Fatal Attraction 2 Fashion

End of Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:36:00 +0000

Hey Everyone!

I'm just writing this post to say that I have decided to end Fatal Attraction 2 Fashion indefinitely.

I will still continue blogging, and I may post things on here from time to time, but my efforts will now be focussed on my fashion illustration blog, Danielle Shepherd Fashion Illustration.

I want to thank you all so much for all for taking the time to visit this blog since I started it in 2008, and also for leaving all those wonderful, encouraging comments on my posts.

Please feel free to visit me on my new blog, I'd love to see you all there! x

Booted up for winter

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 07:06:00 +0000

All the leaves are brown, and the sky is grey, I went for a walk on a winter's day...

If you were in certain parts of the U.K and the U.S over the past few weeks, chances are you've also encountered quite a bit of snow while out walking on a winter's day. And what a bone-chilling, treacherous walk it can be if your footwear is not designed to withstand these icy weather conditions.

Winter boots may not be the most elegant of footwear but when functionality plays an important role, unfortunately the level of chicness tends to go down. Luckily there are more options than 'total fashion monstrosity' available and the boots I've listed below guarantee you will step out with your style, budget and physical balance intact.

Black Lace-up Snow Boots
Price: UK£58.00 (US$89.75)

Mocha Fur Wedge Calf Boots
Price: UK£29.99 (US$46.40)

Kamik Women's Stratford Winter Boot
Price: US$90.00

Suedette Faux Fur Lined Boot
Price: US$35.80

ASICS 'Snow Eden' Boot
Price: US$99.95

Sidenote: Happy New Year everyone! Hope you all had a wonderful holiday and a great start to 2011!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 06:50:00 +0000

This illustration is for all my lovely readers out there. I just want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and I hope your holiday season will be filled with lots of love and laughter. Enjoy!

10 under $100 for the Holidays - Party Dresses

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 23:08:00 +0000

Christmas has rolled around once again and for many of us, this time usually comes with invites to plenty of cocktail parties and Christmas dinners. If you're going to get through all your holiday events in style (and with your sanity intact), a fabulous cocktail dress is a definite must-have for the season.

We ladies all have different holiday dress personalities - some of us like to be the centre of attention while others prefer to have a more subtle party presence.

The 10 lovely dresses I've listed below cater to both personality types and are well below $100! Budget-friendly and stylish options because you've all been great girls this year - you deserve it ;)

BOLD AND FLIRTY

Ochre Draped Slinky Dress

Price: UK£17.00 (US$26.40)

Printed One Shoulder Dress

Price: US$53.94

2b Velvet Drape Dress
Price: US$49.95

Closet Pink Gathered Drape Dress

Price: UK£30.00 (US$46.89)

Strapless Party Dress
Price: US$23.80

DEMURE AND ROMANTIC

ASOS Embellished Waist Drape One Shoulder Dress
Price: UK£38.00 (US$59.00)

Ivory Tower Cream Dress
Price: US$34.00

Sleeveless Sequin Ballerina Dress
Price: US$24.99

All Over Lace Pleated Bust Tube Dress
Price: UK£34.50 (US$53.57)

Ruffle Shoulder Dress
Price: US$31.47

Rome Street Style

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 15:28:00 +0000

Yeah, I know what you're thinking, "Don't quit your day job". Well not to worry, I have absolutely no intentions of even thinking about becoming a photographer. I did my best but it's a shame that these photos don't come close to capturing the brilliant style I saw every day while I was in Rome.

Italians may not be as wild and creative with their personal style as Londoners are, but I was struck by how fashionably flawless they were. They know a great fit, what colours work well together - and they rock an outfit with an easy, nonchalant confidence like no other. (perfect hair and makeup helps a little too!).

P.S Not all these people in the photos are Italians but still stylish nonetheless. :)

Danielle Shepherd Fashion Illustration

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 15:56:00 +0000

Hey everyone,

I know I promised some Rome Street Style in the next post, so think of this as like a commercial break post.

I just wanted to take this opportunity to plug (it's not shameful if it's on my own blog right?) my new fashion illustration blog, Danielle Shepherd Fashion Illustration.

