Friday 31 December 2010

Keep it real girls...

I just wanted to say how much I lovveee and admire these women below. And not because just because they're talented and stunning. No, no. Because, right - sorry to talk about this taboo so freely - they don't have ANY boobs. Yet, they don't go and get mega plastic surgery and look like some sort of awkward blown up balloon. Instead, they flaunt it, and let's face it, look pretty darn good.


So it's true - there is no need to worry! Follow these great examples, and it's just shows how you don't need ridiculous EEEEEEs to look fab, or to impress a guy. If they can do it, so can we right?


It's crap like the below that makes me angry - would you really want to look like that? They just look so stupid, and to be honest, if you're one of those guys who needs something like the below to date a girl, then, quite frankly, you don't deserve to marry anyone. Or maybe Janice Street Porter/female version of Voldemort.


See. These women just look ridiculous, and it's such a pathetic attempt at getting publicity. Do they have any dignity left?









And as for Heidi Montag here. *vomits*









x

Thursday 30 December 2010

Wait, they what?

Ok, this post is a bit of a long shot. Fashion - Celebrites - Gossip. That's what I'm going for. So, if you don't care about celebrities (I don't blame you), then look away now - quick get a blindfold, burn you eyes out or something etcetc.

Now, so, celebrities live the perfect lives, right? Beautiful, rich, sucessful, popular blahblah. And especially the ones which are married and with kids, cause now they have a beautiful family too. 

WELL. This is what we are MEANT to believe. Therefore, the astounding amount of divorces and break ups this year, has burst this little perfect bubble for me. Waaah.

The list of break ups below make me sad:

- Christina Aguilera and whatever-her-husband-is-called (Oh! Jordan Bratman)
- Kate Winslet and Sam Mendes
- Sandra Bullock and Jesse James (AS IF YOU'D CHEAT ON SANDRA, SHE'S AMAZING?)
- Cheryl Cole and Ashley Cole
- Rachel Bilson and Hayden Christian
- Jim Carrey and Jenny McCarthy
- Eva Longoria and Tony Parker
- Courtney Cox and David Arquette (WTF!)

I know. I mean, if hot stuff like Cheryl Cole and Eva Longoria can't keep their man, what hope in heck to the rest of us average souls have?! NONE.

It's true to say that this celebrity-marriaged-bliss is all a lie. LIES AND SLANDER. Or maybe it's being a celebrity that's the cause of the problems? Maybe us normal-average-Joes stand a chance at marriage, because, well, we're average?

There's always one big difference though. When they get divorced/heartbroken, they can treat themselves to a five star hotel in the Bahamas with an entourage of slaves, and drown their sorrows in retail therapy. Us lot, on the other hand, have to make do with crying into a tub of Ben and Jerry's - true Bridget Jones style - whilst worrying about bills to pay, and living with the fact that our career is going NOWHERE.

Life really isn't fair.

These two break ups below have to my favourite/most shocking:


Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens

Not so perfect are weeeeeeeee Zanessa? Now Vanessa can wipe that stupid smuge smile off her face....

"We're all in this together...!" *ohshutthefeckupdifkjueldkgoaway*
















Ryan Reynolds and Scarlet Johansson

AS IF. JUST WHY? You'd think two people as perfect/pretty as eachother would stay together, but noooooo.

My life is ruined. Well, not really.

This does mean that Ryan Reynolds is single though, so YAY! (even if I'm not lovin' the beard?)











x

Wednesday 29 December 2010

A rather hypocritical post - how to be "individual" in fashion...

Individuality.

Is that really something that can be achieved through fashion? People always go on about how they express their true "creativity" and "feelings" through what they wear.

We all know that's lying. A BIG FAT LIE. Because, no one wakes up in the morning and goes, "Wow, I feel like putting on some leggings and a huge woolly jumper, cause that's how I'd like to EXPRESS myself, and that will REFLECT my mood". No, no. People wake up and go, "oh crap, what can I find that's vaguely fashionable and won't get judged in?!"

So there's the stark, obvious, and predictable truth about fashion. And, don't get me wrong, I still love fashion. I still want to write about it, follow it, wear it. What I don't like - this is a massive annoyance - are the people who THINK they are quirky, and different, and individual, when in fact, they are the ones conforming to fashion THE MOST.

I'll paint you a picture.

