Marks & Sparks Indeed

Last month it was announced that Marks and Spencers were letting go of their celebrity packed adverts after being criticized for filling adverts with glamorous and famous girls pretending to be normal whilst dancing on yachts and the like.  It was then assumed that the high street chain was on a cost cutting mission and had decided to replace the faces of stars such as Danni Minogue and Myleene Klass with more wholesome characters, staying true to represent the brands loyal yet older clientele.


Today it has been revealed not to be the case at all.  The British retailer has in fact gone a step in the other direction, and hire perhaps two of the most glamorous celebs around at the moment - Hollywood A listers Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Ryan Reynolds.

Marks and Spencers executive director told the Daily Mail that 'Rosie and Ryan are the perfect fit for Autograph - beautiful, exclusive and absolutely contemporary. On set, they worked together to deliver a mesmerising performance which allowed us to capture shots that literally sizzle with excitement and an air of mystery.'

The couple will represent the brands Autograph range, whilst stars such as David Gandy and Molly from The Saturdays have been hired to front the campaign for Collezione, whilst previous stars Jamie Redknapp, Lisa Snowdon and Twiggy will remain part of the companies future campaigns.

The Autograph campaign goes live across stores nationwide tomorrow.

VMA's 2011

Those of you who know me, will know how much I <3 MTV awards.  Like literally, aside from Christmas, they are my favourite time of year.  I actually save the dates in my diary just incase for some abnormal reason I forget.  Now, out of all three, the VMA's are probably my least favourite, but still worth setting an evening aside for.  And this year didn't disappoint.  There was Lady Gaga's drag queen act, Beyonce's pregnancy announcement and Jay-Z and Kanye bought Otis to the world (I''d heard it before all be it a fuzzy version, and I wont lie, as a massive Jay-Z and Kanye fan I am HUGELY disappointed!).  However, the outfits more than made up for any disappointments the night bought.

First up is Katy Perry, yes that is pink hair, yes she is dressed up in an Asian style Versace dress.  But the fact that it is made by the famous Italian design house in no excuse for this outfit.  Katie, the most nominated female of the night, usually flaunts her gorgeous figure in quirky, yet sexy numbers, with her dark black hair deepening her already stunning features.  I'm not sure if it's being married to Russel brand that has done this, or if this is just another spin off of the world that Gaga has created for us, but Katie, this look has got to go.

Nikki Minaj, where to start.  Another spawn of the Gaga era.  This confectionary/ plush toys ensemble is just shocking.  The multi coloured hair looked good, the pink hair looked good, but this is just a step to far.  She may usually look quirky, but good quirky, this is just trying too hard gone wrong.  Gaga wasn't joking when she talked of 'Little Monsters'

Ahh Lady G herself.  No stranger to making headlines at MTV awards, we had the Meat Dress, the Red Lace, so this year, by all means with rather toned down.  She went for the drag queen act this year, dressing as male 'alter ego' Jo Calderone, which many of us will recognize from the 'You and I' video.  She then went on to attempt to initiate a kiss with Britney Spears, only to be told 'I already did that, i'm an old fashioned girl'.

Ok, crazy and needtobeburnt outfits aside, onto some of the better options.  First up is Adele, who wore Burberry, a simple black dress with an embellished neckline - one which suited her perfectly.  Accessorising the outfit she had simple black shoes, with a gold trim, her flawless make up, as usual and a bouffant hairdo.  There's a reason this girls a winner, and the VMA's were no exception.

Katy Homes.  The girl well known for her usually dreary dress sense garnered mix reactions from her outfit choice this weekend.  No doubt about it this Azzedine Alaia number was the perfect choice for her delicate frame.  Yet the footwear were perhaps not the best idea, these Proenza Schoeller boots would have look more at home on someone wearing skinny jeans and a gilet.

Finally, the star of the night. Miss Beyonce Knowles.  Not only announcing her pregnancy, but looking as stunning as ever in the asymmetric Lanvin gown.  God that girl is a winner.