I've posted some of my illustrations on this blog before but I thought it was time to create a new one dedicated solely to my work. I would really appreciate it if you'd check it out, and if you like, leave a comment or two. Thanks a lot!

Now back to your regularly scheduled program.

What I Wore: Roman Holiday

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 17:28:00 +0000

Up until a week ago, I had only travelled to two countries in my life - Trinidad and England. I'm happy to say that I can now add Italy to that list. Rome, to be exact. I had been thinking about taking a trip for a long time but going to Rome was a fairly last minute decision.

I only stayed for 5 nights but that was more than enough time to fall totally in love with the Eternal City. Whether it was sightseeing at the Colosseum or strolling along Via del Corso, it was easy to see that this amazing city was thoroughly abundant with beauty, history, style and elegance.

My hotel was located in Central Rome and was in fairly close proximity to most of the major sites so therefore my main mode of transportation was walking. I don't know about you but if I'm doing a lot of walking I like to be comfortable, which means relaxed clothing and flat shoes.

Hence...

I have to say, most of the shopping on the high street was a little out of my budget range but ever the bargain hunter, I did manage to find out about a popular Sunday market in the area of Porta Portese. It was a longer trek than most of the other places I'd been to - 30 minute walk from my hotel - plus the rain was pelting, but it was all worth it. After rummaging through a number of stalls, I scored these two great pieces below.

Have you travelled to any exciting places recently?

Will post some Rome Street Style in the next post - paparrazzo style!

Blue Leopard

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:06:00 +0000

photo courtesy jakandjil.com/blog

Leopard prints continue to charge full steam ahead as one of the top trends of the A/W 2010 season but the majority of them tend to be quite literal translations of the motif.

An interesting take on the theme is coloured leopard prints, or more specifically, blue leopard. It's more funky and playful than the usual brown leopard print but the cool tone of the blue keeps it easy on the eyes.

If you're feeling the blue leopard print as much as I am, check out the gorgeous, stylish pieces below.

Sunny Leigh Blouse

Price: US$36.99

Leopard Print Scarf
Price: UK£12.00 (US$18.74)

Hobbs Animal Cardigan

Price: UK£44.00 (US$68.60)

Gianni Bini "Honey" Pump
Price: US$89.99

Leopard Dress
Price: UK£34.00 (US$53.00)

Celebrity Style for less - Odette Yustman

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 12:36:00 +0000

'Cloverfield' actress Odette Yustman attended the GQ Men of the Year party in Los Angeles on November 18 and she did so in fine style.

Odette brought some sparkle to the black carpet in her gorgeous Alice + Olivia Aubrey Sequin Skirt Bustier Dress, which she combined with a black blazer and black booties.

photo courtesy justjared.com

If you're a fan of Odette's party look, here's how to get it for less.

Caslon Chiffon Tier Tank

Price: US$39.00

Blaque Label Disco Ball Silver Sequin Mini Skirt
Price: US$63.00

Silence & Noise Boyfriend Blazer

Price: US$78.00

Jones New York Deirdra Bootie

Price: US$69.00

And it was all yellow

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 04:32:00 +0000

photos courtesy elleuk.com, hanneli.com, streethearts.com,

waynetippets.com, style.com, glamcanyon.blogspot.com

Looking at the photos above, I realize that I don't have nearly enough yellow in my life. All the shades on the yellow spectrum, whether buttery, lemon-y or mustard-y, are absolutely fantabulous in my book.

Yellow tends to be a colour associated with summer as it best reflects the warmth and cheerful mood of that season. In colder seasons dominated by the darkest, most dreary colours, a bit of yellow is always a surprising yet most welcome addition.

Below are some of my picks of stylish yellow pieces to brighten up a winter wardrobe.