In my school common room a couple of week ago, I saw three girls in front of me. And they were wearing the following:
-Camel chinos
-Brogues
-Knitted jumper
-floral scarf
-flower in their hair
-brown handbag, vintage style

They were literally wearing the same outfit. The only difference were the varying amounts of irritation beaming off their faces and into my eyes. How could they not notice this? And, although I have no physical proof, I could tell by their stance and pompous-cowish expressions, that they FELT quirky.

If you wanna be quirky, don't wear a giant over sized jumper and a pair of leggings because that's FASHIONABLE.

To be different, individual, look at what people are not wearing. Get rid of anything remotely vintage. Try futuristic- maybe some shoulder pads? Wear things that looks horrible on your Dad. That's right, bring back those 90s blue jeans that awkwardly hang at the ankle, and maybe a Millets anorak. 

Don't try to be quirky by conforming. It's hypocritical (a little like how this post is with the rest of my other posts). Don't look through fashion magazines, or watch what celebrities are wearing.



HAVE NO FEAR.

Just, accept that fashion, like most things, means following and being a sheep. Admit that you're a sheep. It's ok to be one.

Baa.

x







Tuesday 28 December 2010

Death by sales - don't be fooled...

It was almost like some sort of battle ground.

There were piles of clothes scattered in various places across the store, most of them disregarded and left to be trodden on, with some of the lucky remaining few still balancing unsteadily on the tables. I could see two women in the distance reaching for the same jacket, and then trying to gently snatch the jacket off one another, and the queue went round the store like a huge snake, it's tail stopping just before the doors.

This was a shopping centre by the way. Actually, to be more specific, this was a Zara store that I went to on Monday morning. Hectic doesn't cover it, and just the sheer amount of people was a bit overwhelming. I could see girls walking past me with hundreds of items piled in their arms, whilst I stood in the everlasting queue with only one t-shirt and a skirt.

Honestly, it's like people were buying all their years worth of clothing in one day! Although, we know that's not true at all - we'll be back shopping in February for some retail therapy, even if we have no money.

But why do we shop so much in the sale? What is this almost compelling attraction to discounted items? It's become a festive tradition, and for women, it's like a obligation to the female race.

Because, if I'm honest, these sales are nothing spectacular. Dresses in French Connection aren't suddenly 50p, and half of the clothes in the stores aren't even on sale. That's why, as I carefully made my way round the shops on Monday - or rather, as I got pushed and practically beaten around every shop -  I was just shocked at how much people were buying. Had I been transported into some sort of upper class society shopping centre, and thus surrounded by rich people? Was the recession and failing economy all a lie?

Because, when I actually looked at the sale items, there was only about 25% off, if that. I mean, the skirt I bought was £17, from around £24 before. Not exactly a huge amount different? I could still see jackets going for £50, and boots way over £30. Basically, the sale WASN'T that good.

Yet, there were thousands of people? And why?

Just a bitta Santa Propaganda for you....
It's all down to advertising of course. The media. How sales are hyped up all year round, how we are taught, and conditioned, to think that we need to go to them, that they are spectacular, and that we will save hundreds of pounds. Which, of course we won't. In reality, we'll save about, hmmm, £10 off a dress maybe? And, even if we do find a bargain, it doesn't make up for the money spent over Christmas, or the fact that we'll still be shopping later on next month with a higher tax increase. Great.


So, I'm not saying never go to sales, because, let's face it, the industry needs us to be spending. Just make sure that you're not completely fooled by what you see on TV - things may be on SALE, but it doesn't mean it's CHEAP. And it doesn't meant it's GOOD either.

Just a thought...


x

Thursday 23 December 2010

A completely pointless Christmas post...

I'm so sorry, my dear blog.

I have neglected you for over two weeks. And the worst thing? I can't even blame it on work, or school, or anything. The only thing I have to explain my utterly sinful lack of blogging is, myself. And when I say myself, I mean, my ridiculously lazy attitude, and a horrible bout of writer's block. This isn't a good sign, considering I want to be a journalist - we should be able to make ANYTHING interesting. Even paint drying. Or a local football team winning the country championships (be honest, no actually gives a toss about local football/dancing/tennis teams. Or anything related to local schools).

I'll be honest. This post is going to have no direction, no meaning, and you'll probably gain nothing from it. Except for maybe a snigger at some ironic or sarcastic remark I make.

They say that fashion is always changing, and therefore there is always something to write about. However, since I've already spoken about f/w collections, and Christmas outfits, my mind has a reached a blank. Total blank.

So. The word "books" appears in my blog title, but how much have I actually written about books? Erm, like, one post. Oops. But! Do not worry, I have bought a book in the last week, and despite not finishing either yet, I thought I could mention it here.

