Espresso Style

Home is where the heart is...

2011-09-18T16:34:00.001+01:00

I haven't fallen off the face of the earth, I am in the middle of moving home, I will post lots when I'm back in internet land ...

The artist of fashion.

2011-08-16T11:56:00.002+01:00

Early christmas gift????? Anyone..... :)

AW11 Fashion Advertisements

2011-08-08T12:13:00.001+01:00

I'm loving some of the fashion advertisements out at the minute, and usually I flick over these when reading fashion magazines, so because they got my attention, I wanted to do a quick post, showing some of my favourites.

Menswear AW11: 'Maximum of Minimum'

2011-08-07T13:51:00.005+01:00

One of my favourite menswear collections for A/W11 is from the designers Sachiko Okada and Aaron Sharif, for their fashion label Blaak.

I love firstly the title of the collection, which reminds me of my work- in my photo shoot concepts I like to look at extremes, from maximum taste to minimal classics.

Menswear collections for AW/11 flirted with the androgynous look, the collections were also heavily influenced by functionality within clothing. Blaak's Maximum of Minimum collection does have these key styles and themes within their collection, but it's not overtly out there and in your face which I really like. You can see subtle greats in their pieces for A/W11- for instance, I love their black shirt with zipped collar, it looks fab as it is, but when the collar is zipped away, it gives the shirt another style.

This shoot below, from Dazed and Confused online, reminds me so much also of The Hurts style- one which you guys know I love!

This shoot in itself, is fab! I love the yellow undertones of the images, and the 4th image below is just stunning. The way the photographer caught the models movement yet shot the product so clear is gorgeous.

Carry on Camping

2011-08-07T12:51:00.012+01:00

Hello readers!

Sorry I haven't posted in a while, I have been on a fantastic rustic camping trip, and I mean proper camping with campfires, cowboy coffees and mess tins-the simple life really was bliss, and at the moment I've been working my behind off for UKGreetings, earning some dosh so this is why posting has been low.

But, with my first day off since my return from camping, I thought I would share with you a couple of camping photos from my fantastic trip.

Christian Louboutin: A Ballet slipper at new heights, literally.

2011-07-23T11:51:00.004+01:00

I did not see Natalie Portman in black Swan wear these for her perfect, final performance....

'Make It Hard' An artistic way to Recycle & Reuse

2011-07-23T11:25:00.006+01:00

I wish I could see the Helmut Lang's solo exhibit, Make It Hard at the Fireplace project, East Hampton. Although when reading Lang's interview on Hintmag.com there was a sentence in it that made me wince....

"What methods did you use to destroy the reported 6000 garments from your fashion archives?

Lang: 'The pieces where put through a big shredder truck under my supervision.'"

...wow, to imagine beautiful garments, with stunning detail be shredded in a huge piece of machinery, is an idea that is so far away from one another that this intrigues me. I wonder if this was a hard task- to choose which pieces to shred and which to have for Lang's archive, yet Lang seemed quite relaxed in his choices, saying, 'I shredded all the pieces without remorse or preference. It was about erasing the difference of what they once stood for.'

Although the sculptures look quite simple, in that they don't have complex silhouettes, I reckon when seen up close they are a very interesting sculpture to look at- to understand which collection each sculpture holds is quite interesting.

If anyone gets the opportunity to see it, please fill me in!

Designer: Phoebe Philo

2011-07-16T19:19:00.008+01:00

"I like the idea of women not showing too much, of being quite reserved"

I read a fab article today in the 'i' saturday paper about the reserved yet highly talented Phoebe Philo, designer for Celine, the french and very chic fashion label.

Since I noticed Celine back in 2008, when Ms Philo took over the direction and design of the brand, I have loved every collection, specifically Philo's first collection for the Celine fashion brand. As the article states, that collection was so right for the time and it was 'very well judged' as we were in the midst of a recession (back in October 09) and Philo herself 'was immediately hailed as being at the forefront of "the new minimalism"'. This is a key reason as to why the Celine brand, and Philo herself is ranked in my top 5 of my favoured designers: Philo discusses in the article that the fashion house chooses the best fabrics and the most creative and crafted cut, so that every piece is perfect for every collection, this again is another reason why I love Philo: her work ethos is contemporary and so right for the time.

Below are some of my favourite pieces from Philo's archive of collections for the Celine fashion label.

Fall11

Celine S/S11

Celine Fall10

Celine S/S10

Tilda Swinton.Tim Walker.Iceland.

2011-07-11T19:23:00.009+01:00

These three words can only mean one thing.

Strangely Beautiful fashion imagery.

I saw via facebook today the amazing editorial for W Magazine with the weirdly beautiful Tilda Swinton....I need to get myself a copy!

Photographs by Tim Walker
Styled by Jacob Kjeldgaard

Classic 'Hurts'

2011-07-08T12:26:00.003+01:00

As the Hurts are on their European tour, and I am graduating I found it fitting to have a Hurts blog post as my readers may remember back last summer, I listened to Hurts on repeat for 3 months- It got me through my last year of my degree! Not forgetting that I love their music and I absolutely love their look.

A while back now, I remember reading a magazine article where the guys spoke of their fashion choices and how they came about dressing and having the certain style that they do. It's really interesting to know that the guys used to buy their clothes from older high street stores such as BHS and good old trusty Marks and Spencers. They also however, bought from charity shops- buying cheap suits and putting their personality into each outfit with small styling choices. This is just fab! It really proves that no matter how much money you have or not, if you have an eye for style you can look, in the Hurt's case, as dapper as you want and although my primary occupation is styling, it's nice to know that Theo and Adam choose this look and style before any stylist could get a hold of the guys.

Interestingly, yesterday I was reading an article about Keith Lemon (a character created, based on a northern guy) and in that interview Leigh Francis, that plays Keith, mentioned that when he is out for the evening he dress's up well and he thought that this was a very Northern thing, which brought me back to the Hurts- both the guys are from Manchester and I think this idea can be seen in their band. They are both very dapper, their style is timeless and very classic. I know some people may think that wearing a suit is safe, but I don't see this as the case with the Hurts, and I know it may sound funny to say, but you can see when looking at how they wear there clothes, you are able to see a northern influence.

'Tears of Angels' Fall 2011

2011-07-08T11:41:00.006+01:00

I am in love with Givenchy Couture fall/11 collection. Fall seasons are usually full of gorgeous darks, blacks, navys, slate greys and dark aubergine, but this season sees white tones prominent for winter.

Givenchy's couture collection is beautiful. The chalky white and soft sand tones throughout are just stunning. When asked about the choice of colour for this specific collection, Tisci said: 'I try to find the light in the darkness' and Tisci, without a doubt has definitely found this and has created a gorgeous collection for Fall/11.

I would love this...

2011-06-25T14:37:00.002+01:00

How cute is this neckwatch? I love the trashy bling look of it along with the Casio style digital numbers. Fab!

CREATE Restaurant

2011-06-25T13:38:00.007+01:00

I also this week, had my first meeting with CREATE, our Marketing Strategy meeting for our fantastic new venture.

I have joined CREATE at a really exciting time at the minute too because we are near to launching our restaurant in August of this year, with the fabulous chef Richard Walton-Allen.

CREATE is a business that provides a place where people can rebuild life and hope, this place being work. CREATE runs a great business but with every penny made, this money goes right back into training, work experience and the creation of jobs for people who need them most. CREATE offer a great Employment Academy whereby a 12-week personalised work programme is given, in a safe, supportive environment to those who need it, those who may have lost motivation and confidence to get back into work after maybe a hard time in their lives.

The whole ethos of the CREATE brand is one that is honest, giving and truly caring to each and every person that walks through the CREATE doors. I worked for CREATE last summer and if you are a reader of my blog you might have seen some posts on FOUND- where I helped in all aspects, but specifically in merchandising the store, from the shop floor, to the window displays. I began working for CREATE because I am keen and confident in what the people at CREATE believe in, and I am a real supporter in helping others, and also working my socks off to enhance and build on a great company.

Our meeting this thursday went extremely well. In the meeting we looked at everything from our S.W.O.T. to our competition, to our commercial objectives and to our marketing and P.R, so as you can imagine the meeting was very informative, which I felt was very good for myself because then I could get a real insight into the whole process of marketing our restaurant from the word go. The restaurant sounds incredible and I'm extremely excited to see the end product, but I'm also very keen to watch the process unfold as to how to market, launch and open a restaurant. After the meeting, we all left with a job load of work to do but everyone is focused and excited about the next coming months. My task for the week is to really get under the skin of 'Corporates' and 'Bright Young Things'- these being key target segments in the City that we need to really understand for our restaurant. So this week I am going to try and organise some short interviews with these types of people to understand them that little more, to then really focus on where's best to showcase our restaurant.

Working with a great company is a real unique opportunity, in which I will grab with both hands and gain some real experience into marketing on a live event, to a nearing deadline. I'm looking forward to these coming months.

To see more about the CREATE Brand and it's new restaurant visit these webpages...

http://www.foodbycreate.co.uk/

http://www.createfoundation.co.uk/

'Red or Black' for ITV.

2011-06-25T13:29:00.000+01:00

Yesterday was such an incredible day!

Working with the ITV team was brilliant. My producer, Catherine Ellis was very hard working, focused but very sweet too. If I needed help with anything she was there, our sound man, Steve was a real down to earth northern guy who I gelled with really well, and our camera guy, Chris was a fab character and truly well experienced- he had once interviewed Margaret Thatcher, whom he called maggie as though they were best buddies. He was a lovely and encouraging guy (specially about my degree results which we were given yesterday).