ASOS Textured Cotton Pea Mac

Price: UK£70.00 (US$120.68)

Chunky Knit Snood Scarf
Price: US$7.80

Drawstring Pencil Skirt
Price: US$28.99

Cotton Cable V-Neck Sweater

Price: US$29.00

Etienne Aigner Tuscon Tote
Price: US$63.99

See by Chloé Cropped Cotton-blend Pants
Price: US$81.00

Alfani Sweater

Price: US$29.99

UO Suede Pump

Price: US$49.00

Like it or not? - PJ by Peter Jensen Bunny Sweater

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 02:49:00 +0000

PJ by Peter Jensen Bunny Sweater

Price: US$88.00

Some may find it adorable, some may think it a bit odd and infantile. I personally prefer my bunnies multiplied and scattered in pattern form rather than one gigantic rabbit mug on the front of my clothing. Also, there's a chance people won't even notice your own face if it's competing with this massive woven beast. Sure it looks warm and cozy, but is the large bunny head a bit too much of a good thing or is it just right?

Get the look: Plus Size Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 14:01:00 +0000

Being a curvy size 18 myself, I can understand the frustration many women over size 12 feel when it comes to finding plus-size outfit ideas that perfectly fits both our style and our bodies.

Runways, magazines and even the majority of blogs are inundated with images of impossibly thin women in the miniest of minis or second-skin trousers, looking effortlessly stylish, and as much as we love what she's wearing, it can be difficult to imagine it on ourselves. I can't tell you how to get her body (I assume you're happy with yours anyway!) but I can help you figure out how to get a plus-size version of her style.

First, you need to know that not every outfit can be successfully translated into plus-size but there quite a few that can and it just takes a bit of careful analysis to figure out which. In order to know if an outfit can work for your body, you need to first understand what your body shape is. Here is a very informative visual guide that can help you figure out exactly what shape you are.

Once you know what your shape is, the next thing you need to do is examine the silhouette of the outfit. Particularly for larger-sized bodies, it's important to have balance when it comes to clothing. If you have wide hips, wearing a spaghetti strap top with a harem trousers is only going to make them look wider. Similarly, if you have a large bust, wearing a frilly high-neck top with pencil skirt will definitely place more emphasis on that area. And while those baggy, shapeless tops definitely cover those mid-section lumps and bumps, they often make us look equally baggy and shapeless.

When analyzing an outfit, ask yourself questions such as:

Which areas are being downplayed and which are being highlighted?
Does it nip in at the waist to create a more balanced, hourglass silhouette?
How does colour/pattern work to attract or detract from certain areas?

Generally, the easiest looks to translate to plus-size are the ones with somewhat basic, layered items with one or two statement pieces thrown in that take it to the next level.

I've selected three street style insiration outfits below and found some very stylish items to help you create the plus-size version of each look.

LOOK 1

photo courtesy cosmopolitan.hr

PLUS SIZE VERSION

Simple Sparkle Stripe Tank

Price: US$7.79

Long Sleeve Lightweight Cardigan
Price: US$59.50

Moroccan Market Scarf
Price: US$24.99

ASOS CURVE Chino Trousers
Price: UK£28.00 (US$48.27)

LOOK 2

photo courtesy refinery29.com

PLUS SIZE VERSION

Black Shrunken Rolled-Sleeve Blazer
Price: US$52.00

Frill Neck Dress
Price: US$58.00

Black Wedge Ankle Boots

Price: UK£35.00 (US$55.55)

LOOK 3

photo courtesy carolinesmode.com/stockholmstreetstyle

PLUS SIZE VERSION

Reversible Gilet

Price: UK£39.50 (US$62.74)

Garden Dance Blouse

Price: US$20.99

Torrid Roxanne Bootcut Denim Jean

Price: US$38.00

Fashion Inspiration - Business Chic

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 16:18:00 +0000

When it comes to working in fashion, it can been a bit of a challenge sometimes trying to figure out what to wear during the interview stage and even after you've got the job.

If there's a uniform or specific dress code guidelines (for one job, I was required to wear all black everyday), it can be restricting and boring but it certainly makes picking out work wear much less time consuming.

However, if no dress code has been identified, it can be an intimidating task trying to pick out the right look.

I've asked a few fashion insiders what is the key to a great fashion interview outfit and they have all said, "Be yourself and show your personality". It's great advice because the truth is, if you don't feel like yourself, you won't be yourself.

Personality is such an important part of making a good impression in a fashion job but it can be tricky to find the right balance of personality and professionalism.