It's called, "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" - you might have heard of it, and it was the New York Times bestseller (just some little persuasion there). I have only just started this, but, trust me, if you like Austen - or actually, if you DON'T - then, this book will really suit you. It's still written in Austen's style, but this time, the Bennet family must continue their search for marriage, whilst fighting off a zombie plague. Cue matrix-style combat, rotting corpses and detailed descriptions of torn limbs, and crunching skulls. Definitely a lovely read this Christmas.

(The film version of Narnia is on in the background as I write this, and I can't help mentioning - don't you think the actress who plays Lucy is just bloody awful? The Chronicles of Narnia tried to recreate the same type of hype and success that circles Harry Potter....and well, it, just, erm failed. Probably cause they're crap, but hey!)

I apologise for the rather ironic and blunt tone I've got going on in this post - it's not quite as lively as my fashion blogs, as well, writing about fashion makes me happierrr (oh the cheese/cliche). I should make a lovely cheery Christmas post, full of sparkles and festive joy, but we all know that Christmas is totally commercialised nowadays, and lost it's true meaning.

Scrooge much, I know.


I'm going to leave now before I start waffling on about even more depressive things like the Christmas-Weight-Gain, and the miserable-ness of having no one to kiss at midnight on New Years.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYBODY.

(To recover from the sad mood this post has given you, just think - Ryan Reynolds has divorced....)

x

Thursday 9 December 2010

What to wear this Christmas?

This f/w may be all about jumpers, patterns, woolly hats and fairisle patterns, but it's a whole different story for those Christmas parties and New Year celebrations. Want to look fab at them all? Keep reading...

Sooooo, I was having a flick through magazines and the internet, and realised that parties, and even Christmas Day if you wanna go full-out, has taken elements of this winter's style, and given it some of Santa's magic (ok, ok cheesy line).

Basically, what I'm trying to explain, is that the Christmas/New Year look is far more glittery, sparkly and flowing - not to mention tons of sequins - that whats been around this year. It contrasts to the plain jumpers and masculine military looks that are around, and is actually a refreshing. It's a great chance to feel much more feminine, but still keeping some vintage and aviator elements to the outfit.

For those who want to take full advantage of the feminine feel, then choose items like flowing cape dresses and layered maxi-dresses - nude pinks, and white will compliment each other, as will adding glittering jumpers, cardigans, and even feathers. These looks can be completed with some ballet pumps, or slim heels, with some minimalistic jewellery and make up. Almost fairy-like I think!

However, if you still want to incorporate some edgy-ness, quirky add-ons and even hints of masculinity, aim for black shift dresses - the A-Line styled ones with no belt can even create an almost masculine feel, which you can mix with leather/aviator items (jackets, trousers) from autumn's trends.  Wearing shirts - nude, or black - and pairing it with sequin shorts, or skirts can be quirky too, as will adding on socks-into-sandals, lace-boots, or large jewellery. Finally, add some reow with messy hair and smokey eyes.


One tip for all to follow for this look?

Red Lips. Mwah.

x

P.S Merry Christmas Everyone! - whether you're dressed completely in fashion (like the above) or - like most of us - spending Christmas day looking oh-so-fab in a pair of pyjama trousers and a reindeer jumper. Just too cool really.


(All items shown can be purchased on the Topshop website)

Thursday 2 December 2010

Just a thought....

I'll be honest, today's post is going to be one of those let's-just-keep-writing-and-hope-it-goes-somewhere...kinda thing.

There's one obvious thing I can write about of course, and that's snow. It's always such a huge thing over here in England - places like New York, Stockholm and Moscow function perfectly with the snow, but London turns standstill, and the media goes crazy for it.

Not that I don't like snow of course. Just came back from my garden - its practically up to my knee! Nothing better than running through a untouched bit of snow ahhh :)

But all this snow got me thinking. I've had three days off school now due to the conditions, and if I'm honest, it starts to get a bit..bboorrrinnggg (yes, I did just say that. I'm sure I'll take it back the minute I have to go back to school, but you knoww). It got me thinking of holidays, oddly enough - travel, seeing the world, new experiences. We spend so much of our lives do little things that don't matter? I think if I took the amount of time I spent on the computer, or watching Friends re-runs, I have a couple months back of my life.

My brother-in-law said to me today - I was making up an excuse to not go sledging, since I had just got up, and all comfy in my pjs, the idea of going outside in the cold was a no no - and he goes, "Really, Nicola, one day life is just gonna pass you by..."

