London Fashion Week – House Of Holland
September 27, 2010 by Ceri ·
House of Holland has become a firm favourite amongst Brits for its fun but wearable women’s dresses, clothes and accessories. They are young and fresh with a hint of that quirky British style. Henry Holland manages to portray his fun personality through his label which has earned itself a reputation for having a bit of a laugh with fashion. Henry Holland is best mates with Agyness Deyne so you know that he will never be short of celebrity mates to turn up to his shows at London Fashion Week. This year there was Agyness (of course) along with Amber Rose, Lily Allen, Nicola Roberts, Pixie Geldolf and even Kerry Katona.
The clothes shown on the catwalk at the House of Holland show were both fun and frivolous but also incredibly wearable. There were shirts and women’s dresses were adorned with tassels and leather stars, there were also leather pleated skirts, evening dresses, body con dresses and pom pom earrings and accessories. The collection also contained mini metallic leather biker jackets. The look most definitely had a touch of the seventies about it with purples, greens and pinks giving it a colourful feel. It was old school glamour, disco and a touch of New York all rolled into one.
Some of the most noticeable pieces of the collection were the pink and lilac pleated dresses, the sparkly star t shirts and patterned shirts, asymmetric body con dresses worn with knee socks and the green leaf print all in one.
Of course for most of us spring summer 2011, seems like a long way away. Henry Holland’s summer collection would not be warm enough for the the cold autumnal weather that we are about to experience. But don’t worry if you are a big fan of the designer, you can get your fix by checking out the H! by Henry Holland collection at Debenhams. The autumn winter collection contains plenty of warm but fun and stylish clothes including a grey sweatshirt with floral applique writing, an iconic camel coat and some slogan t shirts.
The collection combines amazing value for money with fresh. fun, fashion. There are also plenty of floral, checks and tartans all patterns that are starting to become a real part of the Henry Holland signature.
This multi coloured lip print dress by Henry Holland is striking, colourful and quirky. It is also an incredibly soft piece of knitwear making it extra comfortable. For a super casual look try combining it with a pair of work boots. If you want to keep your legs a little warmer just add some woolley socks.
This khaki draped sleeve maxi dress is a great combination of simplicity and on trend style. The glamour of the maxi dress style combined with the more casual khaki colour make it ideal for both the daytime and evening.
Another fun look is this black dice jumper dress. It is stretchy and comfortable and clings in all of the right places. It has a flattering v neck and elasticised cuffs and hems to help it keep its beautiful shape.
This lilac floral dress is pretty but also very sophisticated with its corset style bodice. Try wearing it with a biker jacket for a rock chic look.
Estethica – Ethical Fashion For Spring Summer 2011
September 17, 2010 by Ceri ·
Ethical and Eco fashion now goes well beyond the organic cotton dress or Fair trade cotton t shirt. As London Fashion Week draws closer, there is an ever growing interest in the Estethica section which includes the ethical fashion labels. The interest in ethical fashion has been slowly increasing with each piece of news in the media that highlights unethical manufacturing in the clothes industry. A new generation of designers have emerged showing that ethical fashion in not only stylish and on trend but innovative and exciting. Designers are now getting really creative with styles from shift dresses to party dresses made from range of sustainable material and recycled fabrics and objects.
Estethica was founded by the British Fashion Council over four years ago and is now in its ninth season. It was set up to allow designers committed to eco sustainability to show case their work and has grown to 37 designers this season. All of the cutting edge designers that participate at Estethica must abide by at least one of the three Estethica principles which include fair-trade and ethical practices, organic and recycled materials. But it is not just about eco credentials, design excellence is also really important.
New this year to Estethcia are 15 labels including Lost Property of London a North London based label that uses new fabrics that have been found, their current project includes making bags from recycled coffee bags and lining them with iconic liberty print fabric. The label also helps communities in impoverished countries. The label She Died of Beauty is a collaboration between model Erin O Connor and stylist Kate Half Penny which launches its first small but perfectly formed collection of ethical and organic cotton t shirts featuring funny and frivolous statements this Fashion Week.
There will also be some of the old favourites like Christopher Raeburn who made a name for himself last LFW with a collection which included a parachute women’s dress made from a recycled parachute. His designs are innovative, functional and fun. There is also Ada Zandition who is known for her digitally printed ethical womens dresses with sculptural detailing. Her range is high end ready to wear ethically made from sustainable fabrics. Another label Mina makes beautiful vintage inspired women’s dresses embellished with off cuts of lace and silk. Her dresses are both luxurious and feminine.
