Move Over Alexa

Everybody in the fashion industry knows that your not anybody unless you have a Mulberry.  The Alexa launched a fresh new craze of 'IT' bags last year.  Whilst the Bayswater before it was a massive hit, the Alexa catapulted the British leather goods company back into the spotlight as a top fashion brand, something it had been slipping away from over the past few years.

Mulberry have now released the Evelina - named after Ukrainian Supermodel Eveline Mambetova, who walked in the Mulberry A/W 2010 show (below) and whom creative director Emma Hill describes as 'Edgy and totally of the season'.

Love Whitney

It's not hard to see how much I love Whitney Port, all you have to do is look at the right hand side of this page, or my bedroom door, or my magazine cuts....you get the idea.  This weekend Whitney was revealed as the face of Very.co.uk 's Love Label.

A brilliant move on both parts - constantly overshadowed online retailer will be bought to the attention to people like myself who otherwise would have overlooked them, and Whitney has a platform to launch her clothes this side of the pond (or so I'm hoping - Whitney Eve isn't very accessible!)

Check out these stunning pictures of the gorgeous reality star in the new campaign.

Payday Purchase

This week I got this stunning dress from the most unlikeliest of places - New Look.  Not exactly my favourite store but somehow this is not the first time the retailer has featured in my PDP!  I didn't actually intend to have this dress, I went for a more chic brown dress with a cute flower print, but my friend noticed it had a stain after which I of course had to exchange it.  

Luckily for me my size in the original dress was out of stock so I dejectedly bought this replacement.  I still don't know how I didn't pick this beaut first.  With it's v-neck it is perfect for dresses my ahem, expanding bust - something I majorly struggle with.  It's gorgeous print gives it that slight DVF look, and the ethereal fabric mean it'll last my right through to the summer.

Whilst it's primarily a day dress (I'd wear it with grungey black flat boots and cute beige ankle socks), I actually managed to get away with it for a night out in Suburbia, Hale y just adding a cute Topshop Blazer and Nude peeptoes.

The best part - £27.99.  Now that is a winner!

Get it here - New Look Printed Tea Dress - £27.99

Grace of Monaco's Movie

Grace Kelly lived the life that millions would kill for, she was an A-List movie star, a Princess and an Icon. To say that a movie about her has been highly anticipated would be an understatement.  An as of yet unnamed movie about the legend that was Grace Kelly has now been said to of secured funding, by way of £9.3m.  

Following the recent release of My Week With Marilyn and last years highly successful The Kings Speech, it has now come to light that the script has been penned by unknown Aresh Amel and produces Pierre-Ange Le Pogam is on the lookout for a director and a leading lady.

The film is said to focus on a 6 month period in 1962 when the French President Charles De Gaulle and Prince Rainier III were in disagreement over the tax haven in Monaco - an incident of which the Princess was detrimental in solving.

With actresses such as Charlize Theron and Diane Kruger in the frame for the lead role, I know I'm not the only one over excited about this project.

Jacob's New Job

Marc Jacobs yesterday accepted a new job within the fashion - but it wasn't the highly anticipated Dior position mentioned. He was instead invited as one of the newest members of the CFDA's board (which already consists of 26 designers).

Vuitton or Dior?

The announcement was made today after a meeting yesterday where the Louis Vuitton designer was invited along with Proenzer Schouler designers Jack McCullough and Lazaro Hernandez.  The trio are replacing existing board members Nicole Miller, John Bartlett and Richard Lambertson.

H&M and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

We've all seen how a movie franchise can turn themselves into a global brand (I myself have a choice few Team Edward pieces).  The Girl With The Dragon is set to be the latest movie to do this by teaming up with H&M for it's own clothing collaboration.

The books, based on Stieg Larsson's best Millennium trilogy, centers around Skinny computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (played by Freddie Kruger's Rooney Mara, below) a 20 something young women who is described as having the 'body of a 12 year old boy' and to those who have read the books, known for her leather jacket with rivets, heavy boots and overall grungey and punk appearance.

