New Year, New Me?

Making New Years resolutions is a tedious business with most of us using the same resolutions we have said for the past decade or so, namely - go to the gym more, give up smoking, stop biting my nails and so on and so forth. I prefer to be a bit more productive with mine. Yes the whole 'New Year, New Me' cliche is exactly that - a cliche, something about a New Year does make me feel excited and refreshed for the year ahead and therefore I can't help but resolve to make certain changes.

Whilst I try to avoid the aforementioned regular lines, I am only human and a desire to work out more and eat healthily are of course top of my list. With regards to the rest however, I've chosen to make changes that I will actually stick to an does that are both easy and fun. 

1) Look after my skin more. As I've got older I've realised that you can't trust the cosmetics industry at all.  I mean yes Creme De La Mere is better than Nivea but when it really comes down to it how many of us really know what we are putting on our skin. If you go to any company they are going to tell you why their product is better than their competitors because that is what they are paid to do. Going to a dermalogatist will be more beneficial in the long run as you can not only determine what products you should be using but also what kind of treatments you should be getting. 

2) Learn how to do make up. An extension of number 1 sure but not many of us realise that the make up we are using is totally wrong for us. I've always thought my make up bag was a pretty good mix, it's only now however that I realise that each counter I have visited are completely bias and, when all is said and done, the staff are only there to sell me a product. I also tend to go for products that beauty  editors have recommended, despite the fact that my entire dissertation was on the fact that these reviews are paid for.  Instead I vow to stick to beauty blogs and personal recommendations as that's the only way we, as consumers, will get an honest product review.

3) Live Healthily. If I'm honest I have always been prone to fad dieting - The Maple Syrup Cleanse, 5:2, No Carbs, if it's a fad then I have tried it. This past year , however, has seen me introduced to different superfoods and I've realised that instead of dieting it honestly just is better to change a lifestyle and eat a balanced diet (I sound like an oldie don't I).

So there we have it. My intentions for the upcoming year, I'd like to say I'll regularly update with my progress but we all know that I can get easily sidetracked and distracted with my work and probably only post sporadically....hmm maybe there is another resolution in that...

Christmas Gift Ideas: Day 21

A bathrobe is something that is easy to get wrong - we've all seen the cheap fleece versions from Primark and the like. For something more luxurious, try The White Company, with prices starting from £50 and matching his and hers sets as well as beautifully minimalistic gift wrapping, it's a present you can't go wrong with.

Look of the Week: Anne Hathaway

With the premieres of both Les Mis and On The Road this week, the red carpet outfits from the films leading ladies have had my fashion tongue wagging. Picking just one look to publish was hard but in the end Nina Ricci reigned supreme with this gorgeous gold embellished dress as worn by the gorgeous Anne Hathaway who was supporting co star Hugh Jackman at the Museum of Moving Image.

Teamed with simple Stella McCartney strappy sandals and soft makeup softened Anne's appearance in wake of her new haircut (in aid of her role) and was in stark contrast to her vampish look the night before.

Look of the Week: Amber Valletta

Former supermodel Amber Valletta is going from strength to strength this week. Not only has she appeared back on our screens on Revenge and been named the face of H&M's 2014 Concious Collection, but the star has also featured on many of this weeks best dressed lists after attending The Hollywood Reporters 22nd Annual Women in Entertainment Breakfast. 

The star wore a stunning Jason Wu top and skirt. Keeping her monochrome look simple with slick back hair and red lipstick she finished the look with some patent black shoe boots and a box clutch.

H&M find another concious Super!

Despite them being the second largest retailer in the world, fast fashion isn't always the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name H&M. Ahead of this you are likely to think designer collaboration, celebrity ad campaigns and -more recently - sustainable fashion. 

The brand have made no secret of their desire to see all of their clothes be made from recycled and Eco friendly fabrics in the near future. They recently launched an initiative whereby shoppers can exchange a bag of old clothes for a £5 voucher and also had Vanessa Paradis launch their 'Concious Collection' - a range made entirely from materials such as organic cotton and tencel - before launching their 'Concious Exclusive Collection' with a similar selling point but with a slightly higher price point and much better, higher fashion pieces. 

Now it seems the retailer have no intention of slowing down their plans an have now tapped supermodel and actress Amber Valletta to front the latest collection. The model stated she is 'honored' to face both collections and that 'it's wonderful to represent a company that matches my values and it's exciting to be able to collaborate in this way'.