What you wear can say a whole lot about who you are and what you're about before you even open your mouth so you don't want it to say the wrong thing. If your outfit is dull and frumpy, they may assume that you lack personality, creativity and you're the type to always play it safe. However, depending on the job, if your outfit is too casual or too crazy, it may give the impression that you're a flaky type who isn't really serious about working.

A good way to keep the outfit looking business smart is to include a structured piece of some sort, for example, a sharp blazer or tailored trousers and personality can be shown through interesting prints, colours, accessories and more.

Doing research on the company should give you a good idea of their style aesthetic and you can find a way to incorporate an element that reflects this into your outfits instead of sacrificing your own style.

Below are some fantastic business chic inspirations, both simple and adventurous, that strike the right balance of professional and personal style.

photos courtesy style.com, luckymag.com, waynetippets.com,
facehunter.blogspot.com, vanessajackman.blogspot.com,
stockholmstreetstyle.feber.se, altamiranyc.blogspot.com,
thesartorialist.blogspot.com, nitrolicious.com,

(Please let me know of any sources that I've left out and I will add them asap)

Any Fashion Designers want to work for Celine?

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 09:51:00 +0000

That's Shoe/Bag designers to be exact.

I've never posted about fashion job opportunities before but this is such a great one that I felt I had to share it.

photo courtesy taistoisoisbeau.com

French fashion label Celine is offering a paid (£280/week) Shoe/Bag Design internship for six weeks at their offices and studio in London's West End.

The student will be supervised by the Head of Bag Design and could learn about the workings of a busy design studio and the creative design process, and also be an assistant to the Leather Goods department.

This placement is a great opportunity for an organized, flexible student with a fashion background who is seeking hands-on industry experience and is available for an immediate start.

Closing date is ASAP so send your CV and covering letter to g.trembath@uk.celine.com quickly to ensure you get a shot at this job.

All the best to those who apply!

For the original job posting, visit the University of the Arts London website.

Pop down to these Pop-up Shops

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 19:58:00 +0000

I visited Sketchbook Magazine's much discussed pop-up shop on Saturday in London's trendy Soho area. Since I printed out the wrong map to the location (of course), I had to ask around in various stores around the area (including one with a cute guy behind the counter "Hello you" *winks*) and after walking around like a headless chicken for 30 mins, I finally found my way to the shop on Newburgh Street.

I was a bit ruffled from the confusion but my spirits were quickly lifted when I stepped inside and I was engulfed by a wonderful mood of creativity and artistic expression. Covering the previously pristine whitewashed walls were gorgeous fashion illustrations in stylized marker-drawn picture frames as well as books, clothing, accessories and much more spilling out of every nook and cranny of the downstairs room.

A number of other fashion lovers soon arrived and we all took our seats for the upcoming event which was a lecture/discussion by prominent UK stylist, Rebekah Roy who took us through her journey of becoming a stylist which involved plenty of hard work, determination and even a few interesting career-propelling chance encounters with well-known fashion personalities. She was very warm and honest and eagerly dispensed a lot of helpful advice to the aspiring fashion stylists in the audience.

The Sketchbook Magazine Pop-Up Shop is located at 10 Newburgh Street, Carnaby, W1 and it will be hosting a variety of fashion and music-related workshops, lectures and other exciting activities from now until April 18, 2010.

For more information on the Sketchbook Pop-Up Shop, visit the Sketchbook Blog.

Another Soho area fashion attraction is the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) White Gold Pop-Up Shop which I chanced upon during my search for the Sketchbook Mag's event.

Inside the store was the uplifting sight of colourful furnishings, cool clothing and tasty cookies and cupcakes - a winning combination.

Two friendly volunteers happily welcomed me inside the store and explained EJF's mission and the purpose this pop-up shop.

The EJF's 'Pick Your Cotton Carefully' campaign features T-shirts designed by Giles Deacon, Betty Jackson, Christian Lacroix, Luella among others, and the tees were photographed on popular models including Devon Aoki, Coco Rocha, Lily Cole and Irina Lazareanu.