Not only is this highly anticipated movie directed by one of the best, David Fincher (of The Social Network and Fightclub fame) but the costume designer was none other than Trish Summerville, who dresses celebrities as far apart as Dita Von Teese to Ciara and Topher Grace to Steven Tyler.

The range will put a twist on 30 pieces of the retailers Divided range, giving them that hard, urban twist that we will see in the upcoming films, due for release on Dec 26th.  Expect lots of ripped denim, leather jackets and accessories such as knitted snoods and backpacks.

It will launch in the UK on Dec 14th, as well as 180 location worldwide and online, after it's debut in Paris on November 28th.  If you haven't yet read the book I suggest you go out and buy a copy now. 

Jimmy Choo For Men

Jimmy Choo is set to open their first mens shoe store in Mayfair, London on November 2nd it emerged today. Speaking to Vogue Founder Tamara Mellon said 'I want it to feel as though you are walking in a gentlemans club, with all the luxurious appointments and comforts' The store will spread over two floors and feature the A/W 11 collection including glittery loafers and embroidered slipper shoes.  With the upcoming trends revealed, I wonder if they'll stock my size?

Steal Her Style: Liv Tyler

Tess Daly was the latest celeb to don one of Stella McCartney's dotty designs on Sunday's Strictly come Dancing.  We've seen these daring black polka dot dresses with sheer paneling on a number of celebs this year, from Kate Winslet to Doutzen Kroes, but the one who wore it best is without a doubt Liv Tyler (above).

Whilst the dress has had more than it's fair share of the limelight, it's hardly suprising that it's appearing on our screens again, and with a price tag of around the £1500 mark it's not something us mere mortals could hope to snap up.

Well have no fear my fabulous fashionista's, I've found a high street alternative.  How i have only just noticed this is beyond me, but still, all's well that ends well, right?

Whilst I wont try and say its as perfect as the dress it is trying to imitate, it is pretty damn close.  You can get your hands on this structured piece from Warehouse and for only £60.  Well, what are you waiting for? Get clicking!

Christian and Tiffany

Tiffany & Co have today come to the aid of luxury shoe designer Christian Louboutin after it emerged last week that the footwear brand had launched an appeal after a judge rejected their injunction request to stop YSL releasing red soled shoes.

The argument falls leads back to YSL's decision to release shoes with the same colour sole that has made Louboutin's brand famous throughout the world after saying that the release of the former shoe would be damaging to his brand and that he had a trademark on the design.

Judge rejects Louboutins injunction request

After the judge rejected this injunction it was expected that a company such as Tiffany & Co would be bought into the mix as they too are associated the world over with another colour.  The American Jewellery and Silverware company filed their own brief stating that colours can be trademarked and shouldn't be allowed to be copied.

A decision is expected early in the spring 'considering what is at stake'

Look of the Week: Shailene Woodley

19 year old star Shailene Woodley this week stole the limelight for me at the London Film Festival.  The Decendants star wore this stunning dress by Christian Dior.

She opted to wear the strapless mini dress, with a beautifully embroidered mini dress and the shoes it was seen with during the A/W 2011 show.  Whilst the 19 year old actress may not be the biggest household name (although she was Coop's younger sister in the first series of the OC fyi!) with style like this, she is definitely one to watch out for.

Payday Purchase

Following my post Ten of the Best: Ankle Boots I noticed these gorgeous wedged red ankle boots from office.  Although they wouldn't fit in my post (they were over £100) I couldn't help but give them their own post as this weeks Payday Purchase.

The Utopia boots are exclusive to office by way of show designer Jeffrey Campbell, a designer known and loved by celebrities as far apart as Audrina Patridge and Rhianna.

At £125.00 they are not quite for those on a strict budget, but they're something I have to have regardless.  They caught my eye as their something I could see (my idol) Whitney Port wearing as she's known for her cute feminine outfits, but on second look they're perfect for punking up those tiny babydoll dresses or even wearing with skinny jeans and a leather jacket.