If you love the idea of ethical fashion, Fairtrade and organic cotton dresses and sustainable clothes, there are also plenty of great labels that don’t show at London Fashion Week but still manage to create some beautiful and affordable pieces of clothing with minimum negative impact on the environment and the lives of the people involved in making them.
Fashion Conscience has a great range of designers which are right on trend. The designers at Estethica and ethical fashion on this ground breaking website prove that it is completely possible to be stylish and sustainable.
Nancy Splatter Fairtrade Organic Dress by People Tree
Komodo Pepi Fairtrade Dress – made from hemp, wool and organic cotton
Komodo Luna Paisley Print Fairtrade Dress
Get A Great Look & Feel Cosy With The Motel Fisherman’s Cardigan This Autumn
September 16, 2010 by Ashleigh ·
Brrrr! its getting colder and so the autumn is upon us so we need to get wrapped up again, so The cardigan is this autumn’s must have to keep you warm as toast, but the question is are you wearing it right this season?
This Fisherman’s cardigan from Motel is a great functional piece for this season ,a nd as the name suggests it has a wonderful nautical look to it also wth it’s stripes, though practical with its cosy chunky knit it can also be super stylish if you know just how to wear it as there are so many ways you can style it for the autumn.
In Typical nautical fashion the navy blue colour of the fishermans cardigan just worn slouchy goes so well with jeans or alternatively with a dress to put an autumn twist on your summer wardrobe.
Matching it with jeans with a white vest would work great with this stylish autumn cardigan but also fairly predicatble, so why not try it with some denim shorts which have been very popular during the summer but paired with thick navy tights you can still wear the shorts and look bang on trend.
The fishermans cardigan naughtical look is perfectly finished with contrasting sailor stripes, large foldover collar and those long chunky sleeve, and is given its quirky character with classic over sized duffle coat toggles.
To accessorise simply add some simple chunky jewellery, and if you prefer use a chunky leather belt to fasten around the waist to add shape and change the look completely!
Motel Fishermans cardigan – navy
Versatile Crossover Tunic Dress For Summer & Autumn
September 12, 2010 by Ashleigh ·
Do you feel like your wearing jeans all the time? Well if you want a new look this autumn and fancy a change from the hum drum look then your wardrobe would not be complete without a tunic dress. Completely different to any thing else, these stylish dresses have a dress code all of there own.
If you are looking for something to brighten up your autumn then the Yumi Sheela Fantasy Butterfly Dress by Yumi is the perfect way to do it.
The Yumi Sheela Fantasy Butterfly Dress is decorated with simple but eye catching and colourful floral/birds originated design. The black background to the fabric keeps the dress vibrant as a contrast to the blues and pinks in the design but gives it just the right amount of balance.
This fun tunic style dress is an ideal partner to wear with a woolen cardigan for the autumn, perhaps black to blend with the dresses base colour, or if you want to be adventurous blue or pink to contrast. This new autumn look would not be complete without a pair of thick black tights.
However whilst it has no sleeves the Yumi Sheela Fantasy Butterfly Dress is ideal for the summer months too, so a perfect investment piece to cover both Autumn 2010 and Summer 2011.
There’s also no need to be self conscience in this dress as it’s great for any body shape, its long loosely hung tunic shaped bottom and therefore hides a multitude of sins and very accommodating no matter what shape you are.
It comes in convenient sizes S/M and M/L and comes in two fab colours to brighten up your autumn. The bold Blue print is great for anyone wanting to make a statement or just showing off there bubbly personality. But if you just want to tone it down then the pink Sheela Fantasy Butterfly Dress is for you with its natural and calming tones.
Yumi Sheela Fantasy Butterfly Dress
See More New Season Women’s Fashions from Yumi By clicking the button Below:
Maxi Dresses For Weddings
September 12, 2010 by Ceri ·
If you are searching for that perfect outfit, have you ever considered wearing maxi dresses for weddings? Maxi dresses are really on trend this year and with there being so many to choose from, there is a maxi dress to suit everyone and just about every occasion including weddings.
The beauty of the maxi dresses is that it skims over tummies hips and thighs for a romantic look that is incredibly feminine. If you are apple shaped or pear shaped, the maxi dress is your best friend as the empire line is so incredibly flattering. If you don’t like your legs, no problem, the maxi dress has that area covered and if you don’t like your arms, you can choose a dress with sleeves or add a cute bolero or cropped cardigan.
