Illusive Print

Fashion Week Report... NYFW Part 1

2012-02-14T10:25:00.000Z

Altuzarra

Well, fashion season has officially off to a flying start. First up was Mercedes Benz fashion week in New York. How crazy is it that it's time for the Autumn/ Winter shows already?! On the runway we are seeing a whole lot of meanswear & military inspired looks this season, alongside sheer fabrics, leather, studs & winter florals. In terms of colour, most designers have looked to the dark side, think deep navy, black, grey, maroon & army green. My personal highlights of the week so far have to be Derek Lam for his stunning floor length dresses & mixing of fabrics, Jill Stuart for mixing of prints on a line of cute dresses & separates, Mara Hoffman for taking a lighter approach with a global traveller vibe and Rachel Zoe for her oh so wearable line of tailored seperates. I will post more from NYFW on Thursday but for now I leave you with some eye candy from the shows so far! :)

Derek Lam

DKNY

Herve Leger by Max Azria

Jill Stuart

L.A.M.B.

Mara Hoffman

Rag & Bone

Rachel Zoe

What are your favourite collection from NYFW?

A Vintage Poster...

2012-02-11T19:41:00.002Z

So far my Saturday has been not so productive, I always get up with the best intentions but then something catches my attention & time flies by! :) I have been seeking out some new inspiration however and have found quite a few lovely things which I will post about this week. While looking around on Pintrest I discovered the work of 'A Vintage Poster'! These super cute prints are so simple yet carry so much impact. With hundreds of colours to choose from and the added option of custom prints, there are endless possibilities. I need something to hang in my kitchen above my breakfast table & the four below would be ideal! I love discovering the work of new artists & designers. This one is on my 'to watch' list for sure! Pop over now, there is 25% off when you buy 3 or more prints :) xXx

The above are a selection of my faves, which are yours?

Geometry...

2012-02-09T11:27:00.003Z

I've always been a pretty, delicate type of girl when it comes to textiles & pattern but ever since moving to the Big City my style & tastes have changed quite drastically. This applies to fashion, accessories, art & decor! I think coming from Scotland (which let's face it, isn't the most fashion forward of places), to London, which is so diverse & multi-cultural has allowed me to rediscover - almost reinvent myself & my tastes!

When my man & I moved into our little rental flat, we didn't put much thought into decor, a quick trip to Ikea & several hours of screws & confusing diagrams later, we had a furnished home! We've now been here for 6 months (wow, how time flies!) & are starting to take the time to give our place a focus & persona. One trend I am loving right now, is for bold, geometric patterns! Check out some of my fave pieces I'm currently coveting...!

1. Ikat Bowl, CWonder

2. Kew Embroidered Cushion, Missoni Home

3. Cool Breeze Waste Basket, ShopTen25

4. Sierra Wallpaper, Kimberley Lewis Home

5. Arteriors Guilded Wood Screen, Zinc Door

6. Key Cocktail Tray, Jill Rosenwald

What interior trends are you currently loving?

Quick Pic...

2012-02-04T12:14:00.000Z

My brand new baby bunny... Stella!! I love her so much already, she's so sweet.. a little shy but I'm sure she'll settle in soon!

Happy Weekend everyone whatever you get upto, I will be enjoying the last day of my holiday from work. Take care, xXx

BCBG Max Azria...

2012-01-27T12:13:00.000Z

The past few seasons, Max & Lubov Azria have taken a minimal approach, centred around the effortless dress that can be worn endlessly. This season they've injected a bold, youthful edge which keeps the collection contemporary.

Sports lux, was the underlying theme this Spring/ Summer, as it has been the past few years. This collection is set off perfectly with bold, saturated colours such as coral, navy, cyan & lemon. The graphic lines add some edginess to the otherwise delicate silk chiffon dresses. While some looks had hoodies, most had thigh high slits & almost all had a touch of exposed shoulder keeping the looks chic & sexy!

This summer is all about that minimal, effortless look which the Azria's have achieved perfectly with this collection. The wooden beaded sandals, slicked back hair & simple accessories ground the looks & let the dresses do the talking. Simple, fresh, chic... I want! :)

Brush Strokes...

2012-01-25T17:02:00.004Z

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With the New Year well & truly underway and with pay day just around the corner, I can focus a little more attention on my home :) Being a rented property, there's not a great deal I can do to change it so I'm on the hunt for some great art pieces to brighten up the walls!