The eco-friendly shirts are designed around the theme of "childhood, lost innocence and hope" and they highlight EJF's newly released and highly anticipated report called "Slave Nation" on their campaign to end forced child labour in the world's 3rd largest cotton exporter, Uzbekistan.

It's difficult to imagine that the reality for an estimated 1 million children, some as young as 10 years old, are forced to work in Uzbekistan's cotton fields day after day and are subjected squalid living conditions, paid very little to nothing and contract dangerous, sometimes fatal, illnesses.

EJF aims to provide an alternative to these terrible labour conditions by using organic, fairtrade Continental cotton from Turkey and printed with organic certified inks. Additionally, the money raised from the sale of the 'Pick Your Cotton Carefully' tees goes towards EJF's work to eradicate forced child labour and the use of dangerous pesticides in cotton production.

The EJF 'Pick Your Cotton Carefully' T-Shirts can be bought for just £30 at the Pop-Up shop itself, in selected stores worldwide and also online at www.ejfoundation.org/shop. The shop also showcases chic clothing and accessories by other ethical fashion labels which are also available for sale.

Go check out EJF's Pop-Up Shop on Carnaby Street, Monday to Saturday from 10am – 7pm and on Sunday from 12pm – 6pm to pick up some stylish, exclusively designed clothing and support a great cause at the same time.

Head over to www.ejfoundation.org for more information on the Environmental Justice Foundation.

What I Want Right Now - Ear Chain

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 03:02:00 +0000

photo courtesy bikerjewelry.com

photo courtesy wiregems.com

I'm seriously considering getting a helix piercing just so I can wear an ear chain like the ones above. I really love the style but I'd probably prefer them with more/longer chains and in funkier colours. I already have my lobes pierced twice but the only thing I don't like about getting another piercing is the required maintenance afterwards.

I would love to find one that doesn't require another piercing like the one below which just hooks over the top over the ear but no such luck as yet. If any of you knows where I can find one or you make jewelry and you're willing to do a customized one for a reasonable price, please let me know!

photo courtesy youngfatandfabulous.com

Celebrity Style for less - Victoria Beckham

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 07:49:00 +0000

Victoria Beckham certainly knows how to travel in style as she arrived at London Heathrow Airport on March 23 in a chic, menswear-inspired ensemble.

The former Spice Girl and current fashion designer takes on the utilitarian trend in a sharp black blazer, olive green cuffed trousers and a heather grey tank top. She accessorized the look with nude platform heels, a statement gold men's watch, a gold ring and her trademark Aviator sunglasses.

photo courtesy justjared.com

Replicate this stylish look with the much more affordable alternatives below:

Oasis Power Shoulder Blazer
Price: UK£33.00 (US$56.41)

Rib Tank with Chiffon Straps
Price: US$6.78

Military Peg Leg Trousers (Product Number 588563)
Price: UK£29.99 (US$44.68)

Nine West Nadia
Price: US$79.99

Designer Inspired Large Aviator Sunglasses
Price: US$9.80

Sekonda Men's 8 Diamond Gold Plated Bracelet Watch
Price: UK£49.99 (US$74.48)

Faux Diamond Waves Ring

Price: US$4.80

Cool Vintage Finds - Feline Fantasy

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 20:42:00 +0000

I love cats. Not in a weird, cliche "I want to live with them alone for the rest of my life" kind of way but I do have a definite affinity for them.

I also have a thing for the cat motif in fashion and I believe novelty feline prints and accessories are a really great way to add fun and quirkiness to Spring wardrobes.

The Miu Miu Spring 2010 runway was littered (bad pun intended) with cute, playful cats on clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry - you name it, cats were on it.

images courtesy style.com

I scoured Etsy and Ebay to find some cute and stylish vintage cat pieces and came up with quite a few options below.