The collection will launch in certain stores on April 10th 2014 and whilst the looks are still under wraps, you can view some behind the scenes footage on YouTube now.

If you can't eat it, wear it

 

Last week rap legend Jay Z announced via his website that he was embarkingon a 22 day vegan challenge, citinghis reason as a 'spiritual and physical cleanse', with a rather interesting footnote of 'P.S. B is joining me'. We know from past experience that Queen Bey is partial to a cleanse (shemade the Maple Syrup diet' massive after using it to lose weight before shooting Dreamgirls) but after recent wardrobe choices it might seem that this is one she isn't crazy about.

At first the singer seemed to have a sense of humour about this latest endeavor when she was seen out wear a pizza motif outfit, complete with pepperoni adorned pants, funny right? Over the last few days, however, instead of the initial praise from the vegan community she seems to have angered them and has even been labelled a hypocrite after not only stepping out in a Christopher Kane fox fur coat but then attending lunch at a vegan restaurant wearing a Givenchy cow hide sweater and leather trousers. We can't help but wondering if she has recently hired Lady Gaga's stylist?
 

Christmas Gift Ideas: Day Nine

I love a good novelty phone case. Gone are the days when we all had different phones, ranging from Nokia's to Samsung and Motorola to Siemans. Today pretty much the majority of us have an iPhone. A good phone case is therefore ideal to distinguish your phone from a coffee table full of iPhones on Christmas Day.

Normally, I favour Marc Jacobs for my iPhone accessories (Miss Marc and Shorty are my favourites) but the new Moschino range are too irresistible to miss out on. This Violetta rabbit case is the best of the lot. Priced at £45 you can buy it now on Net-a-Porter. 

Look of the Week: Naomie Harris

Whilst the 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom' London was a bittersweet affair this week (it showed the same day the former South African president passed away). Despite this, Naomie Harris - who stars as Winnie Mandela in the biopic - still managed to wow crowds in this strapless black Alexander McQueen gown. 

The simplistic nature of the dress was accented perfectly by the embellished peplum which negated the need for accessories and allowed the actress to keep her make up minimum without running the risk of looking too plain. 

Christmas Gift Ideas: Day Eight

I've mentioned briefly before my preference for a Sunday night spent pampering before the harsh realities of a Monday morning rear their ugly heads. This next suggestion will therefore appeal to many girls like myself who reserve that one night for some 'me' time. 

Of course, Jo Malone candles would be ideal however, I myself would begrudge burning it and find them too decorative to actually use. White Company candles offer the perfect alternative. Slightly cheaper ( prices start from £18 ) than Jo Malone but by no means less fragrant. My favourite by far is Seychelles, featuring notes of Orange, Amber, Vanilla an Almond it is the perfect scent to get you in the mood for summer after a chaotic festive period. 

Christmas Gift Ideas: Day Seven

Today's gift idea comes in the form of some of the cutest jewelley out there at the moment. Whilst we have all become accustomed to wearing bulky statement jewellery over the last few years, Estella Bartlett offers us a range more simple accessories which, whilst aren't as in your face as the costume pieces currently available in droves on the high street, is just as attention grabbing but are also personal to each wearer due to the simple statement noted on the packaging, such as 'you me ou I' or 'shine bright like a diamond'. Prices start from just £15 and you can be sure that any girl you buy for will love the thoughtfulness of such a simple gift. 

Visit www.estellabartlett.co.uk to order yours in time for Christmas. 

Christmas Gift Idea's: Day Six

You should never underestimate the importance of a good diary and there is nothing in your life that is more handy than having the right one.  I don't understand people who use their phones for everything, I mean, yes an iPhone calender is a good tool for noting shifts and so on, but what happens when your battery dies?  Anyway, I digress. When it comes to diaries no one does them better than Smythson.  Yes they are a little on the pricey side, but for me, something as personal as a Smythson diary shows how much thought has been put into a gift, and with matching notebooks and pens, they are any career girls ideal present. My favourite is the aptly named Fashion Diary in Fuschia.

Christmas Gift Idea's: Day Five

Something every girls needs for Christmas that she will undoubtedly get from one of the men in her life is perfume, so if your said man, please make sure you choose the right one.  Si is the latest fragrance from Giorgio Armani, 'my tribute to modern femininity, an irresistible combination of grace, strength and independent spirit' according to the man himself.  I won't pretend to be a perfume expert, but this scent is the perfect balance between sweet and musky and more importantly - it lasts all day.