The day started at 8am and for the first couple of hours myself and my friend Steph got to know the crew a little more, with plenty of hand shaking and smiles shared :) I was introduced to my producer and briefed on the day ahead. I just loved and thrived off of how calm and collected Catherine was, which I later found out why, as she has been in the business for many years and has worked on big shows such as Big Brother, Come Dine with Me etc so this was second nature to Catherine. Her attitude kept me calm too because, although I have worked on live events before, I hadn't worked on something as big as ITV so the nerves were there, but like I say, Catherine's attitude influenced mine and I just easily did the job I needed to do.

At around 10am all the crew made there way to the first game location, I should point out that the shooting of 'Red or Black' was in beautiful Roundhay Park in Leeds, West Yorkshire. So our first location was set on the great green cricket field. We firstly walked down a huge hill towards a giant bingo set up and after watching Ant and Dec introduce the game (which was surreal in itself: they're usually on my TV set, not stood right in front of me!) the fun then began! The first game got the adrenaline flowing- there were parachute jumpers, a very energetic and animated crowd and real, massive excitement in the air. I won't give out any spoilers of the game (which will be aired in august) but I will tell you that this was the first time I had seen a parachute jump and it really was incredible. When you see a small body jump from a plane and come down that quickly it kinda blew my mind, it just looked like so much fun, and after seeing that, I would love to do it!

So, after this 1st game the real work began.

My job for the day was a logger for my PSC crew, which is quite an important role as I needed to be very observant at every interview (we did around 40 in the day). I had to write down a detailed but edited description of any fab thing that the interviewee says and at what time,exactly. That way when the editors edit this part of the show they can filter through the things that aren't needed and get the best bits. At the first couple of interviews, I was just really getting the hang of editing the interview, experiencing working with a PSC and taking direction, and obviously I was new so my first few interviews I might not have been at my best but towards the end of the day I really got the hang of TV- the technical words, the best positions to be in etc and by the end of the day I did the job without any questions and real confidence.

After these interviews we then watched the next game: this was the general set up for the day, with 4 games in total. So yes, there is a lot of waiting around but it really is so much fun and you meet some great people.

After spending the day with the crew at ITV, Catherine asked if I could do the manchester filming with her, which of course I can! I need to grab any opportunity I come across. The filming in manchester is in a weeks time, but yes, after yesterday's day, I really would love to work in TV, in fashion still as maybe a stylist to TV presenters, or a celebrity stylist. Talking of which I saw Ant and Dec's make up artist and stylist, prepping the guys for there camera shots, and I thought that would be great if that would be me one day! I going to be in touch with them ladies in the near future and I'm seeing them again at Manchester, so I better get my business cards at the ready :)

I don't want to bore you with what I did ALL day, because it was a very long day and this post would be longer than it already is (and no one wants that) but I just wanted to give you guys a snippet into working in TV and working as a logger, because when I was younger I found it great to read about peoples' experiences to learn from them and understand whether it would be something I would like to do.

So watch this space for 'Red or Black' on ITV in August: the games are insane and fun, the contestants are mad and the team behind the show are hard working and incredible.

If you want to see a little of yesterdays happenings see here.

See the twitter feed at RedOrBlack

Diary quickie...

2011-06-23T19:32:00.004+01:00

I had my fab and fun meeting today with the Create team: the restaurant opening sounds like there's plenty of hard work to be done, but it's so very exciting! I love that i'm working with people who really do care about not only great food, but great people.

Over the weekend I will blog a little more about Create to let you guys know a little more about the company I'm interning with, but for now you can visit their websites @

http://www.foodbycreate.co.uk/

and...

http://www.createfoundation.co.uk/

Also very exciting news, I applied to work for the ITV entertainment show 'Red or Black' presented by the lovely geordie chappies, Ant and Dec, a couple of days ago and I got the job which is fab, so tomorrow I am a logger for the show. Again at the weekend I will fill you guys in on that as my day tomorrow is from 8am until 11:00pm so a long day ahead but again very, very exciting stuff!

speak to you guys soon and until then I will leave you with a fab image I came across today....

Diary Talk: catch up.

2011-06-21T19:45:00.006+01:00

Wow! Sorry readers I haven't posted in such a long time, with me graduating in the next couple of weeks my head has been all over the place, let me give you a run down of what's happening.

Ok, the film I was supposed to be working on, unfortunately the job fell through, I was and am, extremely grateful that the role was given to myself but for unfortunate reasons I am unable to be the costume assistant for the film, 'Piercing Brightness'. The film is still in the running to be shot so I look forward to seeing the finished product and with regards to my film reviewing, since I last spoke to you guys I have seen a variety of films: 'Rubber', 'X-Men: First Class', 'Hangover 2' etc.. I'm still inlove with film, I REALLY love it when you go to the flicks and you hear the 20th Century Fox music intro: that lovely feeling that the next couple of hours I can escape, it's such a fab feeling!

'X-Men: First Class' was really great actually, I went with friends and I embarrassingly hadn't seen any of the other X-Men films, but as soon as this film finished I went home and watched the first X-Men and I am now working through the films. I found it better to see 'X-Men: First Class', before I watched the other X-Men movies: it unravelled and highlighted the key characters. I haven't chosen a favourite character just yet, I will let you know when I do :)

'Hangover 2' wasn't as good as the first, but still the movie does make me giggle, and the film 'Rubber', I just came across because I went to see some friends in Beverly, and my friend, Emma, teaches media and film and it was in fact one of her students who said that she should watch the movie, 'Rubber' and my oh my, that film was just crazy! I read the back of the dvd and it just sounded that insane that it made me want to see the film. The film is about a rubber tyre who kills people- I know! If you ever get the chance to watch the film, do so, because I know it sounds very strange but it's that bad that it's good.

So, what lies ahead for me over these next couple of weeks? Well at the minute I'm on a marketing internship with the fabulous company CREATE based in Leeds, I will be seeing the beginnings of a restaurant to it's opening. I will be involved in marketing the restaurant and the company over these next few months- this is something i'm very excited to be working on, I have my first meeting this thursday so I will let you know how that goes. As mentioned I'm graduating this july, and I get my final grade for my degree this friday!! All the four years I've been studying for, all the hard work, tears, giggles, commuting, everything comes down to this grade so wish me luck :) I'm still working as a visual merchandiser for UKGreetings and I am collaborating with creatives on photoshoots so I'm still busy which is good.

Anyway I hope I haven't bored you guys, I just know it's best to keep communication on a high to just let you know that i'm still here. How are you guys doing? Do you have anything nice planned for the summer?

....fashion postings to come :)

Yohji Yamamoto: Pure Genius

2011-05-31T18:52:00.004+01:00

I am very excited to see this film.

This week in fact, I am in london attending Graduate Fashion week which will be fab! but whilst I'm in london, I might try and go see Yohji Yamamoto at the V&A, has anyone seen the exhibit? Thoughts?

Yohji Yamamoto: This Is My Dream from Hintmag.com on Vimeo.

Fashion Promotion with Styling: Class of 2011

2011-05-30T16:24:00.003+01:00

As we have finished our university year, and also my university life, as a creative group we have a class of 2011 Tumblr with each of our contact details alongside our imagery, please visit it.

Donnie Darko

2011-05-29T11:47:00.005+01:00

So my first film I watched for research purposes, was 2001's 'Donnie Darko' featuring a very young Jake Gyllenhaal, and my oh my was that film strange.Give it, it wasn't heavily sci-fi, but it did look at time travel and there was one main, highly odd, costume that run throughout the film.

Donnie is a very troubled teen, and he seems to find some crazy solace with his friend Frank, who appears from time to time in the film. Frank is a large bunny which only Donnie can see...see what I mean, a little odd. Donnie is a schizophrenic with a history of violence, and only recently has he stopped taking his medication and it's with this, that Frank appears in Donnie's life. Frank comes with news that the world is going to end soon and Donnie with this information, seems to begin to take a little control of his life, and the events that happen in his life, well not sane Donnie. When Frank visits Donnie he influences him to do certain things like flood his school, burn down buildings etc and it's all these events that seem to change and shape Donnie's future.

The film is quite a deep film, and with time travel as a key theme it can be confusing at times but I still quite enjoyed it, I would definitely recommend the film. It seems to be a classic, in fact, Donnie Darko is in the top 5 of Australia's My Favourite Film poll.

In terms of costume, as I've mentioned one key costume that ran throughout the film was Frank's bunny character, when you hear the word bunny, I think cute, soft small animal, not a grey, ghostly looking bunny with an evil face and grin. When I first saw Frank, my initial feeling was to laugh, maybe it was a nervous laughter because Frank is no cute bunny. Although the costume looks quite easy to create and seems like a simple idea, it's always those simple things that can really work. I went to see 'Insidious' at the cinema last week and although I did like the film, the constant shock, screaming and jumping did get a little tedious, I felt that the film would have been that little more creative by keeping those silences in the film, and playing with the viewers' mind. This is something I think Frank's character does, because it's such a simple costume but still eerily scary, it really works.

Diary Talk.

2011-05-24T17:15:00.000+01:00

Although I have now finished my Fashion Promotion with Styling course, a little work has followed my exit, which is always fab!

I am attending Graduate Fashion Week on the 5th June, I have my exhibition private view on the 10th June, on the 11th June and the 12th June I am involved in 'The Stylist's Closet' at the Trafford Centre where I will offer personal style advise to the male customer and then to finish off, I am a costume assistant for London based artist & filmmaker, Shezad Dawood's new feature length science fiction film, Piercing Brightness, so over these next couple of months i'm busy busy busy which is really great, after my last hand in yesterday I didn't want my schedule to become stale, and with all this ahead it looks like it's getting busier.

I will keep you guys updated of my whereabouts over these two months, I will try and post as many photos as possible to show you a glimpse into my world right now.