Is McQueen Actually Coming Home?

Earlier this month I bought you news of the record breaking exhibition Savage Beauties final weekend in New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art, last week it was a petition to have this exhibition to be put on display in McQueen's home town, and today its the news that this might just be happening.


"Alexander McQueen appreciates the huge amount of interest the public has shown towards the Savage Beauty exhibition. We have been in discussion with a number of major venues in London for some time now however nothing has been finalised. Please be assured that an official announcement will be made the moment we confirm our plans for London." Said a speaker at McQueen HQ.


Although the exhibition was made to specifically fill the space at the Met's Costume Institute, it has been said that those at the V&A are more than willing to hold the exhibition there.  

Sofia Coppola Marries In Alaia

Azzedine Alaia has always been well known for his fiercely low profile shows.  He has enjoyed success with his RTW collections despite only showing his collections in his personal showroom in Marais, Paris.  However this summer he famously decided to have his first fashion show in 8 years, with guests including Kanye West and Donatella Versace.

Well the decision definitely paid off, not only did he gain notoriety throughout the fashion world for NOT inviting certain people.  But he had an impact on one of his guests more than others.  Director Sofia Coppola, who then asked the Tunisian born designer to create her wedding gown.

Sofia married her long term boyfriend Phoenix Thomas Mars at her families villa in Southern Italy in front of just over 100 guests including Johnny Depp and George Lucas.  Alaia created Sofia a short, sleevless lavender chiffon dress with high neckline and a pleated skirt, as well as a dress for daughter, Romy.

Payday Purchase

I was walking to work on Wednesday morning, annoyed at the fact that it wasn't yet 7am and I'd already managed to get my trousers muddy, annoyed at my lack of sleep the previous night, and annoyed that despite it being late August, we'd yet to see a true summers day. I get this way a lot in the mornings. My sister sometimes says that I'm like Jekyll and Hyde.

My sister also tells me that the glass should be half full, I try to remember this when having one of my early morning mood swings. And, you know, it really does work. I mean if we had of had a true summer then I would of only been miserable for two months as I totally detest the heat. I've also trained myself to take 5 deep breaths whenever I get into one of these moods, to prevent myself to taking it out on anyone else.

So here I am standing in the middle of the street taking these deep breaths, looking a bit of an idiot, when I notice something, a smell. The smell of Autumn. Now bear with me, yes I do realise just how corny that sounds. Yet it's true, and with the thought of Autumn, my mind travels to a much happier place, one with bonfires and hot chocolate, chelsea boots and autumn jackets.

So with that in mind I decided to spend my lunch break scouring websites for what is the beginning of my winter wardrobe when I found this piece.

A Paul and Joe Sister Mixed Wool Car Coat. The double breast and textured collar give it that military feel, the fabric manages to keep it from being too formal. It looks perfect with skinnies and riding boots, or even with a nice dress with tights. Perfect for travelling the 300 miles between my house and my parents for a pre christmas visit. And at £165 it's an investment.

Available at My Wardrobe
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Modern Matthew

Not only has Matthew Williamson this month launched his first diffusion line (MW - available from My-Wardrobe) but he has also this week announced that his S/S 12 show is to take place at The Tate Modern, becoming the first designer to do so.

He told Vogue.co.uk  "It's an amazing space which I feel will contrast really well with the collection. I'm looking forward to creating an intimate space within the hall and seeing the intricately detailed clothes work against the stark, minimalist structure."

Bring McQueen Home

Lee Alexander McQueen, one of the greatest fashion designers in British history, also the designer who helped London claim the title of Fashion Capital of The World once more, the designer who bought made tartan cool again and who arguably made low rise trousers umm fashionable.

Everything about him was British, from his designs to his inspiration to his first job as a tailor (he had an apprenticeship on Savile Row) and yet, his lifes work was still honoured over 3000 miles away in New York, where many of dedicated to all that is McQueen never even had a hope of seeing it.