Oddly, this actually stuck with me a bit today. Which is why I made up for the lack of sledging by running around my garden and making snow angels. One thing I would love to do, would be to travel. Wouldn't you? Go shopping in New York, have a coffee in Paris, try surfing in Australia. Our world today is so career-headstrong, which I like too, but I think sometimes we just need, well, a break? Maybe actually see the world whilst we're young?

So, I've decided to write a list of all the places I have to go to before I die. (Happy, I know). Here is it: (you could do one too?)
- Australia
- Italy
- Japan
- Africa
- Paris (ok, so I've been to Disneyland when I was 7, but as an adult is completely different!)
- And last but definitely not the least - AMERICA. Yes, I've never been there before! I'd love to visit Hollywood and LA - maybe meet someone famous?!, New York (of course) and beautiful places like San Francisco. And also, everyone has to go Las Vegas at least once?

And there we have it. Pretty pointless blog entry you might think, but all I'm trying to get at is, maybe there's more to life than essay deadlines and pleasing your boss? Just a thought.



"Life is what happens to you when you're busy making other plans" - Lennon


x

Saturday 27 November 2010

Time for a change - Men's Fashion...

Writing about men's fashion isn't really my strength, but after being bugged by one of my friends, I decided that it would be an interesting change, and even helpful for any female readers too (you know, hinting to your boyfriends and all...).

Since not knowing all that much about men's latest trends, I did a bit of research - and by this, I mean have a look at a couple of men's online shops. As I said, detailed research!

Ok, so I may not have done a full-on undercover investigation, but I still have some decent facts and ideas now about the latest male trends...so sit back, relax and enjoy.

It's plain obvious that the men's fashion is going to reflect what women are wearing at the moment too - so look out for vintage, miltary and back-to-basic looks. The thing with men's fashion is that, unlike women's, it doesn't catch on at the same scale at all. Women everywhere are strutting around in army boots and aviator jackets, but how many guys wear knitted granny-chic jumpers, or fairisle wooly hats?

Some of the in-trend men items at the moment are definitely for the brave only - things like the "comtempary punk" look - skinnies, leather, and thin scoop-necked tees, and other items such as trench coats and even - yes, I did see this on a men's winter collection - ponchos.

Guys that aren't really in for the quirky look should try and stay clear of these items, and if I were them, I'd follow more simplistic - yet still great - trends, like the miltary look. A pair of grey chinos could take you far (just make sure you don't pick any that are too tight/baggy), as will a decent miltary styled jacket - although, those who want to keep it a bit safer/tougher looking should opt for the shorter miltary jackets, with double-breasted buttons, rather than the long ones with a pulled in waist.

Another item that's pretty good for those safety guys are knitted jumpers. Now, I'm not talking about those overly-decorative styles that look a little bit like what your Grandad wears at Christmas -i.e fairisle styled - but the jumpers that are sophiscated, and very hot at the moment. Plain blacks, greys, dark blues and browns are pefect, and easy to match with other styles too. This knitted look also works well with layers - whether it's tees, jackets or shirts.

Luckily for men, most of their fashion always stays pretty much "in". Hence why, if you're more a denim guy than chino, then that's still working too. Try jeans which look distressed, partly faded (not overly faded or white, no nooo, not in winter) and dark - these can easily be paired with a knitted jumper, or even some army boots if you want to spice up the outfit. Print shirts are also very much in, if the vintagey look isn't your taste, and this very much allows you keep that mordern look. (Try matching it with a checked "lumberjack" style shirt to add some pattern).


However, all those quirky-guys do not despair! This f/w collection is PERFECT for you. Men's style right now is definitely 70s influenced - albeit without those flares - and this gives you a great change to mix and match. Just little things like keeping your top button done up instantly gives you a quirky edge, and adding a scarf is another brilliant tip. Shoes are also a fantastic way of making your outfit stand out - try wearing a pair of desert shoes (bright coloured ones if you can brave it!), as well as brogues and boots. There is a huge variety of boots out there to choose from - braver guys try opt for styles like chelsea boots, or high legged sparrow boots, and safer guys can choose plain brogues, or plain fold-down boots. And finally, simple things like tucking in shirts, short jackets and belts can complete the trend brilliantly.

Basically, whatever your style, just stick to what you're comfortable with - there is so much to choose from out there! (Zara, Topman and H&M will do the trick).

My final tip for all men?

Avoid leggings. (fashion doesn't always get it right)

x




P.S Yum, male models, hmmm...