Versace for H&M is HERE

Whilst we may still have just over three weeks before we can all spend hours queuing overnight outside H&M stores, we can now plan just how many credit cards we need to apply for after Donatella Versace has released image of the collection she is releasing for the high street retailer.

Versace for H&M: Tuesday 21st June 2011

I literally cannot contain myself upon seeing these pictures, I am in love with the whole range!  Pieces vary from studded leather dresses that imitate those of the Italian fashion houses S/S 2012 collection, to skirts that replicate exactly why Gianni Versace's iconic pieces from the 80's and 90's.  i am without a doubt snapping up these pieces below, no matter what the cost.

Printed Silk Dress £79.99

Black Silk Dress £79.99

Red Dress £49.99

Gilet £39.99

Studded Leather Dress £179.99

I've got to go back to work yet, but have no fear, accessories to follow :) 

Look of the Week: Tulisa Contostavlos

She's come a long way from the tracksuit wearing 'chav' that we saw in videos such as 'Better Not Waste My Time' and 'I swear' and since joining the new X Factor line up earlier this year the 23 year old N Dubz star has even been hailed as a style icon. This week Tulisa Contostavlos showed exactly why she was deserving of that title.

Despite their being some harsh statements made about how the outfits of this years female judges, Tulsia Contostavlos and Kelly Rowlands', have not matched up to those of Cheryl and Danni of last year, it seemed that this week Tulisa was determined to turn those criticisms into praises when she met with her remaining two acts at the contestants mansion in Hertfordshire wearing this short, tight Peter Pan collared, french maid style dress.

If I had of seen this kind of dress in a store I would most likely take an instant dislike to it, thinking it would be more appropriate at a Halloween party of some other kind of fancy dress event, but with her gorgeous figure Tulisa is definitely on to a winner, teaming it with sky high black heels which accentuated her long pins and an elegant up do.

Whilst she may only have two acts left after Nu Vibe were voted out last week (yes I did vote, honestly they were crap) I'm keeping my fingers crosses that either The Risk or Rythmix win, I've even downloaded their songs from the lives show.  Between her remaining two acts and her stunning outfit choices (most of the time) Tulisa is what can only be described in the words of Charlie Sheen 'Winning'.

Ten of the Best: Ankle Boots

Whilst this season it may be the riding boots that are reining supreme, I cant deny that I am partial to the ankle boot, and by the looks of many a fashion publication right now, neither are the celebrities.  When you think about it, the ankle boot is the perfect style, it's ultra wearable and trans seasonal, and comes in so many different styles.

The main issue with this type of boot is what type to go for? Flat or heeled, buckled or laced, they look good with pretty much any outfit and can be worn at any event (imagine seeing your fashion icon walking down the red carpet in a pair of knee highs and high couture dress..you cant can you?).

Well look no further as I've spent the last few days looking for you, and here are the best ankle boots around - and all under £100.

1) Abe Ultimate Chelsea Boot - £62
2) Light Brown Platform Ankle Boots - £100
3) Black Lace Up Ankle Boots - £45
4) Lace Up Biker Boots - £27.99
5) Audio Gold Metal Heeled Boots - £75
6) Newflash Mustard Suede - £75
7) Black Casual Ankle Boots - £45
8) Dr Martens Lace Up Leather Lilac - £90
9) Lossa Suede Ankle Boots - £76
10) Alexandra Stud Cut Out Boots - £80

Fashion Faux Pas: Frankie Cocozza

We ll know how addicted I am to reality TV.  I literally have no time in my life to even get more than 6 hours sleep any night, but I make an exception for shows such as MIC, TOWIE and X Factor.  Not only do these shows entertain me as well as millions of others because we get to document weeks of other peoples lives, but the outfits are, to be honest, off the hook.

