Fashion Followed

To another time

2010-03-10T05:14:00.000-08:00

Photos: Unknown & Martin Vallin
found via: life in lomo

Brightly does it

2010-03-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

Flicking through interior blogs and online magazines for some colour-popping inspiration, I came across an issue of Elle Decor from January 2009 featuring Matthew Williamson's apartment. What else can be expected from the former creative director of the always colourful and bold Pucci.

Runway Faces

2010-03-04T12:41:00.000-08:00

Catwalk observations generally surround the draping creations of designers sported down the runways of the world. Without speaking for others, my attention rarely falls onto the detail designers have adorned their models with other than their clothing. Enter make-up - something us window shoppers can actually emulate.

Does any one know where I can find this nail polish shade?

photos via TFS

The sound of church bells

2010-03-03T04:05:00.000-08:00

I came across these beautiful Jeremy Scott fashion week photos via burntbutter (great blog to check out). The collection boasted body con, dog-tagged biker jackets and beautiful colours resembling cathedral windows.

Scott's after party in New York saw cross dressers, costumes and dangling beaded glasses that tug on my 'I want to be there!' strings... To next year in New York...

photos via burntbutter, refinery29

Monochrome Lusting

2010-02-24T17:19:00.000-08:00

I've fallen quite in love with Gareth Pugh's two-tone wedges. Granted, I fall for most wedged heals, but this time its different...

photos via: lookbook, Blacklist

Spike my crown

2010-02-23T16:43:00.000-08:00

The headband entered our radar as a boho accessory introduced by the likes of Nicole Richie and Mischa Barton. The headband has evolved past this as most do when they grow up, and has adopted a more edgy stance that the catwalks demand. What better way to do so than by covering itself with the undying craze: spikes.

photos via: Vogue blog, The MidWasteland

Comfortable Comfort

2010-02-23T16:34:00.000-08:00

Stolen from Vogue's blog, I am in love with US Marie Claire style and accessories director Taylor Tomasi's multi-buckle boots and trousers that I still can't quite work out. Perhaps black shorts over tracksuit bottoms would do the trick? Any attempt to dress in comfort.

2010-02-20T06:51:00.000-08:00

Can any beauty bloggers out there think what shade this could be?

Bloted Footwear

2010-02-20T06:47:00.000-08:00

Clogs seem to be taunting me with every magazine turn I have made in the last few months as they are pictured on almost every page waiting for me to give in to them. When making their first appearance on the Chanel summer catwalks, I figured there could be no way this trend would filter down to the high street, best keep them in the barn.

Yet, the power of super-brands stand laughing as we the trend followers give in. Like a backpack, I am pretty hesitant towards this wooden shoe, yet in standard high-street manner, clogs have been transformed in various ways, and I am ashamed to say I have been sucked in...

I have a feeling the Kurt Geiger Hadassah's will soon be covering my feet

From Left: Kurt Geiger Jola, Kurt Geiger Hadassah, Topshop Lottie

Shadows

2010-02-20T06:33:00.000-08:00

I've completely fallen for Shawn Brackbill's photography. I came across his work via Susie Bubble's blog where he photographed her in her wonderfully whimsical way, directing me onto his website, and into his wonderful world of shaddows, blurrs and light. The photographs are from his New York Fashion Week collection...

Lace, sheer and underwear

2010-02-17T14:18:00.000-08:00

photos via: above chaos, knightcat,

Collections

2010-02-16T09:25:00.000-08:00

Headscarves and Sunglasses

2010-02-16T08:27:00.000-08:00

Vogue Paris Feb 2010

I'm slightly drooling over the leggings!

Playful Fun

2010-02-16T08:08:00.000-08:00

Very long over-waited, Alexa Chung has finally crossed over into the realm of designing. Given that her style has been admired and replicated for so many years, it's quite surprising this hasn't occurred sooner. Nonetheless, Chung has finally graced us all with the ability to dress with her supervision as she teamed with Madewell to create a collection. Quoted as casual, fun and playful, this collection is bursting with frills, shorts, velvets and Chung's all-time favourite material: denim.

2010-02-12T18:12:00.001-08:00

To the man who personifies all that is British in fashion.

Collections

2010-02-11T06:01:00.000-08:00

I find myself scrolling around Tumblr just looking at images that sprawl up emotions, inspirations etc. Quite uncanny the way a photograph can actually pick at you. Given, a photograph of my own face will usually lead to the same "Ugh" sound, but of others they can be quite refreshing... These photos are quite synonymous with my "I want that" result, especially long, plaited, Alexander Wang hair!

Take a walk outside

2010-02-11T05:46:00.000-08:00

I'm absolutely infatuated with this idea of "underwear as outerwear". I know it's been quite a few months since this trend debuted on the catwalks but it's finally entered the public domain with the ever-exposed celebrity stalkings. My infatuation does not stem from wanting to see people in their underwear - before I am misunderstood, rather about this entirely taboo area that was always kept behind closed doors. It's a whole new frilly, sheer world out there!
For one, I can't stop eyeing this "The Lake and Stars" romper... Am I now able to wear this outside my safety zone of the front door?

fashionflw

2010-02-09T09:41:00.000-08:00

I have great news wonderful readers: A brand spanking new iPhone App for a more organised way to read these posts on the go :-) and is nice and FREE... (wonderful word). Just type fashionflw into the app store

I hope you enjoy!

Return to the sun?