So with all this ahead of me something tells me I need to brush up a little on my sci fi film knowledge, I might start with Blade Runner or 1930's classic Metropolis: i'm planning on posting my ideas and thoughts of each film I watch into the run up on here, kind of giving a little review. I'm excited about these next couple of months, meeting new people, making new contacts and getting into the industry.

Relax...

2011-05-24T15:49:00.002+01:00

In my days of madness with me finishing my exhibition stand, I can get a little repose from this gorgeous image.

'Get It Loud in Libraries' collages

2011-05-14T10:13:00.004+01:00

I wanted to share with you lovely readers, my collage work I have developed for my 'Get it Loud in Libraries' brief we did earlier this year, to better my portfolio. I did have a sketchblog running alongside this brief you can see that here.

Here's my final images. (all on A3, portrait)

Global Cool: Fancy having a Traincation?

2011-05-11T20:26:00.006+01:00

If your a reader of my blog you might remember back to my post I wrote, after a fab evening out at the Global Cool: Turn up the style, turn down the heat, event held in Leeds back in January. That event was simply amazing, not only did we refashion clothing, eat yummy cupcakes and meet new faces, we were also blissfully being taught how to keep green. Global Cool's ethic and campaign of one that encourages people to think differently about greener lifestyles is a real trend at the minute within consumer thinking, yet Global Cool is a company that doesn't want to keep this as a trend alone, but is one that wants to make this idea become a real lifestyle.

Head to there website to see some fab articles looking at fashion, sport, entertainment, travel and some extra greenery. Oh and don't forget to check out their fab competitions too!

At the minute Global Cool is running such a great competition where you can win two tickets for a Traincation to Bern, in Switzerland, to the Gurten Music Festival from July 13-18th where you could see bands such as Kasabian, Plan B, Arctic Monkeys and plenty more. For an entry all you have to do is (via facebook) tell Global Cool which artist and song you would love to listen to on the Traincation (personally mine would have to be James Blake, 'Limit to your Love' or maybe Zero 7 'In the Waiting Line') then get all your friends to vote for your suggestion…simple.

Get yourself over to facebook.com now to get involved! Good luck everyone.

Collage is the medium

2011-05-10T17:07:00.000+01:00

Here's some lovely collage's I'm working on at the minute for my portfolio.

Exciting Type (Update)

2011-04-28T15:36:00.006+01:00

I did a couple more experiments with my letter 'n' for my university type brief. I started playing with past photo-shoots I have done by working on top of my fashion imagery.

Also, here's my imagery for my number '1' , what do you think?

Exciting Type

2011-04-27T17:19:00.009+01:00

For a last, small brief at university, each of us from class have been given two letters to stylishly create for promotional pieces for our course and the university. The two letters come from the words 'Fashion Promotion with Styling, Class of 2011': my letters I picked were lower case 'n' and the number '1' which will be used twice.

Today I have been experimenting with my letter 'n' as I know exactly what I will be doing with my number '1'.

I have done some research to influence my thinking for this mini brief, and as it's the last brief I will do for university i really wanted to create something thats traditionally me, to show what I'm about as a creative person, yet influenced with fashion. If you follow my blog you may notice I absolutely love collage, this is a real medium I wanted to try when thinking about this project, and I figured as my letter 'n' is that little more interesting of a shape, I wanted to use this for my collage idea. When answering this brief I want to construct, work onto/into and to collage: all my three loves when creating visual imagery.

Here's some pieces from today....which do you prefer?

(scanned in image of denim shirt, overlaid with text/font)

(The stencil of the 'n' I cut out myself, all the background images are pages from my past sketchbooks and earlier photo-shoots I have done throughout the course)

Style Icon: 3D Collages

2011-04-24T21:01:00.009+01:00

As part of an older university brief we had to style a still life fashion shoot, based on a style icon, which we then had to make into a 3d collage, my style icon i focused on for the brief was the ever so lovely 1960's beauty Anna Karina. Below is the final 3d collage, not only was it based on the fabulous Anna Karina, but we had to reference trend for a season, I chose to look at S/S11: with all it's gorgeous camel tones and feminine shapes I thought this was perfect.

To enhance this story and to further my portfolio direction, I am now in the process of producing a menswear story of the same format, only referencing a male style icon, the handsome and 'King of Cool' Steve McQueen, alongside reference to the A/W11 season. This week I shot the photography of all the clothing I will feature in the collage, here's a sneak peak of the style of imagery and still life pieces for my final 3d collage. I have to now focus my mind on creating these 2d images into a 3d collage.

White as white

2011-04-12T10:20:00.002+01:00

WOW!!

This all white couture-esqu dress is incredible. The collar detail is just fab.

Coming soon to ASOS.com

'The Housekeeping Society'

2011-04-12T09:04:00.005+01:00

Last night I went to a great album launch for a three man band: 'The Housekeeping Society'.

Before I went to see the launch I had an idea as to how the night was going to go when regarding an album launch, but I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised.

When thinking about music, specifically nowadays, people don't give time to think about the work and credit that goes into producing a song, let alone an album, so i just loved the fact that the guys had made a 10 minute film clip together for us to watch before the actual gig, it was really great to see what concept the band focused on, the idea behind their reasoning and to also see the band producing the songs and the album. You understand the amazing support that the band has from family and friends, but you also understand the passion and drive for each member from the band when producing this album.

The idea behind the album is one that looks at the lives and times of a community in a North England Mill Town, back in the 1880's. If you want to read further about the inspiration for the album, from the band yourself, visit here. You can also see a more personal side for each band member at their blog.

The gig was a great success, each song is fab, my favourite song has to be 'Little Boy Lost' it's just beautiful. I find the album a great easy listen: the band has a very folksy feel and is really right for the time.

In terms of fashion-wise each guy wore shirt, jeans and some sort of cover up-I noticed one waistcoat and a long coat, because of the concept of the album I would love to style the guys up in 1880's attire. Their look would be very dapper, very traditionally 1880's dress-top hat, lapels, cravat. Each guy did have his own style, I would keep this in mind, but by styling them as a whole band, I think there look would become more exclusive and complete.

I had such a great night last night and I'm really glad I have a new album to add to my music collection.

To see more of 'The Housekeeping Society' visit;

www.twitter.com
www.facebook.com
www.myspace.com
Website

Unexposed Expression

2011-04-10T12:32:00.011+01:00

I have just finished my final project at university, which is a sad moment really, I love being a student: being able to experiment and be insane in my work is something I love, and I believe, although when I do leave I will still be in a creative field, being a student I feel you are at your most creative.

Anyway....

Our final project was left open to each of us to decide what brief we wanted to work towards. This in itself is maybe something that again being a student you can really creatively drive the brief to how you want to answer it, maybe in comparison for when you work in the industry. So, for my final brief at university, I decided to focus on trend for A/W12. At university we are truly privileged to have W.G.S.N at our fingertips for free until we graduate, which is a massive, beneficial and sheerly amazing resource and site. For my trend brief I was attached to the trend site to figure out and understand trend in itself (as this was the first time I really studied trend) but to also distinguish trend for A/W12.

After 2 months of field trips (which included visits to leeds and london), a tonne of research and articulation, I began to understand and creatively experiment with trend ideas for A/W12.

My trend is called Unexposed Expression, it's a theme that lies with the new minimalist consumer, buyer and person. It's a protest against the digital and an exploration of simple, basic being.

For my actual project I looked at producing a trend package, these images here, are visuals from each virtual section- these are the visuals I created to showcase my idea and concept.

Concept:

Colour:

Structure & Form:

Materials:

Shape:

(all images & text copyright of Ashleigh Chapman)

Dazed and Confused Photoshoot: balmy whites, with mossy greens.

2011-04-07T19:38:00.005+01:00

I'm loving these images from Dazed and Confused latest issue, with the cover title, 'Birth of a Muse'.

I love the styling of Karen Langley's work. For this shoot Sharif Hamza, and Langley have really captured the consistent trend of the new minimalist. The setting is so simple yet really beautiful the mossy greens, and chalky whites compliment each other well. i am in love with the couture-esque white top, which is actually a garment from Pringle of Scotland!! It looks gorgeous and visually looks really strong, placed alongside the stunningly feminine Chloe shirt dress.

My favourite image has to be the image with the beautiful wooden chair, with the model in that amazing Fendi outfit, i love the geometric shapes and the lovely feminine, yet fairly odd, pose. I love the models image in the Comme Des Garcon outfit, her make-up and hair give the right amount of attitude.

A sexy shoot with undertones of femininity.

Refusal of fashion

2011-04-06T09:43:00.002+01:00

This is amazing....it's the cover of 'Rei Kawakubo:Refusing Fashion' book...

Juxtaposition

2011-03-10T21:54:00.001Z

Saw this and thought it was crazy beautiful.

Burberry Prorsum AW11

2011-02-21T16:37:00.006Z

I haven't had much chance to watch many live shows from this seasons London Fashion Week with me being extra busy at work and being in my third year at uni....but I made time to watch the always amazing Burberry Prorsum show, and again what a stunning show it was.

Before we were taken to the runway, we saw plenty of fashionistas entering the venue.....Kate Bosworth looked gorgeous in a Burberry studded coat, Ellie Goulding looked fab with her ice cream pink hair and creamy camel Burberry jacket, Alexa Chung looked stunning as ever, dressed in navy and black with a beautiful pop of pastel mint seen in her dainty bag- there was a plethora actually, of Burberry Bright bags making there way towards this seasons show.

Of course Anna Wintour came to see the fab show, and she brought something with her that I don't think I have ever seen her with, a smile...and her coat was fantastic, such a lovely print. I loved the way the show was screened and shot: the camera angle almost cut off the heads of most of the people on screen, so the clothing was key.