Well now is your chance to rectify this.  Last week Grazia editor at large Melanie Rickey started a petition on Twitter that was so popular that it now has its own official petition going on the magazines website.  All work from the exhibition will be being returned to the McQueen offices sometime next week.  It has been said that the V&A are willing to host the exhibition and that McQueen HQ are now aware of the petition, all that remains is for us to signing.

It will take you literally two minutes, so get those fingers wagging guys!  Sign the petition here http://goo.gl/csnD9

Philo For Vuitton?

Two weeks ago news broke that Bernard Arnault had handpicked Marc Jacobs to replace John Galliano at the helm of Louis Vuitton.  Something that was neither confirmed or denied by the fashion designer.  Today WWD has added more to the rumour mill by adding that Marc Jacobs is now officially in negotiations with the fashion giant this week.

Another rumour that has also emerged is that Phoebe Philo, a British designer best know for her work with Chloe and currently the creative director of Celine, is set to take over Louis Vuitton should Marc Jacobs choose to move.

All three companies, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton and Celine as well as Marc Jacobs are owned by fashion conglomerate LVMH.

More to follow.

Payday Purchase

This weeks Payday Purchase is literally one of my favourite items of the last few seasons. We've seen huge trends in the way of Converse and Vans this past year, now it's time for a new shoe to take over. Superga.

The lightweight canvas tennis shoe, which is also machine washable BTW, has been around for around 80 years but has only just got it's turn in the spotlight thanks to stars such as Sienna Miller, Mary Kate Olsen and even Liv Tyler.

Considering owning about a hunder pairs of Converse I've not had a massive urge to run out and get a pair of Vans or even Supergas, until I spotted this pair that is.

These Superga 2750 Cotu Classic in Carrot is the perfect shoe for the autumn and will do perfectly with skinnies and a nice baggy tee for when I'm rushing about at the weekends. And what's more, at £40 the purchase won't even break the bank!

Available online at Superga
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Conde Trash

We've seen it in the beginning of The Devil Wears Prada. Miranda Priestly's opening scene, she steps into the elevator and the scared assistant apologises and runs back out. Cut 40 minutes into the film and we see Emily Blunt and Giselle's character's laughing at the girl Anne Hathaway portrays for not knowing what a Shu Uemura eyelash curler is.

Well that is real life for many in the Conde Nast employees. And now it has all been made public thanks to one very brave (or incredibly stupid depeding on how you look at it) Conde Nast employee. Yes that's right, the Conde Nast tower now has its very own Gossip Girl, a mystery tweeter by the name of @CondeElevator.

The mystery tweeters profile boasts a picture of Miranda Priestly (the character based on Notorious American Vogue Editor Anna Wintour) and a bio which states 'Things heard in the Conde Nast elevators do not stay in the Conde Nast elevators. Email what you hear to condeelevator@gmail.com' and whilst they have gained over 80,000 followers in a short amount of time, it appears that they have managed to 'turn Anna's normally frosty exterior into pure ice'.

Tweets include ' Woman #1 to Woman #2 holding an omelette: What's the occasion? Woman #2 Huh? Woman #1: I would need an occasion to eat that'

Apparntly there is now a witch hunt underway in Conde Nast to find the culprit.

View their tweets yourself @CondeElevator

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Lang Loves London

Wow, it really does seem like high end designers just cant enough of the streets of London.  So far we have had Tom Ford, Isabel Marant and Victoria's Secret announce plans to open in the capital of England.  

Today, further news announced that the Austrian fashion brand is joining the ranks of fashions finest and launching it's first UK store in London's Notting Hill next month.  The store, which is to fill an 800 sq ft store on Westbourne Grove, will be the first of the brands free standing stores in Europe.  The fashion house, which is known for its minimalist yet severe designs, has said that the store will contain pieces from the A/W 11 collection against a backdrop of natural materials.

Honestly, this, coupled with Victoria's Secret's opening, I think I'm going to explode with excitement.