2010-02-08T10:51:00.000-08:00

Cruising around the shops today all bustling with new spring/summer trends of neutrals, florals, peaches and shorter lengths made me feel quite desolate when I walked out to trickles of rain, as if the stores are just tormenting me to keep my umbrella in tact and just stare at imagery of sunshine. After coming across this beautiful sunshine filled picture by Luxogram, which has actually been shot using Ektar film, remember film? I'm finding myself daydreaming about tearing up my dissertation notes and flying far far away to a warmer land... Oh dreams...

Fringe

2010-02-08T10:26:00.000-08:00

Loving the fringe! via: thefashionsmoke

An arm and a leg

2010-02-08T10:25:00.000-08:00

After a grueling week of cutting and sticking for a uni project, I'm finding myself moulding into my bed, completely at my blankets whim, hence my lack of posting... apologies!
Whilst in my solemn state, I've come across this amazing DIY tutorial that I must share! At first glance i just thought great trousers, without realizing they are actually sweater sleeves sewn onto cycling shorts...
photos via: behindtheseams

To watch them move

2010-02-02T15:56:00.000-08:00

Video look books and designer's "look book movies" have recently become more and more popular as a way of transmitting a message and an experience behind a collection, I'm pretty sure the first video of this nature I watched was YSL's last year starring his son portraying tearful, young love. Parisian designer Vanessa Bruno in a far more uplifting manner, has made a gorgeous video for her Spring/Summer 2010 collection showing montages of dancing, laughing, rolling down sand hills, playing with bed sheets and seducing piano players, all the while in gorgeous lace, knits and lingerie.

Découvrez “ Le bel été ” avec Lou Doillon et Gonzales.
Discover the film “ Le bel été ” with Lou Doillon and Gonzales.
http://www.vanessabruno.com

What's the verdict on backpacks?

2010-02-02T09:05:00.000-08:00

A while ago I blogged about this Chanel backpack and just stumbled across this picture and the subject has pounced into my thoughts again... Could we erase the schoolgirl connotations of the backpack if it is leather, studded or branded?

I know these have nothing to do with my backpack pondering but wanted to share them...

Looking afar

2010-02-01T18:59:00.000-08:00

High waisted leggings: American Apparel, vest and necklace: Primark, wedges: Topshop

Collections

2010-01-28T15:35:00.000-08:00

photos via: cocorosa, garancedore, popcultureafternoon, fashiontoast, thestylishwanderer, taghrid, dirtylittlestylewhore, thecobrasnake, sincerelyjules, vinacoke

Lara Stone

2010-01-27T13:15:00.000-08:00

A little introduction to the new face of Louis Vuitton... Madonna has passed the torch onto the blonde, fresh faced, Lara Stone in all her bed-haired glory

Red Sole

2010-01-26T12:53:00.000-08:00

Comments from my studded bracelet post showed a certain theme - OMG AMAZING SHOES. So after searching high and low for these leopard/lace peep toes, they have announced themselves. Shocker of the year, amazing shoes are by surprise surprise, Christian Louboutin, named Bridget, available at Barneys, NY

For the Awwww Factor

2010-01-26T12:36:00.001-08:00

photo via: pearlsandlacedresses

Can I look like you?

2010-01-26T11:50:00.000-08:00

Photos via facehunter

Acne Wedges by dzingher featuring Acne boots

Items in this set:
Petite Maxi Dress, $90
Alexander Mcqueen Waterfall Hooded Cardigan, 520 GBP
Grey Stud Mix Leather Biker, 120 GBP
Acne High Wedge Lace Up Shoes, 400 GBP
ATACOMA PLATFORM BOOTIES, 385 GBP

How she shines

2010-01-24T12:11:00.000-08:00

I came across this image today and fell right into the studded hands of a marketer as I devoured Google in the search for studded bracelets that bare any resemblance to this image

Narrowed it down to:

Urban Outfitters £9.99, Bloomingdales: $30, ASOS: £8, Kenneth Jay Lane: £98, Burberry: £395

Tights and Rings

2010-01-23T17:52:00.000-08:00

Tights: Topshop, body: Miss Selfridge, lace cardigan: Zara, bag: vintage

Blue Tones

2010-01-22T08:31:00.000-08:00

Last Summer brought about subtle adaptions of denim, mostly noted by the baggy, denim shit. Denim was ever so slightly coming alive it forms other than its life-long entrapment covering our legs. Denim jackets started to swarm the streets with denim waistcoats catching on. Well, the denim plight had been officially victorious as numerous catwalks paraded denim in many shapes and forms.

My absolute favourite of all pieces are the Cloe jeans with light denim knee patches, that H&M has kindly made a copy of...

photo via: allaboutit

Denim brogues, Topshop

Laces/Chain

2010-01-20T15:30:00.000-08:00

I Need

2010-01-19T14:53:00.000-08:00

Jeffrey Campbell x Emily L.

Confuzzled!

2010-01-19T14:45:00.000-08:00

Designer collaborations became common practice in 2009 with too many to list. Jimmy Choo's collection for H&M was just one of the many that made moshes of people queuing outside stores, waiting for doors to open followed by a flurry of hair grabbing and garment snatching. Jimmy Choo declared to further encourage such behaviour with a new collaboration, this time I would say on a bit more random note, but still, quite intriguing. The notorious shoe designer has announced to collaborate with UGG Australia. With a relatively heftier price tags, the collaboration will consist of five different styles in a range of colours priced between £495 - £695. The style of the shoes is yet to be announced, will they be fluffy furry stilettos? Only time will tell....