Anyway onto the show....

The gorgeous Jourdan Dunn opened and closed the show for Burberry AW11, but each look differed massively from the entrance to the exit. The show opened with a bright orange coat, the silhouette being oversized and quite boxy. After this look, many more Burberry brights came walking down the length of the runway. One of my favourite pieces, was a gorgeous Olive green coat- very practical but cut so well. This seasons silhouette looked quite boxy and as we saw with ss11, proportion play was definitely apparent in this show. I saw glimpses of military inspiration, there was a lot of lacquered black trimmings and fastenings on the jackets at Burberry. The coats looked very practical for aw11, which I love: to buy a piece of amazing fashion that actually does its job is fab! The jackets and heavy duty coats kind of gave me a 'prim and proper' sense but one with attitude and an edge. I loved the cute oversized flat caps too, with the dalmation-esque print, these were fun. The only print I saw from the show, other than the Cruella Devil white and black, was the tartan- in a variety of colours, mine being the monochromatic, of course. There was a gorgeous mix of textures on the runway too, I loved the 'posh poodle' sweaters and jackets. One colour theme I loved was a gorgeous black current purple with a soft beige-the colours just really worked together.

As for accessories the handbags were cute, and the shoes even cuter- they reminded me very much of a school girl shoe, but much more boxier and higher.

After Jourdan walked the last lap of the runway, the lights went down and came right back up again for the final walk through of the show- all the models walked the runway in very cute transparent sculptural raincoats, whilst snow fell from the sky.

This is why I love A/W.

Inspirations

2011-02-12T17:04:00.002Z

First came Beth Levine...

then came...

Benoît Méléard.

Incredible design.

A Classic.

2011-02-12T16:32:00.006Z

I love these images from the new SS/11 Dr Marten's collection.

The two models in the film are Phoenix Richmond and Louis Simonon (the son of the bassist from The Clash). Their look really catches the iconic feel and sense of the Dr Marten boot- this workwear, gritty punk look, but with a modern feel, with the clean lines of the styling.

Jamie Morgan, the photographer for this collection, has really captured the look of the brand within these images, you can understand he has real knowledge and style sense of the brand. I love the use of the stacked lacquered black chairs and the concrete blocks, the colours work really well with the shoes and the simple styling. Phoenix looks fab in her khaki green parka and those bottle green Dr Martens.

I love good old traditional brands that stick, and Dr Marten's will always be a classic.

Black Swan

2011-02-02T16:06:00.005Z

Wow.

Just wow.

I saw the eagerly awaited film this afternoon and it really is incredible.

Natalie portman is just amazing, her portrayal of both the white and black swan is just mesmerising.

I loved the costume throughout the film; the ballet tutus, the shrugs, the perfect pink ballet shoes and the contrast of the monochromatic theme that is adamant in every scene is stunning. The colour changes throughout the scenes as Portman's character, the ever angelic Nina, begins to mutate into the dark, black swan.

Nina is a ballerina in a heavily competitive ballet company in NYC, her life is dance and nothing else: never has the saying, born to dance, been so right for this woman, this woman who strives for perfection so much so it becomes part of her downfall.
Nina is given the main character of the Swan Lake performance, the Swan Queen, a part she has wanted and worked for for such a long time, yet she hasn't got the role as she wants it completely, when Lily (Mila Cunis), another dancer in the ballet company, is always over her shoulder. The role for swan lake requires a dancer who can play the virgin like, ethereal white swan yet one that can turn and switch into the dark, sexy black swan. At first Nina seems to struggle with the formation into the black swan but after a night with the personified black Swan, Lily, she grasps the role and doesn't let anything get in her way.

Visually the film is just stunning. You understand certain choices of camera placement, fashion choices, lighting ideas: everything about the film hints at comparisons and the sheer starkness of black and white- the two sides and differences.

There were certain parts in the film that my eyes couldn't move from the screen, and others, where my eyes were covered with my hands. The film was everything I expected, Portman's portrayal of Nina is astonishing, and like I said visually this film is by far one of the best I have seen in a long time.

V&R Menswear

2011-01-26T17:14:00.001Z

I love this look from the Viktor and Rolf menswear show.

The mix of fabric is stunning.

One of my Vices: Cute Jewellery.

2011-01-18T17:16:00.003Z

I love these adorable pill pins by LA-based jewelry label Cast of Vices.

You don't need to pop any pill to get your fix....just visit here to see the collection.

Black Swan

2011-01-17T10:17:00.002Z

I am VERY excited to see this film....roll on february..

Natalie Portman looks incredible...

GlobalCool: 'Turn up the Style, Turn Down the Heat'

2011-01-14T11:05:00.010Z

So this tuesday evening I was invited to the lovely GlobalCool, 'Turn Up the Style, Turn Down the Heat' event in leeds, at the Remade in Leeds studio, right by Hyde Park.

The night was fun, full of yumminess and plenty of gorgeous sweaters and fab fashion trimmings.

I took my seamstress/designer friend, Ewa, with me incase I needed a little help with my sewing technique- which I did because I think I chose one of the hardest fashion trims to attach to a gorgeous merino wool, navy in colour, sweater, provided by the yummy vintage shop- Blue Rinse, in leeds.

We walked into a warm,cosy room full of amazing fashion pieces from Antiform, designed by Lizzie. I was greeted by Rochelle, a lovely, down to earth woman who helped in organising the event- she showed us where the cupcakes were so we became best friends :) ...myself and Ewa had a yummy coffee from the cute, vintage cups and saucers, in an amazing room: it was surrounded by materials,fabrics and fab vintage table cloths.

After we were warmed up with good coffee, and unbelievable cupcakes (provided by The Marvellous Tea Dance Company) we walked through into the workshop studio (through a fab room, absolutely covered in manuscript paper).

There was en excitable creative atmosphere in the room, I was really excited about refashioning my chosen sweater...so with the camera's rolling, GlobalCool introduced themselves, as did Lizzie and then we became our own fashion designers and began to redesign our knitwear.

I chose a plain, v-neck navy merino wool sweater to refashion and make into something a little more stylish rather than very classic and chic. I was drawn to this type of knit because...oh my...so soft! Also, I have this type of knit in my wardrobe but I don't think I would ever pick it out of my wardrobe and start sewing, cutting and adding trimming to it, just because I would feel a little anxious to work on this amazing fabric, but with this event, it gave me the confidence to get on with it and start redesigning the sweater. I knew I wanted to add a collar-like piece to the knit, to emphasis the neckline, so I chose a gorgeous vintage looking doily to attach around the neckline: the big flower shapes and lacing added real excitement to the simple navy knit, the sweater looked fab once finished: I'm going to wear my new design to university, to show my fashion friends and without a doubt this sweater will be on my back for a long time, if i could wear it in the shower, I would- the soft knit, the colour and that little extra detailing is just gorgeous and very me.

Ewa, picked an army printed sweater and wanted to make it look a little sexier- she added black lace right done the centre and a cute sequinned bow tie at the neckline- it looked fab!

The event was brilliant, i'm very grateful for the invite: the music was fab, the people were friendly and very helpful, the cupcakes were incredible, the sweaters were amazing, even more so when we each got our fashion hands onto them.....

GlobalCool has another event in Brighton on the 25th January: all my Southern readers if you can get yourself to the event- you will definitely enjoy yourselves- if you love to customise clothes, if you have always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer, and you would like to save money (lets not forget the reason of the event- to turn down the heat and grab your sweater, and save on heating bills) this event is for you!

Thank you GlobalCool for inspiring me to go through my wardrobe and do some amazing customising to some of my clothing, for helping me with giving me great ideas to save cash, and for the fab evening.

Loved it.

To start the new year...stunning fashion imagery

2011-01-11T12:07:00.007Z

Happy New Year readers!!

Hope the festivities have been fabulous for you all.

...and yes, I know I'm a bad friend...I haven't updated on here for a long time, this is because I had 4 deadlines to complete for uni over the festive, mince pie eating period: I had a photoshoot for a live brief to do (which if you are interested in seeing my project from the very beginning, see my journal blog for the project); I had my first experience working with male fashion- I did a fantastic and very successful style consultation with my brother aka mrYen; I had to finish my journal for our christmas fashion show for university and I still have my contact book to do....so as you can see, busy busy busy bee I have been.

Anyway, lets move on, don't want to bore you guys anymore.....

So 2011, wow the years are going by quickly: New Years resolutions for this year- definitely eating less (such a cliche,sorry) and visiting more exhibitions to keep my creative juices flowing.

To start this year on here, I figured I would open with gorgeous imagery from an amazing photographer.

...

I came across this photographer from a blog I follow, Habitually Chic: this image made me want to find out more about the creative.

Guy Aroch's images are distinctive in that the colouring and the tone of the image is so timeless. The images almost look vintage like- I really love this look.

Guy has lived in the amazing city of New York since 1993, where he has grown as a creative person and his work has been influenced by the amazing surroundings. Today he is one of the leading photographers in fashion, beauty and entertainment. Specifically with his signature use of colour and tones, his images feel fresh, modern and unique.

Guy has shifted his creative abilities over to the moving image where he is directing pieces for his clients and editorial partners.

Guy Aroch spends his time between New York, London and Paris.

...what a lucky guy...

It's A Wonderful Life.

2010-12-30T11:00:00.002Z

Wow, the festivities have been manic this christmas! I hope santa visited each and every one of you.

XxX Hope you had a fab christmas, and have a fantastic New Year! XxX

The Black Raven

2010-12-17T15:21:00.007Z

This fashion film I saw today on SHOWstudio.com is absolutely beautiful. I kind of felt like I was in a trance whilst watching it, it's stunning.