               

Thursday 25 November 2010

Back to Basics...

In need of a new style or trend to follow? Look nooo further, I have just the thing...

So...structure, elegance and tailoring - the "Basic" Look, and one that isn't everyone's cup of tea..(hmm, tea).

This seems to be emerging into this f/w, and although it looks fabulous, it can be expensive to pull off properly. It's very much about having those few quality pieces - no disposable fashion from Primark - but instead, buying a coat with that timeless style and quality that will last you years. Only one problem - it's prettttyyy expensive - especially for us students!

Saying that, I think this look is one that can work better for those who are older - now, I don't mean 70 year old women trudging around in cape coats or leather pants -"No Nan, just no" - but those who are already moving up the career ladder and need that sophisticated edge - we all need to impress our bosses right? And fashion is actually a great way in doing that.

This style focuses on one item at a time - everything else about the outfit has to be simplistic, plain, almost like a canvas, for this particular item - whether this is a printed tunic, a over sized jumper, or a straight lined coat. Layering, large accessories or more than one stand-out print is a no-no.

Hmmm, this sounds a bit boring right? No big accessories or more than one interesting item? Pfft.

But! Do not fret if you're one those quirky, mix 'n' match people - basics can still look interesting, especially if the stand-out item is something like a knitted jumper, a distressed cargo jacket, or even better a bit leather or leopard. Blacks, creams and brown are perfect for this look, and you can also add a splash of colour, like red or purple.

Just keep it, well, basic...

If you like this look, check out Zara's November collection. It's pretty lush.

x  




Some items from Zara's November collection - to see the rest, visit the website!







(No copyright Intended, I do not own this image)

Thursday 18 November 2010

'Brush With Fashion' - Spring Make Up Launch

Apologies for not posting for a while, things have been pretty hectic lately, what school work, Uni applications, and all sorts of drama.

But anyway.

Yesterday evening I was lucky enough to have a invitation - courtesy of my brother-in-law - to go and see London College of Fashion and the Body Shop launch their new make up range, a project that they have worked on together.

So I'm here to give you the lowdown...

London itself was busier than ever, especially down Oxford Street and Bond Street where the college was - people always seem to be in some kind of rush in London, even when they aren't in the Underground. The Christmas lights were already up and shining - Rihanna turned them on a week or so ago - and so the festive atmosphere was all around...i.e mad shoppers, freezing cold weather and just thousands of people. The transport itself was crazy - the central line was severely delayed due a suicide earlier that morning, and then the entrance into Oxford Circus was shut off because someone had collapsed. Happy Holidays Everyone...


ANYWAY, enough of my rambling, I'm starting to sound like my Dad.

Once I had arrived, and survived the mayhem, I waited for the show to start.

Now, so the Body Shop are famous, and popular for their organic, natural and non-cruelty-to-animals philosophy, and this was said to be one of the reasons why London College of Fashion wanted to collaborate with them; in fact, the winning artwork creator Katarina Voloder said, "I have always admired The Body Shop ethical, sustainable and cruetly-free approach to make up, so it's particulary exciting that my work is part of this innovative, new and on-trend collection".

The room was packed - ok, fairly full - of press and journalists down the sides of the catwalk, whilst everyone else was situated above, on the seats - rather like a mini-theatre. This experience in itself was quite daunting - I mean I didn't exactly have anything to back myself up with. In fact, as I entered, this happened:

"Hi, so where are you from?"
(Elle? No. Vogue? No. The Times? No. Horse and Hounds? Not even that).
"Um......."

I ended up having to awkwardly explain that I was here because of my brother-in-law. To which the woman behind the desk, understandably, dismissed me like I had just stated that I was a toilet cleaner.

The show itself was amazing; the clothes worn by the models - designs by William Tempest and Jena Theo - reflected the new make up range brilliantly; nudes, metallic silvers, faded greys and bursts of oranges and pinks. The colour palate reflected their organic and natural branding, and was perfect for people who like to have that natural-look, and not end up looking tangoed. Surprisingly, they also included older aged models, which I think was refreshing, and a great way of trying to defy the conventions of the fashion industry and the models that they generically use.

As I wasn't a professional journalist, I was unable to go backstage and see all that wonderfullness, but I DID get a lovely goody bag full of the latest range, ranging from lip gloss, to face base  - which isn't even on shelves yet! Overall though, the show was great to watch, and the make up itself is fabulous.
Inside my goody bag!
- Illuminating Face Base - £14.00
- Limited Collection For Eyes - £18.00
- Tailored Cheek Tint - £8.50
-  Hi -Shine Lip Treatment - £9.50
- Re- useable Bag- £2.00
(extras - face mist, blusher brush, eye shadow
brush and removal wipes!)