Kind of beauty meets sasquatch?

Colour my City

2010-01-17T15:16:00.000-08:00

Country Cabin. Two little words that encapsulate all that busy cities make us crave: peace, quiet, warmth, cozy fires. No doubt bringing cabin-esque interior to the city will allow for a middle ground. The Daily Mail along with the help of photographer Adrain Brisco show how the classic features of country living can be given modern twist, with a pop of colour, to sit comfortably alongside city-living furniture.

Inevitably, this made me search for more Brisco photography where it becomes evident that playing with colours is a coherent theme in his work

Different Shades

2010-01-17T14:58:00.000-08:00

fur coat: Vintage - Camden

dress: thrifted

boots: Belstaff

Backstage Following

2010-01-15T15:59:00.000-08:00

Those of you wonderful people who have been readers of my world of words would know my love for backstage catwalk photos over your standard runway photos. Even when the shots are from previous seasons I am firm believer that the clothing comes back to life when they are shot backstage on models that are full on life or interacting with the clothing themselves. When this happens with clothing that I loved on the catwalk themselves, my excitement factor for the shots rises up a notch.
These shots from Gareth Pugh's S/S 2010 ticked every metaphorical box. I love that the girl in black is awkwardly touching her hair. She completely encapsulates the contrast between this gothic piece and the more girly pink dresses.

2010-01-15T08:10:00.000-08:00

The vintage inspired February covers of magazines gives an elegant and pastel outlook on the Spring season that is yet to come.

Start to imagine the falling leaves and the greens and oranges that will soon take over the landscape. Whilst on this vintage theme of Spring I find myself yearning for more vintage yet modern imagery to inspire me away from my still too near and vivid memories of snow. This set from polyvore was just what I needed to inspire, especially because of the gorgeous Lanvin ballet shoes!

by aly cat.

Items in this set:
D&G sundress
Burberry Prorsum Fine cashmere cardigan, $995
Lanvin Patent leather ballerina flats, $515
Lanvin Patent leather ballerina flats, $515
35cm Hermes Etoupe Togo Birkin

Spike My Classics

2010-01-14T12:51:00.000-08:00

The most adored Burberry trench has gotten a rocker make-over. It seems after Scott Schuman's "The Art of The Trench" exploration, the trench has become more coveted than ever. Following suit, Christopher Bailey has given the classic outerwear a good studding for the limited edition range for Parisian boutique Colette.

Mattify

2010-01-13T11:06:00.000-08:00

Following my nail polish rant I had a strange cruise around nail polish websites to see what to add to my collection and came across Essie Matte polish and got pretty excited. This polish takes any shimmery/shiny polish and gives it a completely matte appearance. Rubbish explanation, - this is one of those times where a picture is worth a thousand words..
photos via: whatkatiedidherpolish

RemeberRememberRemember

2010-01-13T10:58:00.000-08:00

Now we know that the impact of street style fashion blogs and websites have become the latest fashion inferno with their relevance to designer's collection ever increasing. Now to unveil street style's new territory... card games???? Not having seen this first-hand I will not make any judgements as of yet, just a load of question marks.

Greener Droplets

2010-01-13T10:50:00.000-08:00

Being quite an insane nail polish fanatic, I undoubtedly get bored pretty quickly by the dark browns and reds, so when an unexpected colour draws my attention, it must be attempted.

The latest experiment was along the lines of Chanel's Jade but with a more pastel undertone. Enter: Essie Mint Candy Apple. The shade was introduced for their Autumn/Winter 09 range but me thinks such a vibrant tone deserves some sunshine and will defiantly make an appearance during the summer... Remember sun? That vague, distant memory...

NeverLeave

2010-01-13T10:37:00.000-08:00

The man who took animals to a new platform (pun intended) we hadn't seen before is back. Yes, it's Ashish who brought the zebra and leopard platforms that stirred the blogosphere faster than most. Ashish integrates into the wider category of Topshop's clothing with clothing adorned with spikes.

** Note: spikes are kicking their younger siblings - the studs, away from the limelight, with Topshop's designer collaborations aiding their way.

These spiked beauties are Louise Goldin's first footwear endeavor set to arrive in February.

2010-01-10T10:16:00.001-08:00

Dotty

2010-01-08T13:25:00.000-08:00

HearMeSwear

2010-01-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

With expected shameful nods in agreement, it's pretty likely that quite a few of us have slacked at the gym 8 days after vowing to go every day as a **new years resolution**
Such hassle goes along with it, and the usual girl envy when I see a sweat-less beauty on the running machine next to me clearly wearing make up, effortlessly panting with me next to her... let's say not as pleasant a sight as her.
Then follows my weight lifting portion of the session where men to my right are lifting 70kg and I struggle with my 15's, all the while bitching about my hair clip digging into the back of my head. Yes, hairbands sound like the clever substitute but I'm not a fan of the pulling of my hair. And then, hey presto, came along a clever little gizmo called Linziclip with its handy flat surface letting me lie down on the map for my sit ups without me swearing every time my weight shifts up my body.
Photos are an obvious no no at the gym so for a more animated picture of the clip:

Sadly, a hair clip cannot motivate gym-going.