Billie Piper, you see in another light altogether, her delicate movements and direct face really enhance the film and add to it's fascination.

The narrative of the film I love: the beginnning showing us the raven herself getting dressed, then onto 4 different looks, until the very end look and the blackest of black raven turns into a different shade. The director, Jez Tozer,
is just incredible.

A/W 2010 » Editorial
Taking inspiration from Negredo - a 'black blacker than the blackest black' and first element of the mythological process of alchemy - this film is a melancholy and emotional evocation of the dark mood of the A/W 2010 collections.

British Fashion Awards

2010-12-11T10:18:00.003Z

I'm so happy for Phoebe Philo for winning the Designer of the year award. Her collections, since Phoebe rejoined the fashion world from having time off after her time at Chloe, have been incredible and so right for the time.

Also, my favourite model of the year, Lara Stone won the model of the year award which again I'm really pleased about, (although she's not neccessarily british she has married a brit and one of her parents are british so whatever...) but she deserved it. Fashion in 2010 specifically, really showed love and enjoyment of the 'real' woman and Lara Stone played a huge part in that.

Diary talk.

2010-12-10T16:04:00.003Z

Wow, third year is incredibly busy, sorry all my lovely readers for not posting in such a long time.

Last night was a night where myself and my team members at university have been planning, organising and stressing about for weeks. We had our fashion show that we literally organised everything for...the models, the clothing, the decorations, everything. Soon I will be posting up pictures from the stylish night to give you guys an insight into my life at the minute :)

Also, tomorrow Gok Wan, the stylist to the public, will be holding his Fashion Fix in Leeds, in the gorgeous Corn Exchange, so after tomorrow I will have some fab pictures from that too.

I'm nearly coming up to my christmas break from uni, so I will be posting much more over the next 3 weeks, but I do have some very exciting brief's to do over christmas-I will keep you guys up to date with those.

'Folding Fashion' photoshoot

2010-11-25T10:56:00.005Z

These are my images for our last university brief, 'Folding Fashion'.

The brief was to concentrate on still life styling for a brand of our choice and to do the photoshoot, we needed to consider how we will show the clothing rather than the accessories in a still life fashion image, without a model.

My chosen brand is American Apparel, I chose this brand because I knew specifically that it would be a challenge to do a still life fashion story as their advertisments are and always have shown a sexy girl in the shot to promote the American Apparel 'product': I say 'product' because I don't really believe that the company is promoting it's products, I think American Apparel is promoting its lifestyle.

These are my images.

I wanted to use the bed sheet as a backdrop to my products to further highlight the sexual connotations AA has in their advertising, and I also wanted to take the product away to leave a silhouette of the product to evoke a story in the images. I leave the story up to the customer to work out.

Copenhagen

2010-11-16T20:13:00.004Z

I have won a place on an intensive research 2 day trip, to Copenhagen!!

I was so excited when I got the news, and still am. I'm very lucky to have been chosen and I appreciate it so much!

...anyhoo, whilst I was on a field trip with uni, visiting the amazing PHOTOLink studios in Manchester (Oh My...) I finally found Magma, the incredible magazine and book store and bought DANSK, the fashion magazine from Copenhagen, check me out swotting up already.

I had't really heard of the mag before I bought it to be honest, but the articles are really well written and actually made me giggle into my coffee cup in the library. The fashion imagery is stunning- and very Copenhagen-esque.

I cannot wait for the trip. Do you guys have any recommendations where I could find amazing- Fashion, art, music, film, coffee shops, food, beautiful architecture????

Folding Fashion

2010-11-10T10:16:00.004Z

Hi guys, you your all OK, just keeping you posted while I have a second to spare.

At the minute our new brief is about Folding Fashion, a still life brief, where I get to play with clothing, transfer paper, talc, flour and coco...should be a good one.

For now I will leave you with some yummy still life imagery that's inspiring me at the mo.

'Extreme Taste' Photoshoot

2010-10-27T13:12:00.014+01:00

You guys have absolutely waited long enough for these images.

Again apologies for the lateness I have been so busy with 3rd year uni projects, volunteering, starting my new job as a visual merchandiser for UKGreetings and being a dresser at the leeds fashion show...anyway this is my first photoshoot for the year.

My brief derived from a quote we were given where we had to re-interpret the quote into a couture photoshoot, based on the trends for Fall10.

The title for the brief was 'Extreme Taste'.

Photographer Charys Ellmer
Stylist Myself
Model Francesca Brooke-Fenton

Peek in pictures....

2010-10-12T16:24:00.002+01:00

Busy Busy Busy...

2010-10-06T16:19:00.003+01:00

I can only apologise for the lack of blogging I have done over these last 2 weeks, I am back at uni, and have PLENTY of projects on the go...in the next 2 weeks I have an exciting photoshoot scheduled, of which I will upload my pictures, but for now I will leave you with this simply stunning image,

until then....toodles :)

Burberry Prorsum looks SS/11

2010-09-22T12:26:00.005+01:00

I'm still trying to take in the amazing Burbery show yesterday, it really was phenominal. Here's a few of my favourite pieces from the collection...

(my review)

Ashish SS/11

2010-09-21T17:52:00.002+01:00

The video above is the music that accomppanied the Western themed Ashish london fashion week show. It has a fab and playful beat to it, much like the collection today.

I believe Ashish may have seen ToyStory 3, loved the film and wanted to create replica adult sized costumes, only much more glamorous and with a fashion twist for SS/11.

The first look to hit the runway (the models gave the runway a ton of attitude) was a Cowgirl, yes a cowgirl, with the hat and the boots, everything.

For the show, the boots seemed to become an advertising space for brands, specifically with MacDonalds, which is quite ironic considering the song. The golden arches were spread all over the footwear. However, this may sound very costume-like, maybe a fancy dress idea, but you can see Ashish's influences and his style is influenced by fashion. The fringing in the pieces for instance is gonna be a trend for SS11: I've seen fringing on recent shows in the past few days, maybe not this literal but still fringing is key. I felt an androgynous theme with this collection too, although there were some dresses, in sequinned leopard print, but some of the structure and silhouette of some pieces was quite masculine. Underneath the fringing you saw glimpses of the lovely loose trouser, in nude tones acting almost like a back drop to Ashish's artwork. The relaxed fit seem to run throughout the show too which is fab for SS11.

There was one look which took comfort to it's extremes: the model was dressed in sweats-soft, grey marl sweats with added fringing to the pockets and side seams of the trousers, so if you are feeling the fringing trend and want to see it in your wardrobe next season get those pins out and add fringing to some of your basic wardrobe staples.

When looking at past collections of the designers, you understand that from the outside the show looks fun and playful, but I think there's an underlying thought to his 'out-there' pieces.

A fun show and what a way to bring Jessie the cowgirl (Woody's friend in ToyStory) to life.

Burberry Prorsum SS/11

2010-09-21T16:37:00.003+01:00

Oh my goodness....

I have just finished watching the Burberry show, (I've been thinking about the show since last season) I've been so excited and when the live stream appeared on my computer screen I became even more so: the venue looked incredible, Christopher Bailey certainly doesn't do things by halves does he?

Did anyone else see the show? Or is that just a really silly question?

After seeing a couple of interviews before said show, which included the likes of Serena Williams, SJP, Alexa Chung and the god of fashion, Anna Wintour, the filming then went straight to the catwalk. Our view was more so from above so you could really understand the sheer size of the catwalk runway (apparently one of the biggest if not the biggest in the country for LFW). The floor was amazing although, if you did see the show: could you see the model falling before it happened? I could, I felt worried for her then embarrassed, but you know what, it was completely worth it, and I'm sure the model would say the same thing because if your gonna fall wouldn't you want to, in an amazing, heavily studded Burberry biker jacket?!

Anyway, enough about the show, lets discuss the clothes.

Burberry's statement trench coat this season was belted with fun, coloured belts, which juxtaposed lovely with Burberry's style of country/britishness. As for design of the trench, Bailey added leather with some trench coats whether as an arm, or trimming and most of the leather was quilted, giving the look a much softer edge although some of the trench's reminded me a little of the military look-quite structured and strong. The trench for Burberry also lost a little of it's length; alongside Burberry's statement trench there was a plethora of biker jackets (a definate trend for next year: well if it's at Burberry...): biker jackets that were heavily studded with spike studs or ball bearing studs where amazing (and they looked extremly heavy but gorgeous). My favourite biker jacket from the collection has to be the gorgeous, soft ruffled leather biker, the layering of leather looked beautiful and made the biker a lot more feminine. A note I also made with the biker was the amount of straps, buttons and detailing each one had, giving the look that Rock 'n' Roll feel.

In terms of colour palette, there were a lot of muted tones,specifically in Burberry's khaki green, but also some off beige colours too the only shots of bright colour were really seen in the accessories- the belts, the enveloped clutch bags. However, saying this, colour did come through in Bailey's dresses, which were just gorgeous- they were ruched and draped on the body, short in length: they reminded me of bandeau dresses but much more glamourous and sohpsiticated and the colours of these were stunning- soft mint green, dusted rose. The pieces looked really quite elegant, yet very wearable.

We saw leather pants again for the season from Bailey, with quiting detailing too- I kinda got a feeling of the equestrian look with regards to the Burberry trouser this season- some trousers were the colour of traditional riding trousers and looked skin tight.

To end the show, not only did the last model, in the last look, fall on the mirrored floor (oh dear) in those beautiful heels but the ceiling became studded with silver confetti. Very rock 'n' roll. Such a fantastic show.

Mark Fast looks SS/11

2010-09-20T18:36:00.004+01:00

Here's some fab photos of the amazing Mark Fast runway show at London Fashion Week...