Crazy Cat Lady Sweater
Price: US$35.00

Meow Cute Sterling Silver Kitty Ring
Price: US$5.50

Vintage Beaded Bag with Cats and Roses
Price: US$16.99

Movable Vintage Hoop Pierced Earrings with Cat
Price: US$12.00

Vtg 70s Black Cat and Guitar Boho Kaftan Dress
Price: US$24.99
(N.B 7 days left in auction)

Vintage Pewter Color Three Cat Necklace
Price: US$16.50

Cats in Love Brooch
Price: US$8.00

Vtg 80s Tapestry Vest

Price: US$9.99
(N.B 7 days left in auction)

Vintage Cat Earrings
Price: US$6.00

Here are some little known and interesting (to me anyway) cat facts taken from www.catscans.com:

Ailurophilia is the "love of cats".
The nose pad of a cat is ridged in a pattern that is unique, just like the fingerprint of a human.
The domestic cat is the only cat species able to hold its tail vertically while walking. All wild cats hold their tails horizontally or tucked between their legs while walking.
Sir Isaac Newton, discoverer of the principles of gravity, also invented the cat door.
A cat will amost never "meow" at another cat. This sound is reserved for humans.
A group of kittens is called a "kindle" and a group of grown cats is called a "clowder".

Also, here's a Vogue fashion spread from 2008 which features cute Persian cats and model Karen Elson with hair, makeup and outfits inspired by the fantastic Grace Coddington.

photos courtesy mycatgoma.com

Ever walked a pot-bellied pig while wearing Chanel?

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 21:16:00 +0000

No...me neither but I think mini pot-bellied pigs are so cute and I've always had a love for Chanel so I was inspired to combine the two in a new illustration (below).

N.B the Chanel outfit featured is from the SS10 collection.

Also, I attended Fashion Fusion Expo 2010 as a backstage dresser (photos to come soon) and below is an illustration inspired by a backstage photo taken of an outfit by London-based fashion stylist, Hannah J.

London Fashion Weekend 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 14:15:00 +0000

So, I went to London Fashion Weekend last weekend and since it was my second time attending a major London fashion event (the other was Clothes Show Live), I was excited to see what it was all about.

As you all may have realized by now, I do love a good shopping deal and the outfit I wore to the show was comprised of items I picked up from various places at bargain prices.

Below is what I wore to the show - a blue Jacques Vert blouse that I picked up at a car boot sale for 50p, a red Hobbs skirt that was on sale for £19, a black belt that came with a top I bought from New Look and an Aldo necklace that was on sale with a 'two for the price of one' offer (I also got the black and silver version).

(Please excuse the facial expression - I wasn't even a little ready for that photo and sadly, it was the best one of the bunch.)

Even though the designer label prices at London Fashion Weekend were heavily discounted, I had a hard time finding items that I liked, were my size and were in my budget range. However, I did manage to pick up this SS08 Luella T-shirt for £25 which I think is really adorable.

What I was looking forward to more than anything else was the catwalk presentation and with looks from designers such as Betty Jackson, Herve Leger, Jasper Conran and Twenty8Twelve, I was not disappointed.

The show was presented by fashion journalist and TV presenter Louise Roe and was a compilation of designer looks from the SS10 runways which reflect some of the biggest trends of the season. Below are a few videos I made of the runway shows.

The first trend to hit the runway was 'Candy Rock' - soft, pastel colours and light, airy fabrics and romantic silhouettes. Featured designers included Jasper Conran, Herve Leger and Jaeger.

The second trend was Swallows & Amazons - described as 'Arthur Ransome meets Tim Burton', this trend 'combines layered mismatched pieces of luxe and denim with classic nautical tailoring and gothic leather'. Featured designers included Twenty8Twelve, Eley Kishimoto and Vivienne Westwood.

The final trend covered was Vintage Glamour - elegant, timeless vintage pieces that would fit seamlessly in the modern fashion world. Featured designers included Ossie Clarke, Zandra Rhodes and Biba.

We also got the pleasure of viewing Betty Jackson's entire Spring/Summer 2010 collection which was feminine, flirty and perfect for the upcoming warm weather.

Fashion Fusion Expo 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:21:00 +0000

Fashion Fusion Expo, a brand new London fashion event, will be held on March 12 & 13, 2010 at the Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London. This event will raise consumer awareness about fashion and sustainability with a theatrical line up of catwalk shows, expert hosted seminars and exclusive fashion shopping opportunities.