Hide and Seek - Outfit inspirations

2010-01-08T12:15:00.000-08:00

pics via dirtylittlestylehore

Keeping Me Snug

2010-01-07T03:30:00.000-08:00

Fur collar: H&M, fingerless gloves: Accessorize, blazer: Miss Selfridge, hoodie: boyfriend's, top: Topshop, leather trousers: H&M, brogues: River Island

Whiter Days

2010-01-06T05:34:00.000-08:00

Hysteria always seems to come hand in hand with the white blankets that form outside our widows. Why not take a short pause, and enjoy its beauty? Perhaps enjoy it through a lens - proven to be a great exam revision distraction today

Egyptian Cotton Snoozes

2010-01-06T02:28:00.000-08:00

The word fashion itself holds numerous connotations and definitions, with each person attaching their own definition to the word. There is no doubt that when breaking down the term fashion with models strutting down the runway as champagne drinking, stiletto healed women follow their steps with turns of their heads , fashion brings with it luxurious discipline. Giorgio Armani no stranger to this world has expanded his reach into this world of luxury and moved into the largest tower in the world. Yes, Armani has taken on the role of hospitality and has decorated the interiors of Dubai's Burj Tower hotel, the first of Armani's venture in this field.
Sadly no interior images as of yet but if Armani's interior range is any indication of the hotel's decor, expect dark wood interspersed with relaxing tones of browns and creams.

Chanel green, silver rings

2010-01-04T12:56:00.000-08:00

pics via: fuckyeahfashion

WalkOnBy

2010-01-04T12:34:00.000-08:00

Always welcoming high priced imitations that do not cross over into the "fake" pile, I was immediately drawn to these River Island croc brogues resembling H&M/Jimmy Choo's wonders that almost made my purse zip fly open at their obviously limited lifespan.
Given the H&M brogues show off colour that my Island's don't, but for a quarter of the price their clear perishability no longer stood in the way between myself and the till.

ShoulderPlaying

2009-12-24T13:56:00.000-08:00

My standard walk from uni to town becomes second nature, turn right at the yellow building, boring old betting shop in front, pass the dirty kebab shop.. Good old Manchester. And so, as you can imagine, a new store that emerges through the dust inevitably brings some excitement to my journey, be a new retail store I have not heard of yet... well, baby in a candy store best explains it.
Picture painted, imagine the joy I felt when stumbling across a brand spanking new, extra large vintage store on route amusingly named COW, ** for any Manchester residents this was a few months ago it just took me a while to wear my purchase.
This dress's faux leather decorated shoulders were screaming my name, I felt it only fair to take them home and nurture them. any excuse for a long sleeved dress...

dress - COW, leggings and heals - Topshop, boots - M&S, belt - Primark

Adorn me with jewels

2009-12-23T13:38:00.000-08:00

Fashiontography

2009-12-23T13:27:00.000-08:00

SRC: Corinne Stoll, Piczine blog

Decorative Dressings

2009-12-22T11:27:00.000-08:00

I'm currently in the process of moving rooms and what started out as being a fun task to distract my studies - bad, bad - has turned into a googling obsession finding more and more features to please my eyes. Toughest challenge yet: wallpaper. Too much choice really does leave one baffled... I've just come across Dame V.Westwood's wallpaper collection over at Liberty's and although my pocket wont allow for it, it can't harm to flick through.

I quickly became mesmerized by the thought of lining my wardrobes with the ruched tartan print. possibly play a little game of confusing wardrobe onlookers: is it wallpaper? is it clothing?
Sad little game sure to keep me amused...

Layers and Embellishments

2009-12-21T12:10:00.000-08:00

Based in Buenos Aries, Trosman unveiled to the world her first collection in 2002. Full of layers and luxurious fabrics, your eyes can't help but inspect each crevice of her garments.
The colours infused in her collections confirm the designer's tropical heritage whilst their construction proves her artistic and superb design skills.

WhatTheFutureBrings

2009-12-21T11:25:00.000-08:00

The whirlwind of technological advances that have come to define the 21st century makes us embrace new developments and sadly say goodbye to the old and outdated inventions of technologies past. The VHS, found a bigger brother in the DVD, soon to be replaced by Blu-Ray. Such improvements are welcomed for their superiority and comfort. Yet, when those that are dear and loved banish from the mass-market with, in my mind, no logical replacement, I am left mourning.

Those over at helpless-romantic have taken on this grief with a tribute to the polaroid camera.

We'll miss you!x

Whilst on this camera rant, thought I'd slip this illustration in that i found via: Floweret

Let it Snow

2009-12-21T10:40:00.000-08:00

There is no denying the beauty that snow brings to our darkened city, brightly highlighting every leaf featured outside. Yet as with most things that bring us joy (cynical self enters) there is a downside to the weather mainly the freezing temperatures and the hazardous roads... my poor little car wouldn't even make it up the road.
The more it become obvious that our Christmas will be white, the more it seems we're regressing back some thousands of years in evolution towards our animalistic pre-human selves (that is of course only if you believe in evolution) as more of us wrap up in fur - faux or real, myself included. A serious fur obsession as kicked in with my fur coat, collar, hat... where will this fur madness take me next?
SRC dirtylittlestylewhore
Tights, skirt and shoes - Topshop, body - Miss Selfridge, fur coat - vintage,

Humorous Gold

2009-12-04T17:26:00.000-08:00

Magazine pages are now adorned with numerous Christmas guides, Secret Santa presents, Christmas party dresses and accessories, hell we can even rent generous celeb clothes from those clever minds at Topshop. Being bombarded with purchases I should be making, one is undoubtedly going to lose enthusiasm for it all. So when i came across this Kate Spade gift bow necklace, I remembered all that is festive, the joys of presents and the happiness I should actually be feeling when spending all my money this month.

