Grease Lightnin'

Pradas' SS12 collection is A-MAZING. Jewel-encrusted jackets, bandeau tops (a definite must this season), pleated skirts, and sundresses in subtle milkshake shades, make this one of the most extravagant collections of 2012. Inspired by Grease Lightnin', Miuccia's theme for the show was 'Donna e Motori', which roughly equates to 'women and cars'. Flame motifs and Cadillacs are printed on high waisted leather skirts -very sexy- while stiletto's are decorated with vibrant flames. Cats eye sunglasses, strong red lips and feminine silhouettes give the Prada 'woman' real substance, seductively elegant. However if, like me, you have already over spent this season, you can grab yourself some Prada inspired stilettos or delicate pastel pretties from Topshop or Zara.

Foodillic

Dolce and Gabbana's SS12 collection is so much fun. Dresses covered with onions, aubergines, tomatoes, chili peppers- the list goes on- it truly indulges in the idea of rural Italy. I wasn't sure at first but the collection has really grown on me. The mid-length skirts add to the notion of an idyllic countryside, paired with 1950's pin-up style bras, it's an outstanding collection. The accessories don't disappoint either. The bow shaped pasta earrings are fantastic and right on trend, big earrings are a definite must this season. Domenico and Stefano have definitely outdone themselves, this is a collection reflecting true Italian spirit...

Vogue Fest- Day 2

After day one, it is safe to say my expectations were significantly lower. Determined not to be starved half to death, I stocked up on food and water and set out for what I thought would be a rather tiresome second day. This was not the case. Here are the highlights but feel free to indulge in a more detailed account at www.125magazine.com

The first speaker was Diane Von Furstenberg. Talking of how she battled her way to the top- and trust me she fought- it was truly inspirational. Not knowing "what she wanted to do" but knowing the "kind of woman she wanted to be" she reminisced about her life in a way that most could relate to. It was a motivational talk, reiterating the importance of hard work and determination. Perfect start to the day!

 Inspiring journalists to put pen to paper, controversial David Bailey stole the limelight. Publicly critiquing his colleagues, I quote, "don't ever sign anything for fucking Conde Nast or Hearst" followed swiftly by a seemingly throw away comment of his "ghastly contract with American Vogue", he threw the audience into Facebook and Twitter frenzy. Looks of disapproval exchanged by the owners of Conde Nast and  Vogue, the audience animated- laughter, gasps and the sound of multiple cameras. I would not be lying if I said he 'made' my day. Being nothing but himself, he can "only be described as a modern legend".

(For full article on Bailey check out www.125magazine.com)

Tom ford was A-MAZING! Trying his hand at almost anything, as well as designing womenswear he recently directed a feature film, he makes us mere mortals look lazy. Charismatic and great fun, he really got the audiences' juices flowing. Definitely a great contributuion to an already eventful day. 

So, that's it- Vogue Fest in a nutshell. Hope you enjoyed x

Vogue Fest- Day 1

Ok, deadlines met, you now have my full, undivided attention! I know this has been a LONG time coming. But here you have it... my take on the first ever Vogue Festival. 

It is safe to say everyone had high expectations for what was deemed fashions biggest event of the year, second only to Fashion Week. With a star-studded line up and an altogether promising start, the sun was shining, beautiful decor and a, how shall I describe it, persuasive ambiance; in that the excitement was seemingly contagious, it seemed Vogue had got everything right. However, first impressions were all but deceptive. Yes, speakers such as Stella McCartney and Tom Ford got the audiences juices flowing, the event was tarnished by unfulfilled promises, lack of organisation and an extortionately over priced cafe- who quite clearly forgot that normal human beings eat more than two hundred calories a day. Don't get me wrong, the Designers were great, awe inspiring and focused, it was the general set up of the event that let it down. 

All this said and done, fingers crossed they take note of their failings and improve next year, I will fill you in on all my favourite bits from the two days...

First up was Christopher Bailey. He is most famous for revolutionising Burberry, broadening its audience, making it accessible to young style fanatics and conservative city workers. His SS12 collection is a perfect example of this. Inspired by arts and crafts, it features bold colours, dramatic embellishments  and flattering shapes, great for those in need of a statement piece. However, he also continues with what I term the 'Burberry classics' , that is, the infamous trench paired with a simple tee. It seems he has it all covered, especially as sales are reported to have risen by 11%... Well done Bailey! It seems you weren't far wrong when you talked of "unlocking" the brand, giving it the "love it deserved".

  

Next we had Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, who are the cutest duo I have ever seen! They complement each other perfectly, both in business and friendship. The pair had organised three short movies to be played under three separate headings. The whole discussion was centred on love-  love of family, fashion and Italy. I must say it was an emotional display, largely due to their excellent choice in music, set against a backdrop of powerful images  making it very moving! It became clear that the success of Dolce and Gabbana lay in their formidable love for each other, their team and Italia! It is safe to say their input was thoroughly enjoyable. 

 Stella McCartney accompanied by Kate Hudson marked the end of day one. These two were great fun. The pair role played, with Kate assuming the role of a reporter/journalist. I am a huge fan of Stella and love her SS12 collection- especially the pyjama inspired trouser suit- so really enjoyed the discussion. Both were so down to earth, Stella even offered work experience to one of the girls in the audience. They were definitely the highlight of day one, taking the edge off an already exhausted audience.

So, it wasn't all bad. Aside from the over priced, under stocked cafe and the constant battle for seats, day one was wrapped up neatly by Stella and Kate. And while I should have been at home blogging about the event, I was out drinking instead- never a wise move when you have five million deadlines the following week. But oh well, we live and learn!

(Day 2 will be posted as soon as my piece for 125 Magazine goes live... which should be later this evening!)