Stamo

This event will showcase the very best talents in sustainable fashion and accessories design from all around the world and it aims to attract 6000 visitors to show fashion can be both sustainable and stylish.

Nikolo Bertok

Christina Curry, model and presenter, is to introduce the Expo’s catwalk shows. Christina shares "I'm thrilled to be working with Fashion Fusion, and strongly believe in their mission to make the public more aware of sustainable fashion. I love quirky clothes from high street to vintage as much as the next girl but Fashion Fusion is opening up exciting new doors to ethnic prints, diverse styles, and the next wave of hot young designers at the same time as bringing the ethics of consumer fashion to the forefront!” Christina adds “Sustainable fashion needs to be the focus for the future and Fashion Fusion Expo 2010 will be the event to place it in the spotlight."

Choolips

With something for every taste and budget, the show offers a mixture of high street names, boutique brands, vintage inspirations, designer collections and individual labels for true fashion lovers. The fashion buying public will also get the chance to watch four exclusive catwalk shows each day, coupled with a great line up of expert seminars to learn more about the exciting world of sustainable fashion.

Juzi

Designers and exhibitors for Fashion Fusion Expo include:

Stamo - http://www.stamo.co.uk

Julia Smith - http://www.juliasmithfashion.co.uk

Juzi - http://www.juzionline.com

Trousers London - http://www.trouserslondon.co.uk

Choolips - http://www.choolips.com

NV London Calcutta - http://www.nvlondoncalcutta.com

Andaluss - http://andaluss.com

Nkya Designs - http://www.nkyadesigns.com

Side Effects - http://sideeffectsoflondon.co.uk

Asakeoge - http://www.asakeoge.com

Julia Smith

Opening times for Fashion Fusion Expo are 9am - 7pm each day and tickets are only £10 when ordered online at http://fashionfusionexpo.eventbrite.com, £8 for students and £15 at the door.

On March 13, there will also be an after party at Cafe de Paris, 3-4 Coventry Street, London.

Show your support for these up-and-coming designers by attending this fantastic event and also by passing this information on to any fellow fashion-lovers that may be interested in attending Fashion Fusion Expo.

For more information, visit http://www.fashionfusionexpo.co.uk.

By Malene Birger SS10

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:34:00 +0000

So chic and wearable. LOVE.

View the entire collection here.

Get it for way less - Chloé Bow-detailed Asymmetric Silk Blouse

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 14:56:00 +0000

Gorgeous, stylish designer clothing is unattainable for many of us but luckily there are many budget-friendly versions out there that can achieve a very similar look for much less than the original designer price.

This beautiful Chloé bow-detailed asymmetric silk blouse was a part of the Fall 2009 collection and retailed on Net-A-Porter at £1,295.

Chic, elegant and feminine, this blouse was worn by quite a few stylish fashion-lovers including Anna Dello Russo (below), the Fashion Director-at-Large and Creative Consultant at Vogue Nippon. She paired the blouse with a bright orange feather-detail silk Rochas skirt and a black and gold Louis Vuitton Speedy bag.

Below is a lovely and affordable alternative by ASOS which has similar features to the Chloé blouse such as the nude, silky fabric, asymmetric style and detailed sleeve. Granted, this ASOS blouse is missing the bow-detail on the arm which is what makes the Chloé blouse extra special but I still think it's really great deal.

ASOS Cut-Out Sleeve One Shoulder Top
Price: UK£22.00 (US$39.05)

Low on Colour, High on Style

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 05:35:00 +0000

After a dark and dreary winter, there's one thing that most people look forward to when Spring rolls around: bright, mood-enhancing colours.

However, this Spring will see many fashionistas in neutral tones and muted colours as this is a hot trend for the upcoming season.

Nude, grey, brown, khaki and other similar tones and colours were featured prominently at various Spring 2010 runway shows such as Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang, Celine and Balmain (below).

photos courtesy style.com

The trend has been dubbed utilitarian chic and is seen by some as a statement in response to the current economic state of the world.

According to designer Phillip Lim, "The utilitarian cycle is at a time when we are living in survival mode in terms of the economy."