Pen Pals

2009-12-02T11:00:00.000-08:00

Ever thought the outline of our monarchy's head has become a tad monotonous? We see them on coins, notes, stamps making the top right corner of my envelope lacking any kind of exciement that I should be feeling when I recieve a birthday/Christmas card or invitation. Alber Elbaz has sorted the French out with Lanvin's limited edition stamps. Elbaz has created two colourful and animated designs to celebrate the brand's 120 year anniversary making French mail that bit more interesting. Perhaps I should befriend a Parisian...

Pop Ya Collar

2009-12-01T15:30:00.000-08:00

Once in a while, well more like a couple of days, a new obsession kicks in where I must find a long tee, heart pattern tights, leather bracelet etc. My craving for this week is for a fur collar. Last month saw me tuck into the back of my closet to find that old fur jacket that had been gathering dust due to my lack of fur adoration and uncover my staple item right now. It seems only natural that this new found love will spread beyond a jacket. And so for my next purchase: the fur collar
(photos via satorialist, shinylittlethings, stockholmstreetstyle)

Horses and Swings

2009-12-01T15:23:00.000-08:00

Always aiming for the "different factor", Sonia Rykiel's underwear for H&M animated its Parisian runway by models riding giant horses, swinging luxury swings and climbing spot-lit mountains all on their way to the setting of all settings that personifies luxury, lingerie and romance: the Eifel Tower

I <3 Tights

2009-12-01T14:36:00.000-08:00

This is Sparta!

2009-11-23T08:46:00.000-08:00

For those who havent seen 300 I accept that I wont be receiving a soft chuckle for my post title but for those who have, my reference here relates to Acne's S/S 2010 collaboration with designer Husam El Odah with a slight warrior feel.
The collection proposes metal plates in expected places such as shoulder pads and back pockets whilst mixing in unexpected knee pads.

Husam currently has a collection of jewelry in Topman sporting soldiers and manly tools like his spanner bangle.

Mid-day cravings

2009-11-23T08:04:00.000-08:00

Call me Annie Leibovitz

2009-11-22T16:05:00.000-08:00

My naivety was quite extreme when I started begging for a SLR camera thinking it couldn't possibly be as hard to use as the buttons and features on the objects make themselves out to be. Obviously the word idiot should be stamped on my forehead as low and behold the camera has been sitting on my desk tormenting me for the better half of this year. Well action was taken last weekend as I actually dragged my ass into town and took a course. Yes, I finally understand why my images were blurry and not in the good out of focus way, just plain old blurry.
Needless to say my photos from the day are pretty lame like my door handle in focus with the background blurry but I hold my head high with pride. Yet, the door handle is as far as I have gotten this far and so street style pictures will have to wait a tad longer for me as I really don't want to fiddle around whilst someone walks away from me out of boredom. Instead, I'm having to "borrow" images from the professionals.

Absolutely in love with this outfit. It's making me want to flick some paint onto my black leggings a little bit. Possible DIY disaster me thinks...
(photo via dirtylittlestylewhore)

Where should I park?

2009-11-21T11:08:00.000-08:00

I'm on a slight Selfridges rant atm but I've stumbled across amazing snaps from the Vivienne Westwood Anglomania show on Tuesday in the Selfridges car park. After the Mothers4Daughters charity sale, this car park is seeing quite a lot more fashion action that its usual stampede of yellow bags it is used to.

Joyful help

2009-11-21T10:36:00.000-08:00

It's now that time of the year when I'm contemplating buying the cheaper tomatoes with the pounding reminders of christmas shopping closing in. The lovely people at Selfridges have decided to help me with this conundrum by offering us all 20% off of a massive range of brands all housed in their kingdom.
Click here to participate in the joy.

*** click on the terms to see which brands are participating

When a chunky knit wont do

2009-11-20T10:29:00.000-08:00

If I were forced to compliment the weather of our grey-skied country, I think the word "predictable" is best suited because of its hidden negativity. Whilst the cold is it always welcomed, the layering of clothes associated with the wind is. A cardi, a trench, gloves and a scarf. The scarf suddenly becomes the jewelry bringing an ensemble together. The choice of scarves is thus bound to be an important one, an inevitably there are choices, choices, everywhere.

Ahliya's new collection wraps a soft piece of cashmere around our bare, cold necks making it undeniably tempting swap a pillow for a scarf.

TomTom Geometrics

2009-11-19T16:09:00.000-08:00

No I'm not writing a strange post about my sat nav as the title may imply, I'm in fact boasting about the mesmerising sharp, tribal - esque yet immensely feminine jewelry by Tom Tom.

The collection, called Shape Shape It Up, is a node to jeweled and golden symmetries with quite a friendly price tag of around $100+ attached to it.

A wintery summer

2009-11-19T13:27:00.000-08:00

I know I've been M.I.A for about a week now, and I've completely lost my way in the world of blogdom and made it onto the wrong side of the road admiringly watching all the fashion bloggers marching by tutting at my lack of writing but my oh my are deadlines all over me, it aint no joke when they say 3rd year's a bitch. Well I aim to keep my posts a tad less sporadic so that this ickle page of mine doesn't fall back into a distant memory...