Steal her Style: Poppy Delevingne

She may not be the biggest headlining Delevingne, but it would serve us all well to remember that Cara's big sis Poppy has actually been on the scene a lot longer than the Burberry model and, let's face it, she is just as stylish than her younger counterpart.

Whilst Cara's style screams attention seeker just like her behaviour, Poppy has somewhat of a more casual yet sophisticated style something that she proved perfectly when stepping out earlier this week in this blazer, courtesy of H&M.  What's that you ask?  A model and socialite of this calibre in a high street brand?  Why yes my lovelies, even the wealthy fashionista loves a bargain, but then again at £34.99 who wouldn't?

Christmas Gift Ideas: Day Four

For me, I love nothing more than a Sunday night. Bubble bath, face mask and a fresh coat of nail varnish to see me through the week. As any girl knows - the best nail varnish comes in the form of a Chanel limited edition. Every year the brand release a number of exclusive colours, and this year they came in the form of these two Nuit Magique colours. 

The two colours emulate what most of us look for in winter colours. The blue 'magic' represents the sky as we see more of it in the winter months and 'Cosmic' is an expanse of the ever popular black we all know and love, this time featuring accents of blue and silver. What's not to love?

Here comes the bride, again

 

Whilst most of us are agonising over what to wear at our Christmas party and shopping for a new frock for fear of our colleagues recognising our outfit, there is one Hollywood star who doesn't seem to share our woes - Keira Knightly. The Pirates of the Caribbean actress has stepped out yet again wearing her favourite Chanel gown, the same one that she wore to her wedding earlier this year and to a pre BAFTA bash way before that in 2008.  Well, as they say 'If it aint broke why fix it'.

Christmas Gift Ideas: Day Three

I'll admit, despite their having been around for two years now, I've still not yet bought into the onesie hype. The main reason had, I think, lied with the notoriety the garment gained after Towie star Joey Essex revealed his love for them. If there ever is a time to wear a onesie, however, then Christmas is it. 

Every girl loves new pyjamas for Christmas and if you're going to spend your money, then why not spend it on something as festive as these? The Fairisle print onesie from Asos is £45.

Christmas Gift Ideas: Day Two

Let's face it, none of us exactly enjoy washing up but with this Ryan Gosling tea towel from prezzybox.com it might not be a task that all of us dread. The recycled tea towel, priced only at £9.95, features three images if the Hollywood Hunk, 'Classic Ryan', 'Hipster Ryan' and 'Charmer Ryan' and even features it's very own 'Hey Girl' sentence at the top. We'll be honest, I wouldn't want to ruin it by drying my dishes with his face but it certainly would look nice in the kitchen. 

Christmas Gift Ideas: Day One

December is a great month for everyone. Not only is the end of the month two log weeks of food, family and celebration but it is the one month of the year we can shop without feeling guilty. Everyday this month I'll be posting my favourite shopping treats and gift ideas. 

First up it this a novelty Gingerbread Man jumper from Topshop. Everyone loves a Christmas jumper and this one is quite possibly the best I have ever seen. Retailing at £42 it's more than you might usually spend on a jumper you can only wear one month a year, but when a jumper is this good, how can you resist? 

War of the Christmas Ads

For me, there's nothing that starts off the festive period like an appearance of a Christmas Advert.  Whilst the likes of Marks & Spencer have been producing big budget adverts for a few years now, for most brands I can barely remember anything further back than last year (and that's only because we spoke about the John Lewis one in a lecture).  This year however, we seem to be inundated with the big companies trying to outdo each other, but who did it best?

1.  Marks & Spencer

In our family, it's hard to beat the M&S advert (who can forget 2007's 'Christmas Belles'?) and this year has proved to be no exception.  Feauturing two of the most insanely beautiful models on the planet, this years advert has a tagline of 'Believe in Magic and Sparkles' and brilliantly emulates a few of the best fairytales of our time - firstly my personal favourite of Alice in Wonderland then Aladdin, Little Red Riding Hood and finally moving on to The Wizard of Oz when we see the best part of the advert - Helena Bonham Carter.  The advert invokes not only that nostalgia we all love to experience during the festive season but also offers us that sense of aspiration that all adverts are meant to provoke in their audience.  'Believe in Magic and Sparkles'?  Well it's hard not too with an advert as perfect as this.