Many individuals who can afford to be flashy and flaunt their ability to afford frills are now taking a more minimal approach to fashion, perhaps out of respect for those who can't.

This may or may not actually be the case but one thing is for certain - what the desaturated looks of the season lack in colour impact, they most certainly make up for in statement-making style.

The utilitarian fashion of 2010 ranges from soft and fluid feminine shapes to sharp and tailored menswear inspired pieces and the hottest trends such as harem pants, safari jackets as well as classic pieces such as the trench and oxford shirts are all being interpreted in an array of neutrals and subdued colours.

When colour is removed from the equation, it really forces you to observe and appreciate the actual design of the garment.

The high street and department stores have wasted no time in adapting the trend and some have even made this look a key feature in their new collections. Below are some of the clothing stores around London displaying their stylish but desaturated Spring looks.

Uniqlo

United Colors of Benetton

Fenwick

Basler

Pinko

Zara

Jigsaw

Of course, there are incredibly fashionable women on the streets of Paris, London and Stockholm, among others, who have interpreted this trend in their own distinctive ways and have been snapped on a number of street-style and fashion blogs.

photos courtesy style.com, blogs.elleuk.com, copenhagenstreetstyle.dk,
easyfashion.blogspot.com, stockholmstreetstyle.feber.se,
vanessajackman.blogspot.com and waynetippets.com

Plenty of stylish celebs have also been spotted at various events in dresses and ensembles which are only one or two shades away from their own skin tones.

Anne Hathaway wore a cream suit with a light brown blouse to announce the Academy Award Nominations 2010, Keri Hilson wore a nude mermaid-hem gown to the Grammy Awards 2010, Drew Barrymore donned an embellished champagne gown at the Golden Globes 2010 and Ginnifer Goodwin wore a light taupe dress to the Calvin Klein Men’s and Women’s Spring 2010 Collections Preview Benefit.

photos courtesy justjared.com and yahoo.com

If you think this trend is for you, take a look at the clothing suggestions below to help you zap the colour but pump up the style in your wardrobes this Spring.

Grey Lace Peep Toe Shoe Boot
Price: UK£45.00 (US$70.37)

ASOS Jersey Cuffed Trousers
Price: UK£20.00 (US$33.99)

The Belted Khaki Utility Jacket
Price: US$79.50

Shopping Frenzy Tote in Taupe
Price: US$34.00

AKIRA Draped Strapless Dress
Price: US$45.90

Silence & Noise Strong Shoulder Blouse
Price: US$58.00

Silk Cargo Skirt
Price: US$49.50

Interlock Stud Belt
Price: US$19.99

London Calling

noreply@blogger.com (Danz) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 22:24:00 +0000

Hey everyone!

Since moving to England in November, I'm still very into doing 'tourist-y' stuff and I've managed to do a bit of sightseeing around London in the past couple months. It really is an exciting city - there's so much to do and see and what I've seen so far is only a very small percentage of what is available.

As an aspiring Fashion Visual Merchandiser, it's the shop window displays that grab my attention the most because they're so beautiful and creative, they're all over London and I don't have to spend any money at all to appreciate them.

Over the holidays, I took some snaps of a few Christmas displays that I liked and I thought I'd share them with you.

Harvey Nichols

Harrods

Pinko

Zara

As I previously mentioned, I also visited the Fashion & Textile Museum in London a while ago where there was a small exhibition featuring the works of Marion Foale and Sally Tuffin, influential fashion design duo of the 1960s.

As everyone knows, in the fashion world, what goes around comes around and many of the pieces on display could, with some minor adjustments, very well fit into the wardrobes of today's fashionable women.

Foale & Tuffin Exhibition at the Fashion & Textile Museum

Tabitha Big Sleeve Floral Tea Dress
Price: UK£20.00 (US$31.90)

Nom De Plume Yaya Moto Jacket
Price: US$58.00

ASOS PETITE Exclusive Cropped Sleeve Lace Tunic Dress

Price: UK£40.00 (US$67.99)

Domino Print Dress
Currently out of stock

Elisha Contrast Trim Cardigan
Price: US$48.00

Below are a Foale & Tuffin photo spread and some of their fashion sketches.