My slip of the word "marching" was a slight ploy to get me to this point where I can neatly slide my post in all about shoes, shoes, shoes. These shoes are the works of Nicholas Kirkwood. This crafty man has become known for his collaborations on the runways. What has caught my eyes is his play on the Summer. On one hand, Kirkwood gives us the bright, pop-colours we all embrace when a twinkle of sunlight begins. Yet, somehow Kirkwood has flipped the script by showing us summer can still show off the studs and metallics we'e all undoubtedly invested in this season with his almost robotic Rodarte wonders. Studs studs studs are here to stay

A different view

2009-11-11T10:32:00.000-08:00

As I hit letters on my keyboard, I'm starting to think this post should be neatly tucked in between fashion week posts and the world of fashion dictates to keep posts up to date with every clock hand turn, but with that said I am not promoting new shows or trends as I have probably showed off these collections at earlier dates, rather, I'm proving the power of photography and settings.

Always being that poor excuse of a initiator, I sit on chair with a large camera in my hands big enough to topple me over thinking yes, very soon I shall learn how to use one of these. Yet here I am quite a long time after very soon still gaugling at other's works repeating that same phrase. I may have now mislead you to think I'm showcasing my work - it still in its figurative state. NO, no, what I'm getting to, rather longwindedly, is that as I look back at LFW catwalk shows, I realise that sitting idle at a computer screen looking at girls walk down a runway with very little facial expressions does not evoke much out of me. Take the camera man by the hand and lead him backstage and it's a whole new ballgame where the clothes are given personalities and come to life.

Another Topshop concoction

2009-11-07T08:21:00.000-08:00

It always baffles me when someone asks me to define my style. Without getting philosophical about what style actually is, I think of my cupboard as a tad random to clearly summarise. Not only does my "style" change frequently, it seems to differ with seasons. To answer this question I figured best to show pieces I like and judgements can be made by all as to my style...
As per usual, the selection is made by ye old faithful Topshop - how conventional of me I know but a) it always teases me with clothing I'd love to blow my funds on and b) images are abundant so I don't need to go searching too hard. Pardon my semi-laziness?

The sequin trousers make me drool but I shall resist with my personal pantomime of recession/don't give into short-lived trends

The velvet playsuit is a certain purchase as soon as I hit local ground

decorative leggings are and Im sure will be for a long time my fail-safe items.

My updated rant to Santa

2009-11-07T07:44:00.000-08:00

Contrary to what this title may have you assume, I won't share another letter to the bearded man as I fear in the whole tell a wish it wont come true scenario might bite me in the ass. Instead I'll summarise as more of a news sharing bulletin (have I given the impression that i believe in Santa now?)
One thing we can't deny in London, or really the entire Western world, is the hype and effort stores contribute to making our Christmas full of smiles and ultimately consumerism. What a better way to seduce my eyes this month than with a Christmas tree decorated in L's and V's?

Yes, it's another pop-up store. Louis Vuitton set up shop in Selfridges especially for Christmas, filled with goodies and pleasures. What's the star/limited edition offering good ol' Marc hooked up? (which if i ever meet him will definitely stumble out more like Mr Jacobs). It's all about the dogs at Louis Vuitton. Find rows of doggie bags, collars, leashes etc and promote your dog loving further with the special edition dog motif t-shirt. My rant to Santa is undoubtedly on a more selfish note relating to their non-dog products lest I feel to emasculate my largely sized dog.

* Summary- I guess I wasn't lying with my "rant" title - Check out the Louis Vuitton Christmas edition store in Selfridges

Back in time

2009-11-04T17:48:00.000-08:00

When I hit year 10, I followed the crowd like the ickle sheep I was and metaphorically threw my backpack into the fire and switched to the oh so cool Nike string bags to ensure I was always congruent with the "cool kids". Gone were the days of my Animal backpack with the dangling monkey smiling behind my back.

Since that day I have not dared to slide a backpack on and subconsciously snigger and cringe at the thought of a backpack. I now find myself torn as I seem to have regressed back to my innocent youthful ways and have actually fallen in love with a backpack. I guess the Chanel logo and irresistible gold chains remove any nerdy connotation a backpack can hold. Oh the power of luxury.

Photos via fashiontoast

Global education

2009-11-03T16:12:00.000-08:00

We are all aware of the immensely publicised - especially with Twitter on the go, of our major fashion weeks where designers and models showcase creations down the runways of Paris, London, Milan and New York. My question is why do we stop there? Why don't we go further and embrace the collections featured in Japan fashion week during the latter quarter of last month?
I've personally always admired and been astounded by the creative and innovative style that ecompasses the far reaches of Asian lands that I pray to venture to some day soon, yet I know nothing about the designers and their collections spawned from this part of the globe. Shamefully, the only names i can recite are Comme de Garcons and Yohji Yamamoto (after some expected stuttering) and that's only because they pop themselves down to Paris fashion week! Well the shame haunted me enough and off to Google I went for some schooling.
One brand that really encompasses everything I was hoping to find is Dress 33. Designer Toshikazu Iwaya combines theatre, couture and luxury in the collections shown on their website where every inch of a garment is immaculately detailed.
The website boasts pictures of both A/W 09 and S/S 09 collections with a video of the latest S/S 10 collections.
S/S 09 is a a nod towards empowerment with military connotations. It is definitely filled with more black than expected in a summer collection but hey, the length is kept short for some breeze.

Sadly, I can't get images of the latest show but watch the video. The collection is full of colour and tiered silks.

Another seriously interesting collection is by mint designs where the collection uses quite cute pyjama looking prints and turning them into anything but cute. A tad bit more Halloween-esque with the wires on the models faces, possibly avoiding swine flu? Here's how to make swine fashionable... pause for pity laughter...