2. John Lewis

A John Lewis spokesman recently said that when planning their Christmas Adverts they like to 'connect emotionally' with their audience.  Whilst I'm not the biggest fan of their adverts I can see that this is a valid statement by looking back over previous ads bought to us from the company (2011's advert of the little boy giving his parents a present is a great example of this).  This year however I just didn't get this advert.  The had all the right components for a great Christmas ad;  Lily Allen making a comeback and singing a Keane cover, Disney animators who bought us the likes of The Lion King and an unlikely friendship between a Bear and a Hare, but somehow this still went wrong.  It seemed wrong to me that they spent £7 million on animators just to add in real life gifts (yes I know they need to advertise but it looked odd) and barring the fact that there was a Christmas Tree in the advert, it doesn't make me feel festive at all.

3. Tesco

Tesco's went for the familial angle this year by showing us a collection of home made movies over a number of decades.  We see a young couple through various stages of their relationship, from their first Christmas together, to Christmas with their children with the grandparents, to the children growing up and the young couple becoming the grandparents.  It featured a number of situations we all experience on the day, the excitement of opening our presents, rowing with our parents and of course, celebrating with those we love most, because that is, afterall what Christmas is all about.

4. Harvey Nichols

 

 

Harvey Nichols have used tongue in cheek humour to not only capture our attention this year, but also to promote a new line hitting the stores.  'I Spent It On Myself' is a situation that all of us can relate too, that dreadful feeling when you splurge on yourself knowing you have other to buy for.  To counteract any of us ever having to feel like this again, the brand have come up with a new line of gifts including elastic bands, toothpicks and a sink plug.  Well, as said by one of the self spurgers in the ad, at least you can challenge the recipient as to if anyone else got them a gift from Harvey Nic's.

 

Whilst I have to admit that the M&S is my favourite of those above, there is still no one who can quite contend with the classic Coca-Cola advert.  After all, it really isn't Christmas until you have seen it on your screen.

 

 

 



Look of the Week: Miranda Kerr

 

She may have been visibly missing from this years Victoria's Secret show,  but former Angel Miranda Kerr seemed to not be too perturbed compared to the rest of us when she stepped out in Tokyo in a stunning monochrome Michael Kors gown and Bulgari diamonds.  Nor would you notice she'd recently announced a split with her husband of three years with a smile that would dazzle any.  If only the rest of us could handle our problems with our head held so high.

Payday Purchase

I've never been a big fan of trainers. The last pair I bought were a pair of black and pink Lacoste trainers about 8 years ago (they were fashionable then, I swear), I threw them away earlier this year when I discovered them in their box, never worn.  Minus the odd pair of converse of Superga - which in my eyes don't count as trainers, more of a comfort shoe- I've steered clear of any kind of footwear which I could see my brothers wearing.  I've never even been a frequent enough gym goer that I would require anything other than the battered old new balance my sister gave me when I first moved up north (five years ago).

Step foot into Foot Asylum earlier this week however, and I'm in love.  Not only did I end up leaving with a pair of New Balance for day to day wear but I also spotted these beauties out of the corner of my eye.  Trying them on, they're honestly some of the most comfortable things I've ever put on my feet, they don't feel heavy like I remember trainers from back when I was younger and you can feel the weightlessness when you walk.  If, like me, you're going to the gym to help you get into that Christmas party dress, then do it in style with the Nike Free 5.0 Print Trainer, also available in pink.

World Premiere- The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Despite my opinion last week regarding Jennifer Lawrence's new haircut it seems the actress has actually made her crop work for her, showing Miley just exactly how you pull off super short, super blonde hair.  The star stepped out in London with a stunning white Christian Dior (obviously) gown, complete with a mega sequinned skirt and black pointed courts.  Simple yet effective.

My personal favourite of the night, however, had to be Elizabeth Banks in a stunning canary yellow Jason Wu dress, proving that you don't have to be a brunette to pull off such a bright colour.

Lady Gaga teams with US H&M

Lady Gaga will team with US chains of H&M for the release if her Artpop album, released today. The album will be carried in 175 of the retailers US stores and will sell for $9.95 and won't be replenished once sold out - although these sales won't count towards Billboard sales as H&M don't report sales to Nielson Soundscan (the company who track music sales for the Billboard chart).  If that wasn't enough, Gaga herself will be in hand to help H&M open their new Times Square store on Nov 14th. 