I am absolutely in love with these abstract pieces from Cozamia & Cocoa+Hearts, what do you think? I'm not usually an abstract art lover but I love the rich patterns in these particular pieces... they could almost be mistaken for traditional Japanese textiles of which I AM a huge fan! Infact, I dedicated my final year dissertation to just that! Anyway, the work from these artists is just filled with energy & joy! Just looking at these stunning paintings makes me want to dig out my paints & create one for myself! Inspired! :)

Cozamia

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Cocoa & Hearts

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I'd love to know - Do you have any artwork in your home? What's your take on abstract art?

Short Stories...

2012-01-21T18:07:00.002Z

I must admit, I am a recent convert to the shorts + tights trends... I've never felt the combination suited me but now that I understand how to style them well... I LIVE in my shorts! Cute, Comfy & Chic... what's not to love!? The look works best with opaque tights, a floaty blouse & ankle boots!

If you are feeling more adventurous try textured or patterned tights just remember to stick to a block colour or simple motif top! My favourite thing about the look is how super flattering it can be - lengthens & slims legs - huge plus for a shorty like me! :p

Dress city shorts up for work with a pussy bow blouse & a blazer or for the weekend pair ripped denim shorts with a simple tee, chunky cardi & slouchy bag! Gotta love it!

I will be styling my short like this...

Dalmatian Print Blouse, Dorothy Perkins

Quilted Bag, Marc Jacobs

Rose Golden Watch, Michael Kors

Black Opaque Tights, Oasis

Gold Plated Fox Ring, Elizabeth & James

Jenks Bootie, Vince Camuto

Denim Shorts, H&M

Longline Blazer, Topshop

Gold Choker, Gogo Philip

Quick Pic...

2012-01-14T11:49:00.001Z

Have A Great Weekend Everyone :) ❤❤❤

Follow my photo streams on Tumblr & Pintrest ;)

Gifted... Christmas 2011

2012-01-12T15:22:00.003Z

1. Michael Kors Rose Golden Watch

This watch is absolutely stunning! I am a bit of a watch collector, I do have quite a few so was thrilled to receive this rose gold MK watch from my boyfriend, it is by far the best gift he has ever given me. It is a chunky watch which I love, I feel bare without something heavy on my wrist. The colour is just perfect; it is so lovely and special looking. It will be hard not to wear this everyday... love, love, love!!

2. Mavala Red Diamond Nail Varnish

A little stocking filler from my bf, it is a beautiful red sparkly nail polish that reminds me of Dorothy's shoes in the Wizard of Oz! I wore this on Christmas Day with a black dress and looked so glamorous and festive. This is only my second ever Mavala nail polish and I just love them. They come in mini bottles and the formulas are great, I will definitely be adding more to my ever growing collection.

3. Zebra Barrel Bag, River Island

I pretty much love any accessories from River Island, especially their bags & purses. I don't have many handbags and I do tend to use the same ones everyday. My parents bought me this little beauty for Christmas and I've been using it everyday since... it's the perfect size for everyday use, big enough to fit all my bits in but not too big that it's too heavy to carry around. I also love that it comes with a detachable shoulder strap! Anything that' versatile and goes with everything gets a huge thumbs up from me!

4. Leather Dalmatian Gloves

These gloves are gorgeous! You may have noticed I like fur & animal prints just a little bit so it’s like these gloves were made for me. :) My first ever pair of leather gloves, they keep my hands warm and look glamorous... what's not to love!

5. Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief, Clinique

By far my fave skincare product ever! I know, big statement but this is my miracle product! I first tried moisture surge when I got a free sample size during one of Clinique's fab bonus times - I highly recommend waiting for Bonus time to buy your Clinique products - the freebies are amazing! Anyway, my tiny 5ml version lasted me months! I took mine on holiday when I went to Egypt and it was perfect to repair my skin after long days in the sun. It is very refreshing on the skin, completely non greasy and doesn't feel heavy at all, it also makes a great base for makeup. For me, it leaves my skin feeling velvety soft & I don't need a primer as this does the job perfectly. Highly recommend!!!

6. Zebra iPhone Case, UUnique

My lovely parents bought me this and I love it! It's made from pony hair and has a built in metal stand. It's oh so stylish & practical! Love!

7. Grey & White Tuck Stitch Jumper, River Island

Another little gem from River Island, I have a really bad habit of wearing my boyfriends clothes - especially his jumpers so decided it was about time I get a few of my own. Again from my parents - how great is their taste btw... anyway, it's a beautiful soft shade of grey & white and has three-quarter length sleeves with a visible zip of the back. It's so cosy and perfect for throwing on during lazy days off!