The only thing I would have liked to see more would have been larger models maybe - none of this size zero stuff- but this risk may have been one to large to take; after all, its a fact that skinnier models are more effective in promotion and sales.

All in all however, the new range was still pretty fab, and will be hitting the shelves in January - watch this space!

x

Saturday 13 November 2010

Oh So Vintage...

What with all this vintage and WW2 orientated fashion going on (of which I witnessed buckets of shopping today), I thought I'd share with you some of my favourite vintage clips.


(I'll admit that I saw some of these in my Media lesson, but this doesn't lessen my love for it!)


I'm a rather nostalgic person and I love everything that's got that old-time touch. And trust me, these three clips are far more entertaining - and talented! - than anything you've seen on TV today, including the X Factor. Even better than Wagner's  Matt's singing...


Enjoy!


x

The Nicholas Brothers in Stormy Weather (1943)


Shirley Temple and Bill "Bojangles" Robinson in the The Little Colonel (1935)


(This last one was shown to me by my friend Jade*..it's pretty incredible if you ask me!)
From the film "Hellzapoppin"(1941) - be patient, the first half is music!


*Follow Jade on www.mapofmypast.blogspot.com! x

The Ugly Side of Fashion...

So my wardrobe needed some desperate TLC. Especially with writing this blog - and going to a exclusive fashion show next week eek! - I needed a major shopping trip, and fast.

Now, my ultimate favourite store is Zara - the new collection is greeatt, and plus they have some great items that won't break the bank. Ish. (Anyway, I managed to get some fabulous black pixie boots, a mustard-blazer-like cardigan, and a army-green styled jumper- LUSH).

With all this spending in Zara - after around 4 items or more you can start to feel the purse strings tugging! - I decided to make myself feel a bit better and head down to good'ol Primark.

Primark is crazy at the moment - I swear there was about 50,000 people in there and the queue went back at least 10 miles. I also love the pushing and the snatching - "I got the last 35p pair of boots bitch!", and that lovely warm, claustrophobic and sticky atmosphere that's constantly in there.

Not that I don't like a bargain. Or cheap prices - I mean, I'm (hopefully!) going to be a Uni student next year, so Primark will be my future home - but, it got me thinking.  I bought a pair of basic black plimsolls as mine were breaking apart, and how much were they? A staggering £2. Yes, you read that correctly. Cheaper than a coffee from Starbucks and not far off a Tesco's sandwich.

I was waiting in the queue, feeling rather like cattle as I waited for my turn to pay, when my mind wandered off. The materials alone to make that shoe must need at least half of the price to pay for it, and obviously Primark itself would take a large quantity. So what does the person who made it actually get? 5p? If that? The thought quite frankly is unacceptable. Low pay like that is obviously illegal in the UK, but places like India, China and Philippines aren't lucky enough to have this law.

What would have ended this blog nicely would be me to say that I put the shoes back on the shelf and walked out with my head high. But I didn't - realistically, how many of us would have? The fact is, we can't afford expensive clothes either, and high-end fashion is constantly under scrutiny for it's huge prices.

I think what the message here really is simply to at least think about what we're buying. A tiny blog post like mine, or even a channel 4 documentary on Primark (this was on a couple of years ago) most likely won't make a difference, so the least we could do is stop and think.

Maybe charity shops instead?
x

Thursday 11 November 2010

11th hour, 11th day, 11th month.

Two minutes silence.

Two minutes silence for millions and millions of people who died for us, and for things we now take for granted.

I just wanted to write a post for the families affected by war, the innocent who died in tragedy, but most importantly, to the soldiers who fought for us, and continue too - whether that was WW1, WW2 or now.

We owe you everything.

Thank You.

x

"In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place, and in the sky,
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard among the guns below."
  
                                                                             - Lieut.-Col John Mcrae.




Reowwww...

Leopard print.

What's the first thing that comes into your mind? Maybe a dress, or a bag. Or even a coat? Right now, I'm picturing a coat, but this image is only a result of the upcoming trend - if you had mentioned leopard print to me this summer I would have pictured some eccentric - and kinda tacky- 80's style fabric.

Of course, the word tacky doesn't apply in 2010 - this f/w leopard print is sophisticated, elegant and quirky at the same time. It's once again another style that can me perfectly miss-matched with any of the upcoming looks; whether its a leopard bag with a vintage dress, or a faded leopard print with some pale chinos.