Whilst the contestants and judges are, in my opinion, a lot better than before, the outfits on the show have left a lot to be desired.  Cheryl & Danni had even had polls going about them.  Tulisa and Kelly may no doubt look stylish in a lot of their outfits, they hardly stand out for people like me to notice do they?

The same goes for the contestants.  Their make overs weren't dramatic, merely accentuating the features the wannabes already have.  Frankie Cocozza is another story.  As the first contestant of the competition he walked on with his cheeky demeanour with that indie hair and voice and his cute little smile so successfully that I wouldn't be surprised if Bieber himself was worried.

Personally I think that type of thing Frankie and Janet had going on is slightly overrated (there's only so much Adele-ness and Ed Sheeren-ess I can tolerate - it's like how amazing Barbours were before the chavs discovered cheaper alternatives!)  But on the plus side Frankie did have his own style that made him stand out.  Or so I thought until he strutted out onto the stage last week with his guyliner, big bangs and vile jewellery.

Now I'm not arsed about a guy wearing make up, a man bag or even women's underwear (I know but I think it''s cute) but that necklace, I feel violated having seen that on him last week, and again this week.  Gary goes on about how cheap Louis makes his acts look - but doesn't mind sending one of his own acts out wearing a necklace from Primark??

Payday Purchase

After the past 7 days of trawling through online retailers I have discovered a new way to use my credit card - ebay stores.  This week I found this gorgeous Mocha & Black combo dress on ebay store Guilty Conscience Clothing - a small seller that have a small but nice range of dresses, coats and handbags.

This dress is perfect for many an occasion due to its versatility, I myself would wear it to work with a nice tailored blazer and brogues, but could quite as easily see it being worn with a nice pair of shoe boots and box handbag on a night out and at less than £24 it wont break the bank.

Get it here Mocha & Black Sleeveless Dress

Chiffon Sleeveless Dress

Steal Her Style: Lydia Rose Bright

Just like many others in the UK, I have been gripped by the phenomenon that is Towie, despite my better judgement.  I mean lets face is, even Tom Ford referred to the show as culturally educating.  Yes I do love the gossip and the drama that goes on in their lives, but I also love the fashion - particularly the style of Lydia Rose Bright.

Having been quoted by various publications as the only one with true style on the show, she really outdid herself in last nights show, with this stunning red and black combo.  Whilst the rest of the girls adopt the 'less is more' approach when it comes to their personal style, Lydia is not afraid of high necklines and knee length dresses.

I've spent the day trawling with websites to find who she was wearing last night, all to no avail.  You can however get a similar look with these gorgeous pieces below.

1. Red Valentino Bow Embellished Coat £545
2. Carin Wester Pussy Bow Blouse was £130 now £65
3. Vivienne Westwood Asymmetric Pussy Bow Blouse  £285
4. Savillie Platform Shoe Boots £68
5. Faux Leather Skinny Trousers £32

Look of the Week: Blair Waldorf

*****SPOILER ALERT*****

Just a little warning, if you haven't yet seen Season 5 Episode 3 of Gossip Girl, then you might want to skip this post.

Whilst she may have disappointed us all by revealing that she is in fact carrying fiancee Louis baby and not Chucks (I'm still holding out hope for false DNA results), Blair Waldorf did the opposite when it came to this weeks wardrobe choices.

First up is this gorgeous blue floral dress with the black sash by none over than french power house Louis Vuitton (well she is technically marrying a French Prince).  Not so dissimilar from that which Claire Danes wore earlier on in the year to the SAG Awards (below).  The dress was short, feminine and totally Blair.  So stunning that after visiting Chuck to give him the not-so-good-news in it that he finally started to cry.

Next up is actually a Gossip Girl favourite - Jenny Packham.  Blair wore this stunning embellished grey dress from the Spring/Summer 2011 collection.  Those of you who have seen the episode cant deny that it looked better on Blair than on the runway....

On an extra note I this week found the writers of Gossip Girl on twitter (@GGWriters), so all together now, lets bombard them with tweets demanding baby Chair!!