Just a little request

2009-11-03T15:15:00.000-08:00

It's no great surprise to you that this letter comes with my usual request of a bag. But Santa, this year I want a very special kind of bag. I know, I know, every year it's the same old story, but this one is special. It's shelter for my beloved laptop and iPhone. I bet you raised your eyebrows at the thought of a laptop case. "Why a laptop case?" I predict you'll ask. Well Santa, it's because Mulberry made me this laptop case with their irresistible Mulberry demure. The collection shows off shiny, patent, impeccably crafted laptop bags that will have my laptop and wallet fighting over a turn at being carried around in a new beautiful home. Mulberry has even been so kind as to make cushioning for my laptop and extra pockets for my headphones and iPhone. I wont be selfish Santa and ask for the entire collection, but with oh such different styles and colours to chose from, I'll leave that one to you...
Love always
Fashionfollowed x

A sleepless night as I dream of you

2009-11-02T10:24:00.000-08:00

Dearest Chloe 'Susan' boots

Flicking through the years

2009-11-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

What better for the creative and inspiration deprived mind than a jam packed, 300+ paged book presenting actors, artists, models, political figures all photographed in the Vogue way. Yes, it's another Vogue book which always promises work from the best photographers such as legendary Annie Leibovitz, Bruce Weber etc.
The book shows photos dating back to the beginning of the 90's showing how our society has developed and with it what constitutes as art, fashion and celebrity. Oh how our modern ways are put to shame.

The World in Vogue: People, Parties, Places is not yet released but can be pre-ordered over at Amazon.

Heavy metal

2009-11-01T11:39:00.000-08:00

Questionable

2009-11-01T08:40:00.000-08:00

Is David Koma best left for the catwalk?

They only come out at night

2009-11-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

I've recently taken on the role of social recluse as impending deadlines are nearing, so my street style intake is pretty limited. Luckily, this land of computers means I don't have to step out of my 4 walled confinement.
One area I've been gagging to explore is the Liberty/Show Studio initiative where passers by took photos of themselves with our favourite and mysterious Gareth Pugh judging the best street style.
Flicking through the days and time slots a certain trend arises. Morning-16:30 shows happy smiling children, families, shoppers etc pulling funny faces, couples kissing etc. Once 17:00 hits and those stuck at work venture onto the streets the frame changes and more colour and personal style takes over.
The most interesting time of day at any day has to be when the sun has gone to sleep and creativity breaks loose.
Sticking to the topic of style I've picked out my fave photos that typically start from the 5pm slot.
Once night hits it is a bit harder to see but squint your eyes, move your face onto the screen if needed and see what initiative lives in our streets of London.
Two girls put in the effort to bare all clothes for g-d sake!

This is how rock n rollers do

2009-10-28T17:24:00.000-07:00

Behind the lens snaps Bryan Adams whilst Rolling Stone's Ronnie Wood exhibits his artwork. Sounding like a 1970's, drug-induced fantasy? Bring this image 30 odd years forward and change the setting to Liberty's luxury department store. Ronnie Stewart has gone from rock and roll guitarist to fashionista! From guitar legend to artist to clothing designer Stewart (with the help of Liberty) has created a limited edition range of clothing for Liberty from three of his paintings inspired by the day when he decided to turn his life around. Keeping it insanely exclusive slash collectors item, the range only consists of 80 holdalls, 150 scarves, 150 dresses amongst others.

Psychedelic is the only word I can think of right now... geek?

Getting graphic

2009-10-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

Combine my love for prints with my leggings fanaticism in a big blender, mix in some colour and a bit of structure and what do you get? Ostwald Helgason.
Founded in 2006 by two German designers, the brand produces structure with graphic print and colour with feminine and soft undertones.
The brand has recently collaborated with ASOS to provide us with animal prints, lines, graphics and colours and paneling to create dresses, tops, skirts and leggings that have made their way to my wish-list.
Final note: welcome back to the skirt over trousers appearance

When obsession sets in

2009-10-26T17:26:00.000-07:00

The year 2008 brought us many joys, one of which is the arrive of Cherly Cole to the X-factor and very quickly into our hearts. The country has with no doubt geared over to a slightly more obsessed side of this admiration where CherylColeStyle was the next obvious step to take: an entire website dedicated to her style and where to buy the clothes she wears for a much more reasonable price tag.
Slightly obsessive but will for sure cater to a very large audience!

Body Painting

2009-10-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

And I thought tattoos weren't feminine...

Can I live in these photos?

2009-10-23T14:32:00.000-07:00

My personal belief is that the most powerful thing about art is the way it immediately evokes a response. It's not like a TV show or that book you read three chapters of before you decided you didn't like it, art instantly awakens your mind. Of course this all depends on one's definition of art. So to avoid all philosophical connotations that arise when the word art is spoken, I will state now I am referring to paintings, photography and sculpting.
One man's work who will always continue to astound and challenge all sides of my brain is photographer Tim Walker, a man who will without fail provide some sort of inspiration.
This photograph that is displayed as entering his website perfectly encapsulates this point.
An extremely large, dark house: alone, darkness, gloom
Filled with balloons: children, parties, laughter, even Parisian Dior adverts
Join the two together in this Walker photograph = food for thought

Lets do something together

2009-10-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure whether it's down to the recession and brands are trying to boost spending by stirring new excitement, or it just so happened but I've found myself dumbfounded by the amount of collaborations that have sparked into action over the last 6 months.