(Here's my review)

Holly Fulton looks SS/11

2010-09-20T18:26:00.003+01:00

Photographs of the fabulous Holly Fulton SS/11 show at London Fashion week.

(here's my review)

David Koma looks SS/11

2010-09-20T18:18:00.006+01:00

Images from the playful David Koma fashion show...

(Here's my review)

Peter Pilotto looks SS/11

2010-09-20T18:13:00.003+01:00

Photos of some of the key pieces from Peter Pilotto...

(Here's my review)

Mark Fast SS/11

2010-09-20T13:14:00.003+01:00

Now this was a show that really took my breathe away. The pieces were absolutely stunning: in design, style and craftsmenship: just unbelievable.

A huge theme that ran throughout this amazingly beautiful show was fringing- and lots of it. Mark Fast is known for his creative technique: I like to think of it as spider-web design for knitwear and there was plenty to be had today at his show. There were many body con dresses, all like I say with his spider-web effect neckline, and many of the dresses had layer after layer of hanging fringing on specific parts of the garment, mainly hanging at the bottom of the dress, so when the model moves she promotes a gorgeous, sashay effect, or at the hips-the fringing kinda reminded me of curtain tassles, but obviously much more glamourous. You realise that Fast designed this collection with panneling in mind with each pannel connected to glorius sheer fabric (I think it was knit but it looked so delicate and see-through that I'm unsure).

Another trend running through the collection was embellishment, which we have seen for SS/11 already in other shows but none to Fast's effect. The pieces looked incredible and so delicate to touch, which juxtaposed really well with the models look. We also saw proportion play again with the layering of fabrics. As for colour, we had everything from dusted rose to tangerine, there was a fab strawberries and cream coloured garment that really did look good enough to eat. Alongside all the sweety goodness, there appeared a couple of Madonna-eque pointed bras, in a shiny, S&M looking fabric.

When the lights went down, I thought the show was over and I began to take in what I just saw, but then the lights shone bright and at the end of the runway there was a model, stood, wearing an unbelieveably intrinsic design. The lights revealed a heavily fringed, pure white sheer dress, fringed at the hips, arms and bottom of the dress: she walked to the flashing camera lights and stood for examination and for us each to take the detail in. This piece looked incredible and the presentating of it was amazing.

Such a great show, Mark Fast is fast becoming my favourite designer of the season.

Holly Fulton SS/11

2010-09-20T10:54:00.002+01:00

There was fun and colour at Holly Fulton's SS/11 show.

From the live streamed london fashion week shows I've seen over the week, Fulton's has definatly been one of the most colourful I have seen for SS/11.

The first look was a 'crazy paving' patterned blouse in loud tangerine tucked into a pencil skirt, which had added, what looked like faux fur, trimming to the seams:see what I mean, very playfull and so Fulton.

The collection brought to mind the Aztecs: the print and the embellished pieces specifically took me to this time- the colour too, there was plenty of fleshy tones all highlighted with emebellished necklines: the embelishment also enhanced the silhouette by trimming and framing the pieces. The collection was quite ethnic in inspiration.

Again we saw the skater girl skirt with some enveloped with furry-like trimming and as for accessories: the arm candy was chunky and shiny and the handbags carried were very boxy and quite mascuine in comparison with the overall look.

The sense I got from the show was of a 1970's glamour model/celeb sat by the poolside sipping cocktails wearing heavy costume jewelry, with her pulled back bouffant 70's do, catching some rays. A fab show and an exciting look into SS/11.

David Koma SS/11

2010-09-20T10:37:00.004+01:00

After Pilotto's fabulous collection: onto David Koma SS/11, the designer well known for dressing many celebrities including Cherly Cole and Noami Campbell.

I immediately realised that the skater skirt may well be a trend as I have seen it crop up for the past couple of shows I have watched, and I don't know wether I'm gonna grasp to this as I will the other SS/11 trends but still Koma made the piece look glamourous and sassy.

The collection boasted a lot of sheer panelling rather than utilising the fabric to adorn a full garment, which I thought was a fab way for us to buy into the trend in SS/11 if you, like me, won't be wearing sheer head to toe, Oh no no...we also saw more pleating at the show, this time much more softer, the detailing though of the pieces was incredible.

A silhouette I have seen recurring is the 'apron', and Koma is a designer who embraced this look without no hiding- he added fabric, directly on top on the underneath garment and pleated the fabric so the piece really stuck out from the waist and hips. I think this again is another trend that I may not be buying into but it's still fun and I like the idea. With this idea you can imagine the porportion play Koma had for this collection. It kinda gave me a sense of french maid, specifically when the monochromatic pieces walked by. I might take on this trend by layering fabrics over one another and playing with porportions.

The colour palette was one which was quite sombre for SS/11 really. There were nudes, white, monochrome pieces, shots of shiny gold and some lovely lemon sorbet colours. The fabrics again were sheer, some leather and I think I saw some organza- Koma here adding a little edge to his see-through fabrics.

Peter Pilotto SS/11

2010-09-20T10:00:00.004+01:00

Another fabulous Topshop sponsored london fashion week show.

This morning it was Peter Pilotto's turn of showing his inspirational looks for SS/11.

Again the show was held in the yummy location of the old eurostar building (with yesterdays Richard Nicoll beautiful show too) and again there was a plethora of sheer fabric gracing the catwalk.

The first look out was predominantly white (deja vu from yesterday anyone?) and absolutely gorgeous, when the model turned to walk back up the runway, the stunning,sensual detailing began to unravel: the back were of sheer fabric, it just looked stunning.

Throughout the show there was a lot of feminine shapes and textures, as mentioned the key fabric being sheer chiffon but we also saw soft suede, stretchy, slouchy jersey and some fab trousers, mostly white but with a huge shot of colour at the side seams, almost like what the fashionable crowd (but skint) people of the 1970's did to their 60's trousers to bring them up to trend-sew in more fabric to widen the shape and silhouette.

Pilotto played with proportion too which was cute and there was plenty of wrapping of textures over one another. Another trend I think we will see for SS/11 is the slashed skirt, Pilotto slashed the bottom of his long skirts (not midi,not maxi) right up to the thigh.

The collection looked very wearable, the women looked effortlessly stunning with a scruffy chignon and middle parting, and minimal make-up.

A great show for proportion play and playful with colour and tonal shades.

Richard Nicoll looks SS/11

2010-09-20T09:45:00.004+01:00

These are some of my favourite pieces from the Richard Nicoll show yesterday at London Fashion week.

(here's my review)

ACNE looks SS/11

2010-09-20T09:33:00.004+01:00

Here's some of the stunning pieces seen yesterday at the absolutely gorgeous ACNE womenswear london fashion week show...

(here's my review)

Michael Van der Ham looks SS/11

2010-09-20T09:07:00.004+01:00

As promised, here's some of my favourite pieces form the gorgeous Michael Van der Ham London Fashion Week show...

(here's my review)

Richard Nicoll SS/11

2010-09-19T20:06:00.003+01:00

So, I have ust finished watching the eagerly awaited Richard Nicoll live streamed london fashion week show: it was simply beautiful.

To open the show a guy walked the catwalk spraying a perfume to give a scent for the collection to come.

The first look was predominantly white and predominantly sheer. The looks to follow all had a very hippy vibe to them-the sheer fabric added a gorgeous gliding sensation to the clothing giving the structure a completly different look and sense. The key shape I noticed was the skirt-trouser, you remember those hideous pieces of clothing you used to wear in the 1990's, well I did, unfortunatley, and mine was in a hideous Viscose, cheap nasty fabric, now if I was presented with one of these pieces back then I would have gladly have boasted about it now because I would really be on trend for SS11. The pieces were not hideous here however, the fabric, pleated chiffon on top, added a beautiful tone to the garment. This show heavily showcased layering of the chiffon fabric and Nicoll played with proportions for most of his pieces.

The shape of things to come? Well Nicoll embraced the A-line skirt (a fall/10 trend) only, used the sheer fabric to add a much more feminine feel to the garment. After plenty of monochromatic pieces floated by, with a couple of shots of leather, we were engaging in a more romantic theme for the rest of the collection. The disco sheer fabric showed it's sparkling head again which was cute and a couple of laquered pvc-look-alike pieces walked on by. I also caught a glimpse of this seasons trend cape for fall, only this time the shape of said cape had turned into a more superhero cape than elegant country-girl cover up.

A very feminine show and I think the best show so far encompassing the sheer, chiffon fabric trend.

ACNE SS/11

2010-09-19T17:05:00.005+01:00

Just finished watching another fabulous London fashion week show, on live stream: ACNE SS/11.

Again with regards to the colour palette for the show it could be thought that the show was for fall, but when looking at the fabrics used: sheer chiffon, loose fitting draped fabrics, you immediately are pleasantly reminded that the show is for SS/11.

Before the show begun, we were able to glance at all the fabulous fashionistas arriving for the show and we also were able to have a good ogle at the space. The space was quite intimate and very charming, although I did feel as though I was stalking a living room of a well to do socialite and after seeing the collection, I admit that the space didn't give me any inkling for the clothing that was about to be shown.

I immediatley noticed with the first look the footwear, which I have seen crop up a plenty whilst seeing the LFW shows: the footwear trend for SS/11 may well be the block wedge sandal as seen as this show today.

As mentioned the sheer chiffon fabric showed it's floaty head again-mainly as pieces used to layer garments, I did see however a few blouses in the fabric too. ACNE also showed gorgeous outerwear pieces, with plenty of extra material for that comforting edge. The show didn't have too many accessories only a couple of handbags, grabbed not over the shoulder, and some fab eyewear- the spectacles, a mirrored lens, and small enough to cover just the eyes.