However, this new look is something that should be done in small doses only - never more that two items should be leopard at the same time (unless it's on the catwalk of course). Keep it simple with one leopard item that stands out in a reserved outfit - plain black velvet dress? Pair it with some leopard heels.

Leopard is big on coats right now too - especially fur coats (fake, of course, none of this real stuff), but make sure it isn't paired with a loud outfit- remember, less is more.  If you're brave enough, mixing leopard with other prints can be really effective too - but make sure you don't end up looking like a Halloween outfit!

Personally, I'd never been that keen on leopard print, especially on fur coats, but this new elegant approach is a great twist on an old classic; this years print is much more Audrey Hepburn than Scary Spice. Divvinnee.


 x

(no copyright intended, I do not own these images)

Tuesday 9 November 2010

Lets fly away...lets fly, lets fly, lets fly...

Now, I'll admit, that although I was aware of this upcoming trend - what with the whole Amelia Earhart look going on - it was a conversation with one of my friends that reminded me of this latest "in" item.

"So you know how my Uncle has a glider?" (now, just to let you know, my friend isn't some ultra-rich mega star who had dozens of planes, its just her Uncle reallyyy likes to fly).
"Yeah.."
"Well, I might get his hat!"
"His hat?..."
"Yeah, like the flying one? And you can get goggles too!"
"OH! The Amelia Earhart look?"
"Exactly".

So, it was this conversation that lead me to realise just how serious the new aviator look is. It's odd to think that Amelia Earhart herself was alive way back during the 1930s, and even then she wasn't considered a fashion icon at the time at all - her clothes were for practicality.

Not that I'm complaining; I love the aviator jackets, paired with army-styled chinos and boots. The development of this new style was inevitable really, if you think about it - first was the 1920s/30s chic vintage with antique jewellery and high-necked blouses, then came the WW2 influenced brogues and high-waisted skirts, in which the post-war origins developed into the military/army styling, and then finally hit the only aspect of that era that hadn't been touched - the WW2 jet setter.

The good thing with this look, and all of the styles dominating this f/w, is that, since the origins all circle around the similar era, they can easily be combined together - velvet skirts with pixie boots, army trousers and aviator jackets. They even work with the modern twist - ripped denim, baggy tees, tailored blazers, and a pair of dark (and thick)jeggings. Faabbbbbbb.

x

(Aviator Jacket - Burberry)

(Rihanna looks stylish is a rather furry trapper hat)












 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(no copyright intended, I do not own these images)

Saturday 6 November 2010

Velvet; a hint of vintage and this years must-have...


So, I was flicking through my large pile of fashion magazines, as you do, and simultaneously browsing the H&M website - which have some greeatt new f/w items that won't break the bank btw. (They also have this amazing gadget called "fashion studio" in which you can try all the latest clothes on a virtual model, and see how it looks! I spent two hours doing this yesterday. Productive, I know).

Anyway. It was this browsing that let me come across one of the latest trends, but one that even most of the quirkiest girls at my school haven't really worn. It is, of course, velvet, which is becoming more and more this winter's "It" fabric.This reawakened style is definitely in keeping with the upcoming christmasy feel, with the dominating colours of deep red, plum, purple and black.

As velvet was popular during the 1920s, this new trend seems to have stemmed from the vintage-chic that's been significant in fashion in the last couple of years, and it slips in perfectly next to those brogues, and can even be paired cleverly with some chinos.

No longer is it the LBD, its now the LBVD - ("Little Black Velvet Dress") that's a must-have for your wardrobe, and if you want to glide through this years winter in effortless, and timeless, style.

x
(As seen on the Catwalk)
(Diane Kruger braves a stylish velvet jumpsuit)




























               (No copyright intended, I do not own these images)

Thursday 4 November 2010

College Fashion - Fingers Crossed!

So, I've just spent the last two hours creating my application to become College Fashion's latest fashion journalist!

I really hope that I get this - not only will this look fab on my CV, but also, what an amazing experience this would be!!

I'd get to write about the latest trends, go to fashions shows, and try out products that aren't even on shelves yet. I do really want to get into the fashion industry - a hard thing, I know-  and this could be the first step!

Watch this space - and wish me luck!

x

Wednesday 3 November 2010

University - money, money and MORE money...

(I've been eating left over Halloween sweets for the last three days and I'm starting to feel slightly ill. I only got one trick-a-treater this year, and so now I'm left with a massive box of sweets).