I got so many other great gifts this year, well and truly spoiled but so grateful to everyone! Thanks guys!

What gifts have you given or received lately?

Deck the Halls...

2011-12-18T17:14:00.000Z

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I just love Christmas, don't you? From the cozy knits, comfort food, hot chocolate, sitting in front of the fireplace, the parties... everything! The best part of the festive season for me though, has to be the decorations! Here are some inspiration holiday interiors I've fallen in love with this year....

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What's your holiday decor style?

Let's Hear it for the Boys...

2011-12-17T17:49:00.000Z

Had a great reaction from my last Etsy Picks post that I've gone and done another! yey! This time some last minute gift ideas for the man in your life! Dad, Brother, Uncle, Husband, BF... I've got it covered! I know my man has his eye on a few things here... Enjoy!! :)

The original treasury can be viewed here.

Etsy Picks...

2011-12-07T12:30:00.000Z

Here are a few of my picks for the festive season! How adorable are the little felt robins and that hot water bottle cover - I love a chunky knit anything so this is a must have for me :) Happy Christmas shopping everyone! x

The original treasury can be viewed here.

Louis Vuitton RTW SS 2012....

2011-12-03T13:25:00.001Z

Marc Jacobs has created a truly beautiful collection for Louis Vuitton SS 2012. Debuted during Paris Fashion Week, this seasons sees a complete 180 from last seasons dark fetish inspired show, this whimsical delicate collection takes us to a fresh new place, "After the hardness of Fall, we wanted something gentle and kind, fragile but strong, too,"

Everything about this collection is 'nice', a word not often used when describing fashion, nice for the most part implying mundane. For LV's show however, nice sums it up perfectly in the most positive way. The pretty pastel colour palette just speaks of springtime and the stunning carousel in which the looks floated by like airy clouds takes us back to our childhoods and visiting the fair, eating candy floss & ice cream.

The silhouettes remain strong though, the delicacy lies in the fabrics and techniques, crochet, lace, sheer blouses, sweet peter pan collars and not to mention the stunning alligator jackets. All of this topped off with natural makeup, feathery lashes and princess tiaras! I am in LOVE ❤❤❤

Tweet Prints...

2011-12-02T11:20:00.000Z

New prints have just landed at Illusive Print! The 'Tweet' collection features 3 different quirky phrases that would look great around any home! They are the perfect gift this Christmas! :)

"Home Tweet Home"

"Bon Appe-Tweet"

"Tweet Dreams"

The prints are now available from my Etsy shop when so be sure to pop over and check them out. If you follow me on Facebook or Twitter, you will receive 10% off yay! Enjoy & Happy Friday!

Now in Store...

2011-11-24T19:00:00.000Z

It's finally time to re launch the Illusive Print online store! yay!

We have launched the Christmas Sparkle range of cards but new products will be in store very soon :)

Take a peek at the 2011 Christmas Card collection! :)

There are special discounts for Facebook & Twitter fans for a limited time only, get yours quick!

Available here:

Etsy
Big Cartel

Roberto Cavalli RTW SS 2012...

2011-11-23T21:44:00.001Z

Time to share with you another of my favourite collections for SS 2012, this time it's Roberto Cavalli's collection.

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A slight departure for Cavalli with this incredible collection but refreshingly so. In place of the usual chiffon animal print maxis were sequins, pastels, pleats, drop waists highlighted with stunning floral & baroque prints. With the colour story leading us from little gold dresses to black pleats which showed off peekaboo prints, each piece in this fresh contemporary collection exudes opulence & a level of craftsmanship to rival that of Paris' finest couturier's. The looks are styled to perfection with messy chignon's and smoky eyes, the gowns topped with stunning embellished blazers. Cavalli is a designer that I wouldn't usually look to when choosing my favourite shows, however I am in love with this collection and cannot wait to see what Roberto has in store for the future. Enjoy the show. x

What did you think of the Cavalli SS 2012 collection?

Quick Pic...

2011-11-18T12:17:00.001Z

Look what popped through my door this morning! Yay! So excited to finish them off & pop them up on my Etsy shop! Sooo exciting! Hoping to get them in my store by Sunday night so as always, eyes peeled people!

My Style Rules... Part 1

2011-11-14T11:39:00.001Z

My number 1 style essential has to be the blazer! I have quite a few blazers in my collection as they come in many shapes, sizes and textures these days! Classic Tuxedo, lace, sequin, leather, printed...... the list goes on!