Monaco's Princess Graces the cover of Tatler

It's been over 30 years since her death, but it seems as though Grace Kelly is still as captivating as ever. I rarely buy a copy of Tatler, preferring the prose of the likes of Vogue and Elle, however, seeing the actress turned princess on the cover of the December issue was enough to garner my attention and prompt me to buy to read the accompanying article. 

With her biographical movie, simply titled Grace of Monaco, with Nicole Kidman in the titular role as well as being directed by Olivier Dahan (the man who bought us La Vie En Rose), set to be released in early 2014, interest in one of Hollywoods most elegant stars is about to be renewed in a way which it perhaps never was before.

Look of the Week: Mollie King

Looking better than I have ever seen her, and pretty much unrecognisable at that, this weeks best dressed is none other than The Saturdays singer Mollie King. Dressed in Gucci, the blonde beauty attended the Harpers Bazaar Woman of the Year event in London earlier this week. Her coiffed up do and nude make up transformed her usually girly look into something more mature, whilst a mesh panelled top offered a daring edge to the outfit. 

Top of the Crops

With Beyoncé, Karlie Kloss and Miley Cyrus all cutting their tresses this year, it's fair to say that shorter hair is once again in vogue.  I myself opted to have a few inches snipped off along with a new fringe (inspired by Karlie, actually), but for some (namely Miley) it seems like they took it just a step too far.

Case in point, our two favourite Jennifer's have this week taken to the hairdressers seat and had debuted shorter do's, one looks great, the other not so much.  The problem with shorter hair, and I think most will agree, is that they usually make the wearer look older (the shorter - the older in my opinion)  Not a problem if you're Jen An of course - the woman is in her 40's and still looks better than most of us in our 20's- and let's be realistic, she is the QUEEN of the bob (or is it again now 'The Rachel?). J Law on the other hand, well let's just say I'm not a fan, the cut is too sharp, too 90's and just generally wrong for her face shape.  With the world premiere of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire finally creeping up on us, lets just hope she gets a good stylist.

H&M Ladies Day

This half term has been a rough one, it doesn't help that we have had some of the worst weather this country has seen for a while.  What better way to recharge than with a little retail therapy and a pamper, courtesy of H&M.

The brand have this week launched their 'By Night' range (above) - a selection of partywear that was exclusively launched in this months Vogue.  In addition, 12 of the brands stores will this Friday pay host to a VIP ladies day, meaning that not only can you recieve 20% off of your favourite ladies wear pieces, but you can also have your hair styled by Toni and Guy stylists and recieve a mini mani upon production of a recipt valid for that date.  DJ's will also be playing sets between 9am and 8pm.

Participating Stores:
St Pauls, London
The Strand, London
Lakeside, Kent
Cabbotts Circus, Bristol
Bentall, Kingstone
Touchwood, Solihull
Bullring, Birmingham
Leeds, Briggatte
The Trafford Centre, Manchester
St Davids Centre, Cardiff
King St, Dublin
Buchanan Galleries, Glasgow
 

 

Steal her Style: Tamera Foster

 

Admittedly I'm not the biggest X Factor fan, but on the odd occasion I have watched this season I've continuously been in awe of the dresses worn by series favourite Tamera Foster.  Already my manager has had me use the internet to her advantage to find where the red a symmetric dress was from for her to wear to our Christmas party.  This week I appear to have found my outfit choice for the festive season.

 

For last nights performance the 16 years old belted out a brilliant version of Beyoncé's 'Listen' (nothing compared to Alexandra Burke's but a solid attempt none the less), and the only thing on the show better than her performance was her wardrobe.

 

It's a little known fact that stylist prefer not to style the contestants in designer labels (less for Nicole to compete with) which means that finding out where the singers outfits are from can prove trying at times.  Last nights sequin maxi dress was no exception, but there was no way I expected to find something this stunning from a retailer like River Island. Priced at £125 it's one that you can bet not everyone will be wearing and you are sure to have the desired head turning effect that one would desire to stand out from the crowd at a festive work function.