Anyway, thats not what I wanted to blog about today. Infact, I don't really have that much TO blog amount-  average week, average day (albeit with drops of drama here and there).

One thing that has been on my mind lately is University. I was watching the news earlier this evening, and it stated that University tuition fees can rise up to £6,000 in 2012, and that Universities can even raise it up to £9,000.

It's ridiculous. How much do students up in Scotland pay for tuition fees? Oh, wait, thats it - THEY DON'T. There's so much pressure on teenagers today - forget the stereotyping of being lazy, eating junk food and gettting wasted (okk, some of that is true, but still). Not only is University now SO competitive with thousands of students applying for nowhere near enough places, but now we get to graduate in thousands and thousands of pounds in debt? Brilliant.

Things like accomodation are now so much more than they used to be (one room, with a bed, desk and basin is around £95 a week - don't even mention an en-suite), and what with the ecomonic status, and lack of jobs, it's not like us students can just skip Uni all together - now, a degree is ESSENTIAL to getting a job, if you're lucky.
I heard a couple of months ago that more and more graduate students go into unpaid internships, unpaid work experience, or even stay on for a post-grad degree due to the lack of jobs out there - and this is after we've worked our socks off for 3 years and got about £25,000 worth of debt. YAY.

I also remember last year the media stated that exams were getting "easier" - now that's a funny story. An article in "Red" magazine spoke about this, talking about an 30-something-year-old woman who tried out an A Level English Lit exam, "...the reading list had barely changed from my day....far worse was the coursework - dissertation with footnotes and self-justification" on Ian McEwan's Atonement? Phew! Don't let anyone tell you A Levels have dumbed down. They haven't".

I'm sorry for the rant-  just wanted to get across a student POV on the recent news. And show that us teenagers don't hang around corners with our hoods up, smoking a fag - nope, we're all actually studying our butts off. Honest.


x

Sunday 31 October 2010

Fashion - This Year's Fall/Winter Collection

Avoiding Homework - check.
Facebook Being Boring - check.
Nothing on TV-  check.

So what is there now? In this, dull, tedious Sunday afternoon?

That's right.

FASHION.

I am loving this Fall/Winter collection at the moment with its hint of vintage, masculinity and that hybrid of tailoring and miss-match. The colours this season are fab too; shades of camel, dark green and muddy brown. And of course, you'd be lost without a pair of army boots, loafers or brogues this winter - this new style in particular is what I love; those drops of 1930s male fashion now reinvented 70 years later to the 'modern woman'. Lovely jubbly.

Denim has been reawakened this year, from early this spring, to now in f/w. This resurrection reminds me of some of the jackets I used to wear growing up in the 90s - and I gotta be honest, they weren't that great. The modern take on denim is muchhh better - the tailored structure jeans with edgy blazers or loose jumpers, to ripped skirts and baggy tees.

Aviator Jackets - or how I dubbed it, the "Amelia Earhart" look. (I mentioned this to my mum a week ago, to which she replied, "Amelia who? Is that a new designer?" Honestly). It's true though - dress the jacket with a pair chinos, furry pixie boots and a pair of pre WW2 flying goggles, and you'd look just like her.


Looking back at last year’s f/w collection - I visited Clothes Show Live in Birmingham with my school, and I have some pretty cool photos - the leap is quite big. Last year it seemed to be long cardigans and massive woolly scarves, and now it's all about men's shoes and army jackets. (If I showed you a pair of army-boot-turned-heels last year, you would definitely have gone, "Woah, that's weeiirrddd").


So, as it were, I was avoiding work as usual, and doing some online clothes-shopping (or wishing more like). With my budget, Topshop is already a push - but where did I end up looking? Jimmy Choo, Roberto Cavilli and Kurt Geiger. Good start. I even went on the Hermès website, and when I clicked on "online boutique", the page refused to load - it was like it could SENSE my empty pockets. (Probably for the best, I found a bracelet on there awhile ago at the same price as a brand new car). And it was this rather fantasy-like shopping that lead me to this wonderful pair of shoes and clutch! (below)

 
Now, I don't usually go for leopard (which is so in, all of a sudden), but these paired with a classic LBD, and a Jimmy Choo clutch - how good would that look?
Pretty finneeee I think.

(Anyone want to buy them for me?)

x

 Why it's Jimmy Choo of course! (£275)


Isn't it pretty? (Kurt Geiger - £70)


 

   
 

  



 



 
(No copyright intended! I do not own any of these images).