Abercrombie & Fitch's Situation

Normally on reality shows, you have brands paying stars to endorse their products, as it shows that products placement is a far more successful method of promotion than advertising.  Abercrombie & Fitch are clearly NOT one of these brands after it emerged that they had offered 'Jersey Shore' star 'The Situation' a large pay off to NOT wear their clothes.

The American clothing brand apparently feel like The Situation (real name Mike Sorrentino) damages their brand with a spokesperson for the company saying 'we understand that the show is for entertainment purposes, but believe this association is contrary to the aspirational nature of our brand, and may be distressing to many of our fans'

As a fashion lover and student, I can completely see what the company are talking about, Jersey Shore is not my kind of reality show at all, however  I cant help thinking that perhaps A&F should have come to this decision before launching Jersey Shore inspired tops such as the two pictured below.

A& F G.T.I tee (representing the Jersey Shore slogan Gym, Tan, laundry)

A&F 'The Fitchuation' Tee

Whilst being deemed as an exclusive brand in the UK, Abercrombie and Fitch have had more than their fair share of bad press over the years, in particular reference to their being sued after one girl was offered a job, after which bosses discovered her prosthetic arm and told her she had to stay in the stock room as she 'misrepresented' their image.  It seems investors have perhaps had enough of the brands 'holier than thou' attitude after it emerged yesterday that the American clothing brands shares had dropped by 9% since the news broke.

Victoria's UK Secret

This summer has seen the rise of high fashion on the British highstreet, with Tom Ford and Isabel Marant both opening their first UK stores and it being announced yesterday the London is officially the fashion capital of the world.  Well today we have one more to add to that list.  Yes the secret is out....American brand Victoria's secret is finally coming to the streets of London.

The world renowned lingerie brand have announced that they will be opening their UK flagship next summer, on London's New Bond Street, rumoured to be along with another two UK stores in the following months, as the first part of their global expansion plan.

The lingerie store was founded back in 1977 by Roy Raymond after he discovered he was too embarrassed in underwear stores to buy his wife gifts.  It has since then become one of the most famous lingerie brands in the world after the high profile theatrical fashion show and has since launched the career of many high profile models such as Rosie Huntington - Whiteley, Miranda Kerr and Giselle.

Officially Fashions Finest - London

London has officially taken over New York and Paris as the Fashion Capital of the world.

Statistics were released today from the Global Language Monitor (a company based in Austin, Texas that analyzes trends in the worlds languages - particularly English) that show that Fashion greats such as Kate Middleton and Alexander McQueen have helped us claim the top spot after coming in third last year.

Figures also revealed that Milan had once again entered 4th position, showing that the most famous fashion capitals gained top positions with NYC coming in second and Paris 3rd.  Hong Kong has dropped from 2 to 6, but is still the most fashionable place in Asia.  Berlin also entered the top 10 for the first time, making Europe the most fashionable contintnent.

See the top 10 here.

1. London, England

Up from 3rd The home of many of fashions finest, from Kate Moss to Robert Pattinson.  it was the Duchess of Cambridge and Alexander McQueen that helped solidify us at the top spot.

2. New York City, USA

Down from 1st. The City that bought us Diane Von Furstenburg and Sex in the city.  But we have Kate and McQueen.

3. Paris, France

Up from 4th.  The city that all of us fashion lovers adore for Chanel and Isabel Marant to name a few, but maybe the media feel have fallen off of the fashion scale.

4. Milan, Italy

Up from 6th, putting the most powerful fashion cities back in the top four.  Home of the late Gianni Versace and Miuccia Prada.

5. Los Angeles, USA

Held Position.  The City that bought us Lauren Conrad and Whitney Port through the medium of The Hills.  Maybe if they hadn't also condemned us with Heidi & Spencer they'd have a higher position.

6. Hong Kong, China

Although down from number two, the Chinese city is again the most fashionable Asian city which has bought us designers such as John Rocha.