 

 

H&M host Isabel Marant party in Paris

Whilst it's launch may still be over two weeks away, the folks at H&M decided to drive us further into a Marant frenzy by hosting a launch party for the collaboration in Paris.  Attended by the likes of January Jones, Fieda Pinto and Audrey Tatou, the party was a far cry from previous launches hosted by the brand with the designer herself stating “We wanted to present the collection in a way that felt real and casual, not a red carpet extravaganza: this is how I see my work. I design for everyone".

Whilst the stars in attendance could hardly be deemed normal people, it certainly was nice to see the clothes finally styled on someone other than the heavily photoshopped models who appear in the campaign.  Slumdog Millionaire star Frieda worked the geometric look by teaming the embellished trophy jacket with a printed skirt whilst French actress Audrey Tatou layered the grey wool mix coat over the ankle grazers, representing the brands androgynous aesthetic perfectly. 

Look of the Week: Natalie Portman

 

 

Natalie Portman is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful women on the planet.  Whilst she has remained relatively away from the spotlight of late, her promotional tour for the new Thor movie is proving that she will always remain on of our firm fashion favourites.  Sporting a shorter cut than normal, the mother of one took to the red carpet of the Paris premiere in this stunning Christian Dior number.  No surprise there considering the actress is currently the face of the Miss Dior fragrance.

Look of the Week: Rooney Mara

You've got to envy this girl.  She has gone from uber girly with gorgeous long brown hair to feminine goth and still managed to be better dressed than many of her a list counterparts.  This Proenza Schouler dress is one of the best wardrobe choices I have ever seen Rooney Mara wear, she hits a number of trends in one, the skirt length, a hint of midriff and an overall look that manages to be both gothic and romantic.  Finished perfectly with Brian Atwood peeptoes.

Wear the trend: Pink Coats

Everyone knows that the pink coat is the must have item this season.  Shown this season by the likes of Carven, it wasn't too long before stores such as Zara had replicated the look with their own (much lower) price tag.  Choosing the right kind of winter coat is hard enough work as it is (bare in mind it is the only part of your outfit most people will see!) and considering that a coat like this is barely going to see you through to next season then it's more important than ever to pick the right one.  Here's my top 5 from the high street.

1) Wool coat £79.99 - H&M

2) Mil £99.00 - Marks and Spencer

3) Masculine studio overcoat £179.00 - Zara

4) Lacy coat £239 - Hobbs

5) Neon boucle coat £250 - Boutique by Jaeger

Fringespiration

 

So, for those who follow me on Instagram and Twitter (myfashionbox), you'll know that last week I decided (on a whim) to have a fringe cut for Vogue's Fashion Night Out - after all, if you are going to make a hair statement, what better event to do it for right?

It's been less than a weeks since I opted to get bangs, every time I get them I have a vision of what I want it to look like (this time it was Jessica Biel) and it very rarely turns out like that and I am instead left trawling through countless celebrity hairstyle images to gain an idea on how to style my fringe. I know that I'm not the only girl to do this, hence the reason behind what you're now reading.  My fringespiration (in no particular order)...

1.Zoe Deschanel

 I don't care who you are, any female (or male) on this earth who says they don't fancy something about Zoe Deschanel is a liar, be it her style, nails or those to die for bangs, she has it all going on.  She's one of those lucky people who can still carry of any hair style with her fringe and it's makes us completely lustful.

 

2.  Sienna Miller

Another who looks beyond gorgeous with a fringe is British model and actress Sienna Miller.  Wearing hers with an updo and a few strands left down to frame the face, this is a style that most of us can imitate with ease, and is perfect for those early mornings when you are left with little time left to style.

 

3. Lily Collins

We all know having a fringe can be high maintenance,  another simple but effective way to style yours is demonstrated here by Lily Collins, a simple 'half up, half down' style, add in a few loose waves and you're good to go.

 

4. Leighton Meester

 

If, like me, you have fine hair, you might find having a fringe somewhat challenging.  Take notes from style icon Leighton Meester and add some curls to the length of your hair to give the appearance of volume and texture.

 

5. Heidi Klum

 

As one of the original supers, everything Heidi Klum does is fabulous.  This look though, tops them all.  Sweeping her hair into a side parting and adding some Old Hollywood curls, this look is the epitome of glamour.

6.  Cheryl Cole

It's very rare that I add Cheryl Cole to any kind of list of my favourite things, yet here she is.  I'm partial to a ponytail and I like the way that Cheryl's softly parted her fringe down the middle to frame her face.