When you are choosing Maxi dresses for weddings, look for amazing colours, patterns or prints, luxurious fabrics and interesting details for a look that is a bit special for such a special occasion. Chiffon and silks work really well in maxi dresses as do jersey fabrics and tropical or floral prints. You could also look for embellishment around the top of the of the maxi dress for a really opulent style.
Maxi dresses originally became popular in the seventies but there is no need for a maxi dress to look at all dated. You can keep your look modern by adding a faux fur waistcoat for the autumn and winter or a great pair of wedge shoes.
Where to shop for maxi dresses for weddings
If it is luxurious maxi dresses in extravagant styles that you are looking for Coast is definitely a good starting point. With beautiful dresses in jewel rich colours and neutrals, draped designs and interesting shapes including a corset style top teamed with an elegant chiffon skirt. There are which would work well as bridesmaids dresses or even as an alternative wedding dress.
For plain maxi dresses in either black or eye popping pink, you could try Rare Fashions. These maxi dresses act as the perfect blank canvas for adding accessories galore. How about adding an embellished belt or a pashmina wrapped over the shoulders. Either way a great pair of heels and a clutch bag will finish the outfit perfectly.
For printed maxi dresses, Wallis is the place to look. They have a wide range of printed and patterned maxi dresses from florals to abstract prints. These dresses are the perfect way to add a little colour to a wedding outfit. Try picking out one of the colours with a brightly coloured clutch bag or pair of shoes.
You can finish off your wedding outfit to perfection with a beautiful hat or fascinator but if you would like to be a little more individual why not find a fun hair accessory like a flower or sparkly hair clip. Maxi dresses usually look best with a great pair of heels, for maximum comfort and practicality, wedges usually work really well.
Coast Party Dresses For Autumn And Winter
September 11, 2010 by Ceri ·
Coast dresses are the perfect solution on what to wear for a special occasion. Not only is there an amazing selection of elaborate evening dresses, party dresses and cocktail dresses but also day dresses . There is even a small selection of beautiful bridesmaid dresses to rival any in a conventional bridal shop.
For the autumn and winter, Coast has a number of collections which will allow you to indulge yourself with luxury and glamour, from elegant maxi dresses to chic Parisian style, plenty of occasion dresses on sleek duchess satin and pure and simple ivory dresses that might even be a dream wedding dress for some.
Silhouettes for women’s dresses for the autumn and winter include knee length sheath style dresses for that retro fifties look and also the classic prom dress shape which so classic for parties and special occasions. There is plenty of eye catching detail in the form of folds, pleats, ruffles and feathers. The colours scheme includes something for everyone with nude tones, muted metallic and jewel brights.
There are also some beautiful accessories and cover ups to perfectly compliment your Coast party dress including statement jewellery,beaded clutches, luxurious wraps and stunning fascinators.
For those really special occasions when getting it just right is really important, Coast offers some great services like the online swatch service where you can see, touch and feel the fabric before you buy. You can also use the exclusive Coast by appointment service or just order items online to try in the comfort of your own home.
This is the perfect variation on a classic shift dress with a twist. With a gently flaring a line skirt and rich berry tones it is incredibly flattering. It is a great option for those day to evening occasions.
This stylish dress combines a vintage feel with a modern but classic shape. It can be dressed down with boots for the daytime or worn with black high heels and accessories for the day time.
This elegant maxi dres oozes old world charm. It would work so well as an evening dress with a pair of long gloves. It could also be worn with a smart jacket for a daytime occasion. A silver or jewelled clutch will finish the outfit off to perfection.
This stunning feather dress has a feel of the twenties about it. With a flattering halterneck and opulent feather trim, it will work for weddings, parties and just about any special occasions.
This decadent maxi dress combines flowers, draping, silk and chiffon in beautiful shades of pink and purple for an evening gown that has a definite touch of red carpet glamour about it.
Inspired by the sixties shift, the eye popping colour of this dress definitely makes a statement. Made from luxurious silk chiffon it flatters the figure by gently skimming over the body. Wear with black shoes and accessories or for a really bold look try a bright clutch bag and shoes.
