease of life to something worn and out of date.

Check out the artist Zoe Murphy for inspiration, she takes colourful famed prints, inspired by the seaside town Margate and applies them to 1970’s furniture in order to re-vamp the look a little!

Lou Rota is another name to note down when it comes to re-inventing granny’s old sideboard, the artist uses transfers to customise furniture along with old newspaper prints and re-found memorabilia.

Re-Found Objects is a similar brand that I based in Newcastle and offers a range of items, which is all created form recycled objects.  Check out the light fittings made from used glass bottles, a perfect kitsch piece for the home!

This season’s hair trends

This season’s hair trends

The catwalks have showcased an array of styles for this season, everything from super sleek styles to beach boho looks appeared on the runways, many of the looks even offered a definite nod to Studio 54.

With so many styles emerging for the 2011 season it seems like it will be a difficult task to choose just one of the many available.

One must-have look comes in the shape of ‘Miss Minimal’ and works paired down locks that offer a definite graphic edge.  The Calvin Klein autumn winter show had this look nailed and models sported the epitome of Manhattan chic, which was pulled together with a glamorous finish.

The hair stylist Redkin and the super stylist Guido created a softer take on the look in order to create an uber sleek pony.  Antonio Berardi ditched the styling serum and instead used his fingers to create a messy parting; he then looped the locks into a hassle free bun.

In order to create such a clean and simple style at home you must keep the products to a minimum.  Begin by creating a sharp parting, then smooth on a little gel or serum in order to hold this in place.  The Elvive Nutri-Gloss Light Reflecting Serum from L’Oreal is the perfect product to use and costs just £4.50.  Finish by securing the locks into a low pony and voila you will have yourself a sleek and glossy style, perfect for both the office and an evening out!

Winter shorts.

Winter shorts.

Just because the big chill is here that doesn’t mean you have to ditch the summer shorts, after all what true fashionista would let weather stop them from sporting a great look!  The secret to rocking a summer trend in the winter snow is all down to clever styling.  When it comes to investing in a pair of shorts, opt for a dark colour as appose to a lighter fabric, look towards tweed or leather materials.  Not only will you keep the winter chill out, you will be right on trend for 2011.

Work the layers and cover up on top with a thick knit or a blouse and fine knit sweater.  For a daytime look add a pair of trusty opaque tights, when it comes to the evening, defy the weather and bare those pins.  Finish the look with a star studded pair of statement heels.

The A-lists have certainly embrace this trend, stars such as the actress Kate Bosworth and Coco Sumner accessorise day time shorts with low key items, such as a draping beige cardigan al a Kate or a simple yet sophisticated blazer like Coco.  Finish the look with a cute pair of shoes and this season’s must have ankle socks.

Jessica Szohr was recently seen working a head to toe Tommy Hilfiger ensemble whilst Rachel Bilson opted for a Vanessa Bruno blouse and a tiny pair of designer leather cut offs.  Lauren Conrad works a silk khaki shirt and a pair of suede black stilettos with her high waisted shorts from the designer Rebecca Taylor.  Olivia Palermo shows us how to work denim cut offs in style by teaming them with a belted Barbour jacket and a pair of black opaque tights.  Jennifer Connelly reveals how to work a classy smart style by opting for an Yves Saint Laurent shorts suit

The trend-o-metre

The trend-o-metre

This season is moving on, and with it comes a whole new collection of fashions, attire and accessories for the New Year.

Bows are still big and now not only on clothes, but on shoes, head bands, jewellery, bags and an array of other pieces that are perfect for he party season. Prada has pimped out its pumps, using a few cutesy patent red bows in leather while Isabel Marant has worked a loosely tied fluffy bow into this season’s shoes. Why not improvise and pimp out your own pumps, invest in a little silk ribbon and attach them to the head of your heels.

Vintage is this year proving the most on trend look around. Raiding Grandma’s wardrobe is a must this season. Eccentric figures such as Diane Pernet and Lynn Yaeger are perfect examples of this season’s vintage style icons; take a little inspiration from any one of their looks in order to create your own style.

The rock chick syle is back for autumn and winter and this season is sporting a bomber jacket, Capri pants, laid back pumps, take note of the trends in the hit musical grease and you will have the rockabilly style down to a tee.

The 90’s are back and so are Doctor Martens. One A-list celebrity to take note of when working the nineties grunge trend is Peaches Geldof, she has certainly re-discovered this era for 2010. Another grunge style icon to look to goes by the name of Elaine from Seinfeld.

Warm is the new cool

Warm is the new cool

Now that the winter season is most certainly upon us, it is time to invest in a few heavy knits, statement sock and hot hats, such pieces are not only stylish for 2010, they are also a must when the winter winters are blowing!