 

7.  Rooney Mara

For someone like me, this look is totally unachievable. You have to have the right kind of look to pull off a fringe like this and Rooney Mara definitely has that Je ne sais quoi.

 

 

 



Ghesquire at Louis Vuitton

The fashion industry loves nothing if not a good gossip and the rumour mill yet again went into overdrive yesterday when an Australian magazine seemingly broke the news that Ghesquire was 'officially' to take the reigns at Louis Vuitton.  It didn't take long before the worlds press headed into a frenzy and the news became a global news story.

If you think about it logically, there is nothing about this story that doesn't make sense.  Ghesquire has been out of work - so to speak- for the past 10 months since leaving Kering owned Balenciaga, he is one of the most celebrated designers in the world and Louis Vuitton are one of the most celebrated brands in the world.  What's not to love about this decision??

Sadly for us Ghesquire-Louis fans however, Louis Vuitton put paid to the rumours by telling WWD that 'nothing has been decided'.  Although, before we all go and get downhearted about this most recent announcement, it is worth noting that they have only quashed rumours on the appointment - not that the fact that a deal is being reached.  Watch this space.

Look of the Week: Clemence Posey

There isn't much about Clemence Posey I don't adore, there isn't much about Erdem I don't adore.  Put the French actress in a design by the Canadian designer and you have a winning combination.  Clemence oozes feminine elegance and a dress by Erdem perfectly accentuates that, in a way, she is the exact kind of women who the brand aim to have wear the dresses.  Perfectly teamed with Louis Vuitton pumps, a Valentino clutch and a messy side braid.

Vogue's Fashion Night Out Guide

It's finally here, tonight is the night that Vogue's Fashion Night Out finally arrives in Manchester. Situated mainly around Market Street and the surrounding areas (The Trafford Centre are holding certain events, namely in Forever 21 and Next) there are going to be some of the fashion industries best and brightest attending the event that YOU get to attend. Whilst Hugo Boss are hosting an exclusive party which Alexander Shulman herself is attending, Below is a list of what certain stores are doing in honour of the event.

* For those who have purchased a FNO tee, Roskanda Ilincic will be customising them in Harvey Nichols (who are celebrating their tenth anniversary). If you've not bought a tee then their is a booth in Spinningfields where you can purchase them

* Vogue Eats will be serving cupcakes, Pizza and Hot Chocolate for those who're feeling a little peckish

* Mulberry will be offering Essie Manicures

* Manchester Art Gallery will be exhibiting an array of costumes through the ages as well as a talk 'What is fashion'

* Emma Elwick Bates will be on hand at H&M to offer fashion and styling advice

* Test your strength at Hermes with a game of tug of war or a participate in a game of bowling

* Have your photo taken in a cover shoot at Manchester Arndale

* Get your hair done by Trevor Sorbie himself in Reiss

* Vogue's health and beauty director Nicola Moultin will be giving tips on this seasons beauty trends in Selfridges

* Manchesters very own Matthew Williamson will be in Flannels

* Kurt Geiger will be holding a competition in which the lucky winner stands to win a year supply of shoes

See you there!

Jimmy Who?

Tamara Mellon may not be a household name for many people, but for those of us in the know, she is literally one of the most important people in fashion.  The women who spent 15 years at the helm of one of the worlds greatest luxury footwear labels - Jimmy Choo, (she stepped down from her role in 2011) has never made it a secret that she and co founder Jimmy Choo weren't exactly the best business partners the world has ever seen, but now she has gone one step further by revealing details of their working relationship in her new autobiography 'In My Shoes'.

So far as the public are concerned, Jimmy Choo himself designed the shoes, as well as lending his name to the brand and Tamara was the women who built the brand into the global powerhouse that it now is right? Wrong.  In an interview on the Today shoe, the 46 year old made the confusing statement that the Malaysian Choo never actually designed anything for the brand.  “The original idea was for Jimmy to design the collection and I would run the operations of the business, but it soon became very clear that Jimmy’s skill was in making shoes. He’s a cobbler.” She then went on to say she turned to the 'cobblers' niece and together they sketched a range of Mellon's original ideas from inspiration gained from places such as Portabello Market.

In all fairness, Choo himself has not been a part of the brand for over ten years now, but the fact that the man the company is named after never actually had a hand in pretty much anything to do with making the brand what it is kind of makes the whole seem a little fraudulent, right?