7. Barcelona, Spain

The 16th most visited and most 'liveable' city in the world which has bought us one of the most famnous football teams in the world as well as sights such as the Torre Agbar (below) has moved up 3 places from 10.

8. Singapore, Malay Peninsula

The republics first entry into the top ten after coming in at number 15 last year.  The 'gateway betweeen east and west' is home to the Textile and Fashion Federation.

9. Tokyo, Japan
Another new entry in the top 10 after only finishing 14th in 2010.  Tokyo is well known for having the largest metropolitan economy in the world as well as being the setting for many Hollywood/Japanese style horror films, from Godzilla to Kill Bill.

10.  Berlin, Germany

Up from 18, Berlin is one of the 16 states and capital of Germany and most famous for the wall built to seperate the East and West of the city in 1961 and the street art that covered the wall before it was torn down.

Isabel in England

This summer, fashion's Mr Perfectionist Tom Ford announced he was to open his first British store in Harrods, London.  This week Isabel Marant announced she is to do the same.

The French designer, who already has stores in France, NYC, Beijing and Beirut, is to open her first British store on Mayfair's Bruton Street, which is already graced by fashions finest - the likes of Diane Von Furstenburg and Stella McCartney.  The 3500 sq foot space has been taken over from the Haycon Gallery.

Moet for Mario

Yesterday forums went crazy with the news that Peruvian photographer Mario Testino had hit a hatrick for the September Issue of the international Vogue covers.  Today it has been announced that he is to be honored with the new Moet & Chandon Etoile award, which he will receive during London Fashion Week on September 19th.


He will be the first recipient of this award, which in one to recognize the talent of one who has had a longstanding influence on cultural society.  Testino said of the news "For me, Moët & Chandon represents excellence and luxury and for this reason I feel very honored to be the first person receiving the Etoile award, in this my 30th year as a photographer, and I thank them for it" 

Testino's Triple

Arguably one of the most famous photographers in the world,  Mario Testino has accomplished that which none before him has managed to do.  A hat-rick of covers for Vogue's September issue.  The issue is one of the most important for fashion insiders, whether model or photography after it was the main feature of R Cutlers gripping documentary after the September 2007 magazine weighed nearly 5 lbs.

Testino, who was a favorite of Lady Diana Spencer's as well the photographer behind Wills and Kate's official engagement portrait, was today unveiled as 'the cat that got the cream' after his picture of Grace Kelly's granddaughter Charlotte Casiraghi emerged was chosen as the cover for French Vogue after Emmanuel Alt's decision to take some of the limelight off of British royal Kate Middleton

On top of this latest release he was also behind Kate Moss image on US Vogue as well as Freja Beha Erichsen on British Vogue.

French Vogue cover girl and Monaco Royalty Charlotte Caserati

UK covergirl and actress Freja Beha Erichsen in Dolce & Gabbana

After Testino shot her wedding photo's she was also shot by him for the cover of US Vogue wearing Alexander McQueen

The Ultimate Barbie

She was a fashion icon, american actress and a princess who won numerous awards as well as the peoples hearts.  Now Grace Kelly has been forever immortalized as Barbie launch 3 differently dressed Grace Kelly dolls as part of the Barbie Collector Series.

The first - to be released in October- is the Romance Doll.  With an assortment of outfits including  a deep navy coat, wide brimmed hat and matching shift dress is more recognizable for the floral dress which is a replica of that which the princess wore when she first met Prince Rainier at Cannes Film Festival in 1955.

Secondly is the 'To Catch A Thief Doll' which is dressed in the ageless blue ball gown as seen in the 1955 romantic thriller Alfred Hitchcock movie set in the French Riviera she starred in along with Cary Grant.

 

Finally is the most iconic.  The Bride.  The name speaks for itself, the doll will wear a replica of Grace's timeless lace wedding dress and delicate headpiece and veil.

All proceeds of sales will go to The Princess Grace Foundation, a charity that helps young dancers and actors.

Well if it's for charity....I know what's going on my Christmas list.