Layering is thankfully in for 2010, meaning we can hide away from the harsh weather behind several pieces of attire, including snoods, scarves, hats, gloves, socks, snow boots cardigans and fur-lined coats. All of the above are great investments for the winter season and each piece is most certainly ruling the runway this year.

Winter fashion has definitely taking note of the cold weather this season and keeping warm has never been so hassle free.

A chic version of the ultimate new parka is now available and has been seen draped over many of the models on runways left, right and centre. Another popular choice for 2010 is the heavy military coat, which has made a fashionable comeback and the on trend leather jacket has been created in a slightly warmer style and now comes in the shape of a bomber jacket, complete with fur trimmed collar.

Keeping your toes toasty is definitely possible in a pair of this season’s big lined boots; team these with a pair of chic leather trousers for a contemporary twist. At last keeping warm is finally on trend and cool! Finish the look with an elegant scarf and an uber cute yet statement hat.

When, where and who

When, where and who

Where better to pick up this season’s must-copy fashion and style tips than the many star-studded red carpet events. The A-list appear to have invites to a variety of different parties every other week and each event most certainly requires an all-new outfit. From music shows to film previews, the stars are often seen sporting the latest looks at such events, making them the perfect places to pick up a few tried and tested style tips.

Showing up on Vanity Fair’s annual best-dressed list is now almost as major as getting the lead roles in a massive motion picture. The stars have to appear in the right places, wearing exactly the right outfit, which is why it is important to hire a stylist or two.

The events nobody should miss out on this season include the Golden Globe Awards, The MTV Music Awards, the Met Ball at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art in New York and of course the world famous Oscars.

These are the places to catch the latest looks on this season’s it crowd, including models, stars, actresses, designers and socialites. Famous faces to watch include Karl Lagerfeld, Anna Wintour, the editor in chief of US Vogue, Marc Jacobs and Alexa Chung. All of the above attended the Met ball in some of this season’s latest and must-have attire, Gisele Bundchen shone through the crowds in a statement Alexander Wang embellished black fringed number, that made her look like the ultimate sexy vixen. Alexa Chung went for a tailored style and worked the boyfriend look in a man’s outfit complete with a black ribbon enthused tie.

This season goes global…

This season goes global…

Think Marrakech prints, animal embellished items, tribal inspired pieces and a mix-up of neon’s. Combine these with this season’s military jacket and you’ll have the diverse techno traveller look down to a tee.

This is certainly an over the top look that is sure to get those that dare to wear this ensemble noticed! Its big on the catwalks and designers are certainly embracing global style this season. The eclectic knits, combat style and print embellished scarves are perfect for this year’s up and coming festivals, if it rains simply throw on an army jacket or team with faded and uber stressed denim or simply stylish harem pants.

Harem pants have proven to make an unexpected come back for this season. In order to create a flattering silhouette team with a figure fitting top and statement towering heels. A lot of the pieces this season have been created in rich silks and flowing chiffon fabrics. Add an embellished ethnic belt in order to tie the look together.

A key investment and that works with every aspect of this trend is the military jacket and this particular garment has been seen adorning various models on this season’s runways. Either work with statement black skinny jeans or throw over a cutesy pretty slip to add a little grunge-glam style to an otherwise girly outfit.

Finish the eclectic retro traveller look off with gladiator sandals, this season’s lace up grunge boots or buckled heels. This is the perfect trend to start off the summer with and an ideal look for any trips abroad you have planned.

Fashions new fixation.

Fashions new fixation.

First there was the fascination with fake fur in the shape of over the top over and whelming jackets in all styles and colours, then there was the need for a sun kissed glow in the form of fake tan and now, this season we seem to be obsessed with fake hair.

Big wigs certainly have the effect of adding an edge to any outfit in an over the top dramatic way and there appears to be three general types of this ‘new’ hair.  Firstly there is the blunt sharply cut fringes aptly named ‘winges’, then there are the rainbow weaves, which range in colour from shocking pink to aqua turquoise.  The final style appears in the shape of the low-slung plait; this can usually be achieved by attaching a ready made plaited extension to the base of your hair.

The fresh and innovative hairpieces offered at 2010’s catwalk shows are certainly different from anything seen before.  Instead of opting for extensions that match your true colour perfectly and in turn give the illusion of natural flowing locks, the new extensions can be as far from your real hair shade as possible.  Think vibrant pink combined with platinum blonde or deep turquoise on brunette shades.

Louis Vuitton showcased some real show stopping Afro wigs almost resembling the style of poodle’s hair whilst miu miu went for low-slung plaits fastened at the nape of the neck.  A real talking point was the structured wigs created by the stylists at Alexander McQueen; hair has certainly become a fashion statement.  

The amount of work that goes into this season’s hair pieces can take months of labour, the afro wigs created by Guido for Louis Vuitton took four weeks to sew together.  Hair is certainly the accessories of the moment and should be worn as a statement lipstick or embellished cuff would be worn.