Look of the Week: Chloe Grace Moretz

This girl never fails to stun me. Barely 16 and not only does she have an impressive list of movies under her belt but she undeniably has one of the hottest wardrobes in Hollywood.

This week the young actress stepped out with fellow Carrie co star Julianne Moore (who is the latest actress to be immortalised on the Hollywood Walk of Fame) in this gorgeous pink brocade dress by Dolce & Gabbana.  Clearly not afraid to mix it up she finished off the look with a pair of red Jimmy Choo shoes, yes that's right - red. You know what, it works!

Marc Departs...

It's been touted as 'the best show of his career' and it has now been officially announced that the Louis Vuitton show at the Cour Carree of the Louvre is set to be Jacob's last with the French fashion house.  The show featured aspects from a number of the designers best shows during his time at Louis Vuitton such as the carrousel, escalators and French maids, to name a few.

Jacobs and LVMH chairman Bernard Arnault confirmed this morning that the American designer would be stepping down from his role of 16 years in order to focus on his eponymous line.  The departure will signify a huge change for the brand (perhaps 'loss' is a better word?') as it was Jacobs who introduced the first RTW line with the brand and has made it into the global powerhouse that it now is.  His tenure at Louis Vuitton is bested only by Lagerfeld who has remained director at Chanel for 30 years. 

Jacobs launched the Marc Jacobs line in 1993 whilst at Parson and both himself and LVMH own a third (the other third being owned by business partner Robert Duffy) and it is expected to make its IPO within the next few years.  The brand, which also has diffusion line Marc by Marc Jacobs, launched its first beauty range earlier this year exclusively on Sephora and it is rumoured that he plans to focus harder on his accessories range after seeing how successful competitor Michael Kors has been with his watches in the past few years/

Whilst we'll miss Jacobs at LV, we can't help but consider who will step forward to replace him...

 

LFW: Burberry Prorsum

Fashion doesn't get much more British than Burberry, apt then, that the theme of the SS14 Burberry Prorsum collection was 'English Rose'.  A much more relaxed offering than normal, the collection began with a range of pencil skirt/shirt combos in pastel shades of pink, lilac, blue and green and in laser cut detail.  The whole mood of the show was, to begin with, calm and understated, with only slight hints of high end fashion visible in the form of the high splits in front of skirt and the obvious need to leave the lining of garments on the atelier floor.  Models wore cashmere sweaters in shades of grey and white before we were introduced to this years equivalent of the hearts - big polka dots.  Let us not forget the iconic trench, this season worn loose and oversized.

All very un-Burberry as compared to the past few seasons, that is until the final segment of the show where the garments came out adorned by sparkly brooches - dresses were held up by one strap of them, skirts were all but made from them and even Cara's rain coat was made entirely unsuitable for its main purpose by them.  Well, they do say save the best till last.

See the gallery on our Facebook page.

LFW: Christopher Kane

 

'If I do flowers, I don't want them to be like everyone else's'  Christopher Kane said backstage at his SS14 collection today entitled 'The anatomy of a flower'.  Instead of floral prints or simple pastel shades Kane instead dress inspiration from the kind of botanical plant drawings one finds in a biology lab, something evident in the petal cut out details on many of his dresses.

Well known for his avante garde choices when designing, this collection, Kane managed to retain originality and, although we saw white, there was no hint of the monochrome palette or 70's theme we have seen over so many catwalks this past two weeks.  There were pleats aplenty and silk trims were added to sheer skirts (my favourite particular look was this ballerina inspired dress - above) as well as basic sweaters teamed with full length ballerina skirts - who would have thought that would be such a winning combination.

View the gallery on our Facebook Page.

LFW: Erdem

 

Erdem, a designer whose name has become synonymous with ladylike frocks and pretty floral prints shook it up at his Spring Summer 2014 show earlier today with a completely monochrome offering. Gliding down the runway to the tune of a grand piano models donned a selection of garments edgier than we have come to expect from the Canadian born designer which, although underwhelming to begin with, soon reminded us exactly what it is we love about the brand.

The collection featured a range of sheath dresses with feather trims, sheer separates, constructed dresses and my personal favourite of a midlength shirt dress finished with a black vest, we were even treated to ladylike biker jackets - who knew there was such a thing!

See the collection on our Facebook page.