5 Top Looks For High Waisted Shorts This Autumn
September 8, 2010 by Ashleigh ·
Just because the summer has come to and end there is no reason to stop wearing your shorts, all you need to do is adapt your look for the season and pull on a pair of tights and follow our 5 simple ways to keep your look fresh and funky.
Nautical has been a big trend over the summer and continues to feature strongly in the fashion glossies for A/W so you can’t go wrong with a classic yet simple pair of Bronagh High Waisted Striped Denim Shorts from Missguided.
The shorts are denim so extremely durable however the navy pinstripe just gives them that added class. These shorts are a great colour and totally reflect the nautical style mentioned above so you can match with loads with, a real capsule peice.They’re comfortable to wear and great value too, an essential piece of kit for the new college term, and certainly worth dipping into that student loan for your new college wardrobe.
Bronagh High Waisted Striped Denim Shorts
- Pull off the urban rock chick look with Navy tights and high Waisted Shorts this autumn, they allow you to look tremendous but still keep warm. If you prefer not to wear blue you can easily adopt other colours, especially thick black opaque tights which are especially good for this look, alternatively team up with foot-less leggings for the ultimate rock chick look.
- Simple but effective is to add a light smocked gypsy shirt and floral navy or blue chunky jewellery and this simple on trend look is a great new college look for this autumns semester.
- A bright floral printed cropped length jumper over a white vest top is a completely different way to show off your Bronagh High Waisted Striped Denim Shorts blues… even pinks or reds work great with these nautical style shorts, and to add the finishing touch a complementing hair flower really finishes this look off, perhaps more hippy chick than rock chic…
- Opposites are a great look this autumn how about putting a floral red sleeveless blouse over a vest top and tucking it in to give your look that country feel the Bronagh High Waisted Striped Denim Shorts work great with pumps or heals especially in navy’s and reds or with footless tights how about a classic pair of gladiator sandals?
- Finally sometimes more is less, so why not just go back to basics and just pull on a striped red and white t-shirt keeping the nautical theme running throughout to keep the chill at bay this autumn match with a plain cardigan and pumps… this look is timeless!
Animal Magic – Stylish Animal Print Dresses
September 5, 2010 by Ceri ·
Animal prints have for a long time had some slightly undesirable associations, including Bett Lynch of Coronation Street and Pat Butcher of Eastenders. Whilst animals prints can look a little harsh, tacky or over the top, they can also look really stylish. With animal print dresses, it is all about how you wear them. Picking out just the right animal print dress will ensure that you look stylish, sophisticated and on trend.
Zebra Print
The zebra print dress is one of the most on trend animal print dresses at the moment. The bold combination of black and white looks amazing when combined with accessories or shoes in bright primary colours. This beautiful and very wearable Zebra Cowl Dress by Project D by Dannii and Tabitha has an incredibly flattering cut that suits most body shapes. A really sophisticated way to wear animal prints.
Muted animal prints
By wearing a muted version of the animal print, it takes on a whole new look which is subtle and sophisticated. The softer colours look very different in comparison to the traditional bold animal prints. This is the perfect choice of animal print for a day dress and can even work for wearing to the office or into work. The neutral colours in this Lorna Animal print dress are a fresh alternative to the traditional yellow and black leopard print.
Dressed down animal print dresses
By adding a pair of hiking boots and a biker jacket to your animal dresses, you can make it more Rock and Roll than Pat Butcher avoid over accessorising instead think grunge instead of over glammed. The seasons wedge shoes are also a great choice for wearing with your animal prints, try looking for beige, sand and black. We love these zipper wedge ankle boots by Acne.
Mixing it up
Leena Animal and Lace Print Dress
Ruby Animal and Rose Print Dress
Keep your animal print dress looking fresh and up to date by combining the animal print with something else perhaps a pretty floral or lace design. This Ruby Animal and Rose Print dress by Boohoo combines roses over a leopard skin background for the perfect combinations of pretty and racy.
Small Areas of Animal Print
Some times less is definitely more and this can be true when it comes to animal print. Look for dresses with small areas of animal print for a subtle but stylish look. This Daphne dress by Motel Rocks has a great combination of black and leopard print which is sexy but not too much.
If all over animal prints are too much for you, you can still add a bit of animal magic with a LBD accessorised with some great animal print accessories.
This animal Jaquard scarf is a great accessory for the autumn or winter and for a subtle touch of animal print.
A pair of animal print pumps is the perfect footwear for a stylish daytime outfit. We love these animal print flower ballerina pumps.