Mary: Queen of her own shop

It all started in 2005 with a column in the Telegraph, 6 years on and Mary 'Queen of Shops' Portas is set to launch her own fashion range for the over 40s.

The Government Adviser became famous after her appearances throughout the country as she tried to help independant retailers on the failing British High Street reverse their fortunes on her television show 'Queen of Shops', which was then followed up by her mystery shop programme, in which she donned wigs and other such disguises to exposed the worst of the worst.

She this week puts her money where her mouth is and, in colloboration with House of Frasier, is launching her own concession within the Oxford Circus store.  The collection has been worked on for over a year and is Portas' own way of addressing what she feels to be a lack of decent clothes for the over 40's, saying that 'the high street has become a ghetto for the very young and impossibly skinny, once women hit 40 they become invisible, particularly in the fashion business'


The creation of the shop has been documented by Channel 4 and will be aired as a three part series in October.  


That's good, as we'll see the reasoning behind her thoughts that skin tight leather trousers are acceptable for a woman over 40.

Levi Withdraw Riot Ad After UK Violence

News surfaced today that Levi have pulled their current and first ever global advertising campaign from the UK after it was seen to 'glorify' the recent violence that has swept throughout the country.


The advert, entitled 'Levi's Legacy' which features a young man squaring up to riot police whilst the voiceover says 'You're Marvelous' and ends with the words 'Go Forth', was withdrawn after airing on Facebook on Tuesday night.

A representative for Levi told the press ''We are deeply disheartened about the unprecedented events taking place in the UK at the moment and which have impacted communities across the country, while 'Go Forth' is about embodying the energy and events of our time, it is not about any specific movement or political theme, it is about optimism, positive action and a pioneering spirit.  Out of sensitivity for what is happening in the UK, we have temporarily postponed our cinema and Facebook spots in the country"

Payday Purchase

It's official. I am in LOVE!! As soon as I saw this Jacket, I knew it was the one!!  Down from £195 to £156 it really is a steal.  The 'Cherry' Jacket from Reiss is a beautiful double breasted jacket, with a notched lapel, 3 front flap pockets and a slit pocket on the breast.  It's been described as a summer staple for the city girl, but teamed with dark skinny jeans and horse riding boots, it's perfect for the country too.  One that will carry your throughout the seasons and last you a lifetime, the Cherry is my must have of the week.

Get it now at Reiss

Louis Vuitton or Dior?

Many names have been thrown away this last six months as to who is going to be replacing John Galliano at the helm of Christian Dior, most high profile of which was Alaia.  Today it emerged on Vogue's online page that a source close to LVMH CEO (and 4th richest man in the world) Bernard Arnault has told a Brazilian magazine that Marc Jacobs is top of his list,  fuelling rumours that Jacobs is planing to switch fashion houses.

The source also said that it is being considered for Jacobs to oversee both fashion houses at the same time - which fashion insiders seem t think is unlikely.  Jacobs denied rumours in March that he was a candidate for the position,  but neither the designer or LVMH have commented on todays speculations.

Temperly for Barbour Unveiled

Hot after the succes of Anya Hindmarch's success with Barbour, Alice Temperly wasthe latest designer to announce a collaboration with the popular English Heritage brand back in October 2010.  Today she unveiled her new collection, which is a significant move, marking both British Houses tenth anniversaries.

The Barbour Gold Label by Temperly collection is a combination of Barbours classic styles with their original fabric, with the added glamour that the Temperly brand brings.  "You see an essence of the Temperley detailing throughout the collection mixed with traditional Barbour," the fashion designer told Vogue "I love the Somerset jacket in brown which features leather trimmed detailing, quilted shoulder details, nipped in waist and leopard print lining."

The collection comprises of 5 wax and leather jackets, with Temperly's finishing touches such as leapord print lining, as well as three chunky knits.  If has been said if the collection is successful this could just be the beginning with S/S 12 collections already in the pipeline.

The launch date is as of yet unannounced, but rumored to be sometime this month.