Gucci Sweatshop Claims

A Gucci store in China has today come under fire as five employees of the Shenzhen store in the countries Guangdong Province wrote to the Italian brands senior executives via an open letter in Chinese newspaper The Global Times citing that employees had even suffered miscarriage due to the strain of working in the store. 


In the letter the listed around a hundred rules they had to adhere to, many of which, to be frank, are inhumane.  The list included rules such as having to stand up for 12 hours with a maximum of 5 minute toilet breaks and having to work until 3 am to do inventory - 5 hours after the store closing time.


Each of the 5 members of staff are seeking 100,00 yuan (almost £10,000) in unpaid overtime wages, whilst a spokesperson for Gucci has released a statement saying that 


'Gucci does not and will not endorse or tolerate the alleged malpractices' and 'Gucci has proactively engaged external consultants to conduct a comprehensive review to support ongoing actions that can enhance our organisational structure, the welfare and training of our people talent recruitment and retention and other business practices in China'


Seriously, between this, Frida Giannini stealing half of our models for LFW and the proposal that has convinced the rest of Milan and Paris to set their 2012 fashion week dates to clash with ours, remind me again why they are one of the most respected brands in the world??

Payday Purchase

So everyone by now will know how much I adore winter.  This week I found this gorgeous coat online on Matalan.  Not usually the kind of place I shop but after seeing a feature piece online on their coats I have to have a further look.

This Brown Collar Boucle coat is the perfect way to stay looking stylish throughout the colder months, and at only £40 it really is a steal.

Buy it here Matalan Brown Collar Boucle Coat

Miu Miu SS 2012

The penultimate show of Paris Fashion Week and indeed of all shows for Spring Summer 2012 was Miu Miu and what a show it was.

Oscar Wildes 'Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months' was taken quite literally here,with garments so hideous that they somehow became strikingly beautiful and forcing us to have to purchase to see who can pull it off best (hmm kind of like UGG's).

With hair to rival Jessie J and striking red eyelashes, this season Miu Miu put on a show of full a line skirts that were so high waisted the could have become rather odd boob tube dresses.

Model wore mules with heels that would have made McQueen proud and cute little swinging bags, this collection had a definite vampy feel about it, and with all the hype for the penultimate Twilight film being released next month, what better theme could have been chosen.

No doubt about it, the lace was the main feature of the show, with lace coats, skirts and dresses it will be a wonder if consumers aren't sick of it by the time the trend trickles down into the high street.

Once the overuse of lace was finally over we were introduced to some fun and energetic paneled prints.  let us not forget the strange cape/shrugs that came in all different colours and were tied with ribbon.  Whilst not particularly wearable there is a certain French/Little Red Riding Hood air to them.

Whilst this collection is definitely going to be a hard one to pull off, I can see it being a major hit with fashionistas the world over, because what's fashion if not to express ourselves?

Louis Vuitton SS 2012

With all the 'will he, wont he' debates going on concerning Marc Jacobs and Dior in the last few months, its not hard to say that Marc Jacobs is one of the most powerful men in the creative industry at the moment.  A statement that was cemented at the Louis Vuitton show this morning.

What could potentially be Jacobs last show if he were to move to Dior was an array of beautiful dresses of pastel pinks, greens and yellows with oversized doily collars (reminding me of Cinderella for some reason).  There was a definite late 50's/early 60's influence hear, the attitude of the clothes were carefree and could only be described as 'tidy and polite'.

Unlike most shows, the models here didn't walk down a runway, they strutted around a huge carousel (Chanel 2008 anyone?) carrying the statement handbags that Louis Vuitton is so well know for, with cute tiara's on top of their neatly done hair.

Most of the dresses were razor cut lace with added detailing such as applique flowers and feathers that were coloured deeper the further down the dress.  For the finale Kate Moss worked her way around the catwalk in an intricate white mini dress with a full volumised skirt and white pointed courts.  Whilst being slammed for smoking a cigarette on last years show, she personally requested to do the show, to which Jacobs replied 'Why not'.