Christian Louboutin as I've mentioned has stepped out of his luxury footwear creations and developed an amazingly crafted champagne inspired (not to be worn) shoe with his collaboration with Champaign legends Piper Heidsieck. And now, even Barbie gets to be blessed with a pair of Louboutin's for her 50th birthday. Louboutin is now creating pink pumps for our plastic dolls that will be replicated form those worn down the recent Barbie runway.

Although, this has created a tad bit of controversy at the shoe designer said Barbie has "Cankles" tut tut...

Next up on the collaboration front is Kanye West simply because I had no idea this went on, but I'm not really the target audience to be fair.

News has it that Kanye West created a line of "sneakers" - trainers over on this side of the world - for Louis Vuitton.

And I must say, this mixture of premium materials, suede, gold rings and a nice Louis Vuitton stamp, I feel strangely drawn to them.... The mysticism of branding has taken hold!

Coming down the mountain

2009-10-22T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hat: River Island
Top, bag and skirt: Topshop
Leggings: American Apparel
Sandals: Next

Is this what you do at 2:30am?

2009-10-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

What others call an addiction to shopping, I like to call an illness because no matter what the situation is that month, I WILL BUY THOSE BOOTS. Talking to some friends it seems us girls are willing to completely starve ourselves or just buy those shitty £3 ready meals that will last all week just to take that cash and spend it on our appearances. Sad aint it?? What's sadder is I'm shamefully victim to this and will cut back on all I can for the sake of fashion.

Instead of allowing myself to up and leave the house and venture out to the tempting fortress of a shopping center, I innocently sit online endlessly browsing through retailer's websites.

Topshop is obviously a favourite and I actually find their website way to tempting and fear that I will fall into their seductive forces.

Instead, I clicked onto Polyvore to make a little wishlist/never gonna happen collage of items that have caught my eyes. mmmmmmmmmmmmm shopping......

Even my alcohol is studded

2009-10-20T17:54:00.000-07:00

These winter times have called on a mass rock/edgy following with studs being seen everywhere. I'm not going to lie, I have massively adorned this trend, mostly because I can buy a big bag o studs and decorate away.
The question I pose here is how far to trends go. We're aware fashion seeps into interiors with designers such as Vivienne Westwood creating wallpaper but now I give you this, a studded, leather Absolut Vodka bottle for their ABSOLUT world, you rock campaign. I'm now waiting for someone to make me a studded salad bowl...

Lets play dress up

2009-10-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

We've all finally accepted the fashion houses take on the bunny ears but if rumours are true, we're going to have to give in to drag now too. It's not been released whether she'll actually be sporting a mustache and a thick pair of eye brows but Madonna is apparently going to the play the admirer of the bunny ears. The word from Grazia is Madonna will be modeling for the a D&G menswear campaign. A bit of a leap from her latest seductive, long legged Louis Vuitton campaigns?

Not another Burberry boot!

2009-10-19T14:50:00.000-07:00

I know it seems I flick through every high-street retailer in sight in hopes of finding more Burberry-esque boots but this River Island gem actually came looking for me... With the chunky heel, buckles and folded over warmth, my search can come to a much-overdue end...

2009-10-19T14:41:00.000-07:00

Warning in advance: This is completely self-involved post but I have no shame as

Today marks a very special day as it was the very first time I've seen my words printed beyond this cyber-world that consists of a larger audience that a receiver of a birthday card or text message. I was a feature writer for my uni's newspaper boasting all about this wonderful page of mine. A little thank you pause here for the editors xx

I feel pretty, oh so pretty

2009-10-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

François Nars of Nars cosmetics made his long-aprehended return to shows this season by taking on the high-profile duty of perfecting the 1960's inspired make-up beamed by Marc Jacob's models down the runways of New York. Eyes were line in swift, black and white motions whilst faces remained pale.

In a of you scratch my back I'll scratch yours kind of way, Marc Jacobs also fell rule into Nars's colourful hands and is featured, pouting, in Nars's third photography book that uses iconic imagery and celebrities to highlight a specific Nars product and emotion.

In Marc's case, his usually hunky animated body has been, shall I say, made effeminate boasting red lipstick and red Nars nail polish in" Dovima" shade.

Aint he pretty?

Made me chuckle

2009-10-15T15:35:00.001-07:00

A walk around the corner

2009-10-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

What a better way for everyone's beloved childhood furry friends from the best street around to celebrate their 40th birthday than hanging out with models and renowned designers?

The September issue of Harpers Bazaar US took a stroll down to Sesame Street with designers DVF, Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera and others along with models draped in their clothing for a shoot with out favourite creatures to create this whimsical photoshoot. Maybe this will bring the show back to the UK?

Watch them in action:

It's all in the name of fashion

2009-10-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

Graffiti to some is an art form, to others is vandalism. Which ever view you hold, when living in a Metropolis, you are bound to walk amongst these self-expressive illustrations and so where to draw the line at art/vandalism is immanently relevant. The anonymous French street-artist Zevs however pushes the boundaries with his fashion inspired and sometime humorous creations. When they say no publicity is bad publicity, they must be referring to Zevs new place on the art world map. After his controversial paint splashes between model's eyes, Zevs finally pushed the boundaries that one step too far and was arrested after painting a giant dripping Chanel logo on an Armani store wall in Hong Kong.

Case in point, one mans art is another's trash.