I like to think of the yummy show as a kinda 'Chic Comfort'

Michael Van Der Ham SS/11

2010-09-19T15:12:00.005+01:00

I have just watched the live stream of the Michael Van der Ham london fashion week show, and what a stunningly beautiful show it was. Set in a gorgeous building, with the fashion crowded audience to one side whilst the looks floated down the catwalk.

As always with this designer, his budget for the use of a variety of fabrics is huge, but so worth it. The colour palette was a stunning mix of chalky berry tones with yummy shots of sky blue embraced on the beautiful velvet strappy sandals worn throughout the show.

Again the SS/11 trend of sheer chiffon fabric was highly celebrated at the show with some gorgeous blouses with cute collars and fab velvet prints (kinda reminded me of those colour boards you could get when you were a kid-you remember the black velvet strips seperating each characters?) Also a trend I'm noticing for SS/11 is loose trousers (in season now) which is fab for those who very rarily wear dresses i.e. myself and they each came in beautiful colours from smudged grey to deep purple.

Some of my favourite pieces, along with the fantastic blouses, were the technically incredible and absolutely gorgeous tops with sewn in shawls, and sewn in goddess-like floating fabrics-very feminine.

The look for me, hinted towards a 90's woman, with the slicked back straight hair and acid yellow eyeshadow.

A fab show all round. Pictures posted up soon as.

Felder Felder looks SS/11

2010-09-18T19:17:00.004+01:00

Here's my favourite pieces from the Felder Felder show....I'm in love with the mushroom purple suede jacket and can you guys see the yummy disco sheer fabric.Fab show, great clothing.

(review is here)

Hannah Marshall looks SS/11

2010-09-18T12:40:00.004+01:00

So the yummy fashion photos from the eagerly awaited Hannah Marshall show have been posted....I posted a review for the show yesterday but here's the photos of some of my favourite looks.

(Felder Felder posted shortly)

Triumph Inspiration Award 2010: The Winner

2010-09-17T18:43:00.004+01:00

With london fashion week starting today, there's always a ton of fabulous events happening and last night, the grand finale of the Triumph Inspiration Award was awarded.

If you guys visit my blog (thank you by the way) then you may have seen my blog post about the Triumph Awards I wrote a couple of weeks back, (if not it's here).

I am so pleased that Nikolay Bojilov (Bulgaria) won the award, with his 'Morphology' design piece. It's times like this that I am really proud to be a student: Nikolay is incredibly talented, I cannot wait to see more of this guys talent.

1st- Nikolay Bojilov

2nd - Amaya Carcamo (Spain) 'Wood Sensation' (I really did love this piece though, I'm glad I didn't have to judge)

3rd - Lodovico Loffreda (Italy)

Felder Felder SS/11 & Hannah Marshall SS/11

2010-09-17T17:56:00.006+01:00

So after waiting a good hour to watch the gorgeous Felder Felder show and the amazing Hannah Marshall show we fnally got to see the stunning shows and amazing pieces.

F.Y.I Sheer fabric is a definate trend for SS11.

At Felder Felder, specifically with regarding the colour palette, the show could have been confused as a fall show, what with the yummy smudgy earthy colour tones throughout and the stunning suede and leather fabrics used. The overall look hinted towards the 1970's,especially with the big bouncy hair, me thinks the backstage was awash with hairspray, the hairstyle kinda juxtaposed the skater dresses that addressed the catwalk after some key looks. These dresses reminded me of the Louis Vuitton fall/10 show but a hell of a much shorter: more girl-like than lady-like. Again we saw the on-trend-for-ss/11 sheer fabric (darn, I'm gonna have to hit the exercise bike hard this winter and cut down on the christmas pudding)alongside feminine loose fabrics. I like to think of the sheer fabric from Felder Felder,as disco fabric: the last look was a black bodice covered with a long sheer overlay, studded with sequins.

A great show: fabulous, wearable pieces.

On to the Hannah Marshall show. Before the catwalk begun, we were shown a very seductive fashion film, (a Rankin film...I mean who else?!) that really highlighted the collection and what we were about to see.

(see the video here)

The looks to kick off the show reminded me of a sexy secretery. All dressed in black but with sheer fabrics: showing parts of the body that should be hidden at an office. The blouses were gorgeous, again in sheer fabric, black, but the cut and the simple detailing of the blouses were stunning. There were sexy, skirt suits to be had (never thought I would say that in a sentence before) with pencil skirts, sheer tops and boxy suit jackets. There was one key piece which I absolutely loved, it was a long black coat with the back cut out and panelled with sheer black fabric.

As the looks came walking through our secretery began to cover up a little but not with a frumpy granny cardi, or boring black suit jacket but with full body con dresses with added, gathered ruffle neckline and layered material pieces stitched to the hips and shoulders....a fabulous modern take on the elizabethan ruffle, these pieces had hints of couture really.

At the end of the show, whilst the models all walked the walk, seeing the collection together you can really see how tonal shaded, literally with each piece, the show was we started with a sexy secretary dressed in nothing but black and ended with an empowered Hannah Marshall woman, the colour of chic smudgy grey.

As soon as the photos hit the net, I will upload my favourites. Did you guys catch the show? Thoughts?

I ate style.com...it took me forever...SS11 part:2

2010-09-16T17:36:00.008+01:00

So today is the last day for NYCfashion week, but the always amazing,innovative,gorgeous and creative London fashion week begins tomorrow, exciting stuff!

But before then, because fashion is fast enough, here's a quick glance at some of my favourite designers of the last couple of shows at NYFW.

Mulberry-
-preppy looks
-neutral colours
-suiting
-redheads
-doll-like

3.1Phillip Lim-

-technically amazing
-mix of textures
-sheer fabrics
-apron idea
-neutral colour palette

Proenza Schouler-
-ladylike
-feminine
-sheer fabrics
-dreamy pales

Rodarte-
-1970's cabin
-natural theme
-woodland colours

I ate style.com...it took me forever SS11

2010-09-14T20:40:00.014+01:00

Another round of fashion shows for another glorious season and in my favourite city ever: New York Fashion week has begun.

Today I lived with style.com to check out all the New York shows so far. Some of the collections have influences from fall/10, specifically when thinking about the colour palette for SS11 (which is heavily white so be prepared if you don't like the white stuff). The lady of the time for SS11 so far to me, seems like the 1970's woman, the woman we embraced for Fall/10 too, so this is great for our bank balances but for those who are not fans of the blow dried huge hair, the loose trousers and the fab spectacles this may not be too good...but I'm loving the new season! Which is fairly odd because as you guys may know, my favourite season is always Fall. The only downside I have for the new season is the shear amount of sheer fabric that's showing it's light, airy face on the runways.

Anywhoo...these are some of my favourite collections so far.

Adam:
-preppy look
-lace
-sheer fabrics
-neutral colour palette-camel, burnt tangerine (big colour for ss11)
-very wearable pieces

Alexander Wang
-light colours-WHITE
-reminded me of freshly washed linen
-construction theme juxtaposed with fabrics-models had white paint in hair, slashes of rose gold on garments supposed to resemble duct tape

Derek Lam
-relaxed colour palette-more retro
-'Shades of the seventies in some pieces'
-denim
-safari look-lots of khaki colours, rusted greens
-gladiator sandals

Donna Karan
-desert shades of tan, honey, saffron
-'Raw Romance'
-crumpled texture-undone, sensual quality
-the whole colour palette of the show is stunning

Jason Wu
-'Spring is more dangerous'
-ladylike feel
-loose trousers-in neutral shades
-gorgeous preppy long blazers
-blouses
-sheer fabrics

Marc Jacobs
-1970's
-lots of colour-neutrals with berry tones
-fabulous accessories

Preen
-clean colour palette-chalk, soft greys-dreamy pales
-apron idea seen throughout

Thakoon
-white is the new camel
-sheer fabrics
-feminine elegance

Victoria Beckham
-looser fitting shapes (some pieces but mostly Victoria's trademark body-con dresses)
-neutral palette tone with shots of ribena purple

You guys have any favourite collection?

Louise Gray style

2010-09-11T15:49:00.002+01:00

Amazing fashion imagery: fantastic magazine-online.

Slashstroke.

Photography: David Poole

The classic It bag

2010-09-11T13:08:00.001+01:00

Is it me or is the IT bag of the season, from the gorgeous Phoebe Philo for Celine, the new Hermes Constance bag? They look very similar non?

Vintage Hermes Burgandy Constance bag.

RTW Fall/10 Celine handbag

Violet Vintage Jewellery, London

2010-09-11T11:59:00.005+01:00

Who doesn't love Vintage jewellery??

I absolutely love the stuff. There's no such feeling as finding a gorgeous piece of jewellery: a piece that's a one off to have in your red velvet jewellery trinket box. So when I saw a small article in Look magazine about a website dedicated to the yummy vintage stuff I ran to my desk to check out the products.

The pieces are incredible: (some too expensive for my student purse strings, but if I had the money..yes please) even the name, 'Violet Vintage Jewellery' is cute and stylish. The company even has a reworked section on the web-page which consists of a number of pieces of vintage jewellery that has been redesigned and reworked into more contemporary settings. Each piece is designed in Violet Vintage's London studio and handmade by an artisan jeweller in Lincoln. Each item is 'exquisitely boxed in our signature Violet Vintage packaging' and if it's a gift your after your personal message can be written on a sweet little card and popped into the pretty box. Gorgeous.

I know it's fab to rummage through boot sales, vintage fairs and flea markets (and being a student studying what I'm studying I do thankfully have the time to do this and enjoy it) but for those without a second to spare the site is perfect.

Here's some of my favourites..