Reunited

Just a quick post of my outift from the first day of the Vogue Festival.  Stupidly I left my camera in the hotel but managed to find this on the net. At last, my Carven top and skirt reunited! Wahoooooooo! Plenty of photos to follow tomorrow as well as all the gossip so stay tuned...

Vogue Fest (temporary update)

The Vogue Festival was more chaotic than anticipated so my intention of a daily update never came to fruition. I am busy, busy, busy at the moment writing a feature for 125 Magazine so will provide a detailed account of the two day event, along with all the controversies, by Tuesday. Apologies for the neglect! For the meantime you can indulge in some of the photos I took during the event... And yes, that is the adorable Mr Tom Ford! Who, let me tell you, is the most charismatic man I have ever met in my life!

From top, left to right: Hair and make-up artists at work; Jo Ellison (Feature Director, British Vogue); Eva Herzigova, Lily Cole, Natalia Vodianova and Jourdan Dunn; Diane Von Furstenberg; Attendee wearing Mary Katrantzou; Tom Ford.

Vogue Festival

Just a quick post tonight as I have been busy packing for the Vogue Festival. I blame the temperament of the weather for what seems like an excessive amount of luggage. Although, I have never really been one for travelling light...

It is the first year this event has been hosted so not really sure what to expect but i'll keep you posted. Log on for daily updates on panel discussions, lectures and debates hosted by some of fashions leading personalities. 

Mint Blues

Was scouring through the net-a-porter website last night when I came across some pieces from Prabal Gurung's SS12 collection. While most designers focused on one or two of this seasons trends, it appears Gurung has catered for them all. The three pictures above- only a small sample of the collection- feature bright digital prints, florals, Olympic inspired sports wear and the seductive sheer dress that has thrown fashionistas into a frenzy. However, he has not  compromised on quality, each piece is beautifully designed and the whole collection is absolutely stunning. The colour scheme, mint blues juxtaposed with lilacs and deep purples, is magnificently coordinated with high necklines compensating the brave blend of bold prints. I would not be lying if told you that I absolutely ADORE this collection. The mish mash of ideas is so refreshing! Anyone daring enough to take on, and sucessfully complete a collection with so many conflicting themes wins my vote. 

Ethnic Prints

 While trying desperately hard to hold out for my skirt, which unfortnately is in the tailors, I caved in this morning and put on my new Carven shirt. I absolutely love this piece! It is 100% silk and sooooooo comfortable. The ethnic print is great for this season. The bold pattern combined with the contrasting colours definitely puts this in my top ten purchases for SS12.

Shirt Carven, Trousers Vivienne Westwood and shoes Scorah Pattullo.

Perfect Pair

Cap toed pumps are all the rage this season featured in Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel and Louboutin's collections.  However, the Louis Vuitton pumps (pictured above) are by far the best I have seen. The things I would do to get my hands on a pair, I love them! You can pair them with almost anything; jeans, dresses, skirts even tailored suits. The thick heel gives them extra stability and the narrow point makes for pure perfection. They are extremely expensive, so if they are a bit above budget you can pick some similar pumps up from Topshop or Zara... These are a definite must for this season, so get shopping!

High Tops

My new high top sneakers arrived this morning. Unfortunately the Isabel Marant ones were a little too pricey so i opted for these instead- although trust me, they were not an easy buy. It has taken me three months to get my hands on a pair... completely sold out everywhere.

 These are perfect for achieveing effortless style, and if, like me, you are addicted to your heels, there is the added bonus of a three inch wedge! I would not be lying if i told you they are insanely comfortable. Cannot wait to pair them with a smock style mini dress and hit the beach

Sneakers avaliable at www.ashfootwear.co.uk

'Roaring Twenties'

 Frida Giannini was thinking flappers, cloche hats, jazz and the Charleston when she designed Gucci's SS12 collection. Inspired by F.Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby' it is reminiscent of a growing economy, easy prosperity, and what has typically been termed the American Dream. Despite the great depression of 1929, the early 20's was a time of economic boom and mass production.  Seemingly ironic set against the backdrop of the current climate, it is not sheer coincidence. Designers are aware that a crashing market entails financial difficulty and thus, they serve to remind us that there are better times ahead. The combination of fashion with literature is pure genius. Giannini's modern take on the decade, with strict tailoring and bold prints, does not detract from authentic 20's glamour with drop waisted shirt dresses fully embellished with fringing and trailing. These have definitely been added to my wishlist!

Sneak Peek

I was like a kid at Christmas when i got home from work and my new Carven pieces had arrived. The final edition to my Spring collection has been eagerly anticipated! Unfortunately, the skirt is a little big and needs to be altered so you will have to wait for a full profile shot. However, i couldn't resist giving you a sneak peek.

Missing link

I was just doing some research on those attending the Vogue Festival later this month when i came across David Koma's SS12 collection. Much to my disappointment this had totally escaped my radar, hence I thought it was worth a quick post incase it had escaped anyone elses. Inspired by geometric and aztec patterns the whole collection is beautifully constructed. Slightly gutted I didn't get my hands on one of these pieces... would have been a great contribution to my SS12 wardrobe!

Waterworld

I am loving the gymnastic inspired Chanel SS12 campaign, shot at Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France. Modelled by Saskia de Braux and Joan Smalls, Karl Largerfield has definitely used the hype for the up and coming olyimpics to his advantage. 

I remember catching a glimpse of this campaign in the March issue of Vogue and each month my admiration for the designer grows. While inkeeping with the water themed runway show at Paris Fashion Week, it is perhaps a little ironic that it is shot above water. The inspiration in Paris, was the illusive 'underwater' world with models coated in pearls, and the iconic presence of coral and seashell sculptures. No doubt intentional, Largerfield likes to keep us fashionistas on our toes, you cannot deny that this is a beautifully shot campaign.