1950's Vintage Stratton gold robin beauty compact £38

Silver Tone Oui & Non Disc Pendant £24

Solid gold vintage whistle charm on Edwardian chain £250

Vintage 1960's simple gold and pearl ring £85

Beautiful 1920s Blue Ballerina Compact £84

Vintage gold tone leaf bracelet £50

I am in love with Love

2010-09-10T12:51:00.003+01:00

The fragrance by Chloé

Goodbye cash.

2010-09-10T11:56:00.000+01:00

Oh my...H&M online!

I love the webpages homepage.So true.

On 16th September, the site will officially launch for the UK's online shop. So yay! No more snooty cashiers, no more rummaging through the sale rails and no more arm ache, we can shop the yummy basics, the amazing fashions and the absolutely gorgeous home range right from our beds if we like.

I've already got my eyes on a couple of things...

Exciting!

So good, it's HURTS

2010-09-10T09:16:00.001+01:00

In my email today, the newsletter from DazedDigital appeared in my bursting inbox and in that email there was a feature on The Hurts, the band I did a small post about recently.

The interview, shown through film, presents the stylish duo talking of their simplistic, minimal looks hailing from Debenhams, M&S and B.H.S: stating that 'there's no need to go to the expensive shops, those shops cater for every man and every man wants to look smart' The dapper guys discuss the idea of their clothing choices, is firstly as mentioned to look smart but to also let the music be 'the colour, the life, the imagination'.

To check out the interview and read the article see here.

Hussein Chalayan

2010-09-09T19:09:00.000+01:00

Does anyone else agree that Hussein Chalayan is the Damien Hirst of the fashion world??

'Hussein Chalayan' is at the Lisson Gallery, London, now and also at Spring Projects, 'B-Side' from 17th September

Y.S.L Right place...right time.

2010-09-09T18:54:00.005+01:00

I wish I lived in NYC....on the 14th of September, the streets of NYC will be filled with the yummy Y.S.L Fall 10 manifesto- the chic, gorgeous fashion pamphlet will be handed out in the streets.

The seventh edition of the Manifesto features Daria Werbowy in this season's YSL, shot by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin under the creative direction of Stefano Pilati. Not only do you get the yummy manifesto but a stunning zippered cotton bag that comes with it.

I mean it is fab that I can see it immediately on the net but it's nothing like the real thing. If anyone manages to grab one (Following New York, copies will be handed out September 18 on the streets of Paris, London, Milan, Tokyo, Hong Kong and, for the first time, Beirut) please give me a glimpse of the real thing.

Shoes glorious shoes.

2010-09-09T12:13:00.000+01:00

Early christmas gift?...Please

The Shape of things to come.....

2010-09-08T18:54:00.001+01:00

Celine RTW Fall/10

A Style Icon

2010-09-08T18:05:00.006+01:00

I bought a magazine the other day and read a fab interview featuring the very stylish, former model and fashion muse of the late Yves Saint Laurent. In fact Yves has been known to have called her his twin sister.

The model? Betty Catroux.

Y.S.L is a brand that I class as one of my favourite brands, ever since I can remember I have loved the androgynous look and Y.S.L is a brand that definatly embraces this confident, sexy look. So when I read said article I quickly logged on to check out the history of Yves' muse and seriously, this girl has lived!

Catroux has been an inspiration to many in the fashion industry; Hedi Slimane, Tom Ford, Stefano Pilati and as mentioned Yves Saint Laurent. Over what sounds like an amazing 40 decades, this lucky lady has sat at the right-hand of one of the most creative, stylish and chic designers that the fashion world has ever had the priveledge of knowing. In the interview she discussed her relationship with Yves, saying,

'Eventually everyone else fell away and it was just the two of us. We lived in a golden cage...a closed world of our own making'.

Catroux is famed for her unique look, and after looking through many images of her I can truely understand Yves liking of her: in some images I can see characteristics of the late and incredible Y.S.L. Her look is very much the new season too- she has a 60's vibe about her and her long, blonde locks remind me of the 1970's feel we have seen on the catwalk for fall.

'I think that Yves sensed that we were alike inside; we had the same anguish and the same ups and downs - wanting to die every five minutes then wanting to dance'.

'A sense of humour in life is an enormous bonus'.

'Yves and I never talked about fashion; I hate fashion. We just talked about what we felt and what we thought'.

'We didn't want to grow up, and our dream was to live a never-ending childhood'.

The Runaways

2010-09-08T17:52:00.005+01:00

Who is excited to see The Runaways? starring Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie and Kirsten Stewart as the androgynous Joan Jett. After watching the trailer and seeing countless images in newspapers and the internet...I cannot wait. The fashion really resembles most of the catwalks for fall/10.

If you wanna read a fab article on the films costume designer, see here.

R.I.P Corinne Day

2010-08-31T17:06:00.002+01:00

What an amazing photographer.

AW10 Wardrobe lusts

2010-08-30T18:15:00.004+01:00

I'm really excited about the new season pieces. The trends this season I love too, especially the camel colour palette-it's absolutely gorgeous. Some pieces i'm gonna buy into for AW10 will hint towards the ladylike trend-mainly the box ladylike handbags and some kitten heels but then on a complete opposite I wanna buy a heavy, chunky knit sweater in a nude tone and belt it with a skinny tan belt. I'm gonna buy some key simple knits too and style them with pearls or gold trinket necklaces too. In regards to keeping my feet all snuggly I'm gonna invest in some super soft loafers and some shearling trimmed booties.

What you guys gonna buy into for the new season?

Boxy Lady Leather bag, Topshop, £50

Brown Loafers, River Island, £39.99

Ribbed Tunic, Next, £30

Fine Knit grey sweater, Next, £16

P.S 11

2010-08-27T20:15:00.002+01:00

How hot are these two yummy statchels from Proenza Schouler's fall collection!!

In yummy black

or Ivy-League brown

Triumph Inspiration award 2010

2010-08-24T14:11:00.004+01:00

I love to see students' work, not only to check out my competition but also to see the new designers and creatives of the world of today. I love to learn about peoples influences and how they come about certain ideas, so when I checked my internet world today I read a fab article about the 'Triumph Inspiration award 2010'.

Young designers from many different countries and many different backgrounds, have created some amazing lingerie designs for their entry pieces for this award. The pieces are incredible. Rankin has photographed the entries while Helena Christensen has modeled each design: the images are recognisably Rankin- shot on a clear background, very focused which is key because the pieces speak for themselves. Overall, there were 27 entries I saw on LOOK Magazine's webpage. Whilst looking through the images I seemed to be more drawn towards the block coloured, more masculine looking pieces, this is my personal preference though really: alongside the masculine pieces there's some cute feminine designs too and I spotted a few futuristic pieces, channeling the late Lee McQueen's work(see france and china entries).

It's great to see the different entries from around the globe because you get to understand the designers inspirations and you get a sense of their country: the atmosphere, the attitude and style. I believe a persons surroundings, wether consciously or not, forms part of their design. Physically- regarding the fabrics and materials used but also metaphorically.

Out of the 27 entries featured, I picked some of my favourites.

Bulgaria

Finland

Great Britain

Greece

Spain

UPDATE: A Sprinkle of SALT.

2010-08-22T16:41:00.000+01:00

So I finally got to see the film the other day, after watching countless adverts on the TV, and it lived up to my expectations: I really loved the film. I became quite envious though of Angie, I mean who wouldn't want to be a kick ass detective?!

Anyway, so the more closer it came to the premiere night of the film, Angie has been out and about, I say this so blasé but hey, when you see her at the premieres and promotional events she looks stunning, almost like she hasn't been flown all over the world to promote her film.

So in regards to my last post, I wanted to check out what style choices she has chosen since.

Here's a couple....

Jolie in the french capital. An effortless beauty.

Pamella Roland Gown.

A gorgeous shot. In london.

Elie Saab navy blue, ruffled front dress.

Jolie in London, in a gorgeous Amanda Wakeley dress.

Hurts: The Stylish duo.

2010-08-21T16:56:00.000+01:00

In this weeks LOOK magazine, there was a small feature on the northern band 'Hurts'. Yes they have had Kylie Minogue feature on their album, but the thing that really struck me was their look.

Theo Hutchcraft and Adam Anderson are the band members of this classy, electronic duo. After I saw the image in LOOK I had to check out their webpage to find some more yummy images.

In 09 Hurts was featured band of the day on the Gaurdian's webpage and they finished 4th place in 2010 on the BBC Sound of 2010. However, their first album is released this september: I am excited for the music itself but I cannot wait to check out the CD sleeve. Previously, their style and music has been compared to

'A moody and exceedingly stylish duo from Manchester, Hurts inhabit an enigmatic, cinematic black & white world where they construct melancholic 1980s-inspired electro-pop'.

At this time, images really will speak louder than words....

Scarlett Johansson for MANGO- the adverts.

2010-08-21T16:01:00.005+01:00

Have you guys seen the new Mango AW10 ad campaign, featuring, again, the natural beauty that is Scarlett Johansson?

I don't really buy Mango clothing, mainly because we don't have a store near by, but when I visit a city and I see a store I go in to check out all the lovely accessories and timeless fashion pieces. I like the companies advertisig campaigns too- specifically when Penelope Cruz became the face of the brand, and I do like Scarlett in the new campaign but I just feel the picture editors have taken away some of Scarlett's universal look. She is known to be quite curvacious and in my opinion she opposes 'the celebrity' look.

The ad campaign was shot by photographer Mario Sorrenti in Los Angeles: the stylist, Camilla Nickerson, make-up artist Stéphane Marais and hair stylist Oribe, completed the team for the shoot. Each artist here is amazing at what they do, the picture editors really don't need to photoshop the image to the extent they seem to have done for this campaign.

What do you guys think about the campaign?