Here are my rules to rock the blazer:

- Roll up the sleeves to show off your wrist candy and soften the look
- Wear simply with jeans and a tee for a dressy weekend look
- Belt it to show off your curves!
- Wear with everything from a cocktail dress, mini skirt, jeans, maxi dress, leggings.... everything!

1. Sequin Suit Jacket, Mango

2. Three Quarter Sleeve Blazer, Topshop

3. Claret Tux Blazer, Dorothy Perkins

4. Sammy leather-trimmed crepe tuxedo blazer, Elizabeth and James

Blog Stalking...

2011-11-13T02:26:00.000Z

As a new blogger I am a series self confessed blog stalker! I read all sorts of blogs on a ~~daily~~ hourly basis! I am obsessed! It's like turning the page of a never ending magazine every time I read a new post! It's a great way to learn about new designers/ products/ stores/ recipes/ events.... the list goes on. I have narrowed down my huge list to my Top 5 must read fashion & interior blogs!

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I just love Jennifer Ramos' blog, Made By Girl - it's updated almost every day which is fab as there's always something new to look at. This is my favourite blog at the moment & that's due to the sheer diversity of content that Jen shares. She includes everything from fashion & interiors to food & travel - I always look forward to seeing what she is talking about next plus have you seen her home? Jealous!!

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I need this girls wardrobe now! Seriously! I've not long discovered this blog by Julia Sarinana but since I have, I can't stay away! Sincerely Jules has become my personal style advisor! Her style is effortless & a great mix of designer & high street! Who wouldn't want to steal her style?!

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I discovered L.A. in the Bay after Lauren guest blogged on Made by Girl last week. Her blog is just stunning & I'm a huge fan of her Wednesday Wishlist posts!

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Bowie Style is the name behind Print & Pattern! This blog is dedicated to the world of surface & pattern design & has been so successful that there are now 2 books of the blog! I have been following P&P since 2006 when I was studying for my degree and still visit daily to see what's new in the pattern world!

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Style Me Pretty indeed! This blog is so beautiful! Filled with photographs of the worlds most stunning weddings, I dare you not to want to organise a wedding asap! Just beautiful!

What are your top 5 must read blogs?

Ode to Typography...

2011-11-12T12:21:00.001Z

A little something I'm working on at the moment. I am obsessed with typography & have a new fave font each month! I thought I would put my obsession to good use & make a calendar to showcase my fave fonts! Watch this space for more pics! Oh and the Christmas Sparkle cards will be available very soon - they are at the printers as I type! :))

Quick Pic...

2011-11-06T19:35:00.002Z

This weekend I've been picking out paint & window dressings for my bedroom & living room. Popped to the Dulux shop today to pick up some samples for my fireplace in the living room! The colours I chose to try out were Crystal Grey, Quartz Flint, Grey Steel 4 and Grey Steel 6 (top to bottom). They all looked much darker on the walls than in the cans but think we found a winner with Grey Steel 6 - I can't wait to get it on the wall and get my makeshift fireplace in place :D Next up... curtains, rug, lamps, mirror...... oh my, so much to do....

Christmas Sparkle...

2011-10-30T12:25:00.001Z

Woop! It's almost November which means it's time to start Christmas shopping! I know... where does the time go?! I really missed not having any Christmas cards to share with you all last year but not to worry... there's a new collection for 2011! The range is called Christmas Sparkle & features 10 simple but fresh & contemporary designs featuring polar bears, arctic foxes, robins & of course it wouldn't be Christmas without a reindeer or two! The cards will be digitally printed onto the highest quality card & finished by hand using Swarovski crystals! I hope to have the cards stocked by mid November but for now here's a sneak peek :)

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

What I Bought... October 2011

2011-10-23T12:42:00.004+01:00

1. Nicole Clear Pendant Light, Next Home

I love, love, love this mini chandelier. I was given a Next gift card as a leaving present from my workmates in Glasgow so decided to use it to get some pieces for my new flat. I bought this pendant for my lounge as it has an original ceiling medallion so it was perfect for there! It is clear so when the light is on it creates the most stunning shadows over the ceiling! It was only £25 but looks super expensive - one of the best buys I've had lately! :)

2. Zebra Canvas, Ikea

After doing my Tux Luxe interiors post (here) I had to go out and get some zebra for my home! This canvas was ideal, my room was very white so this adds just the right amount of drama and impact! I'm so loving animal prints right now - snake, leopard, zebra... I want them all!

3. Gogo Philip Bangle, Topshop

After spending an hour in Topshops Oxford Street store looking for the perfect gold bangle I stumbled upon the Gogo Philip range! wow! My new fave jewelery brand! The range has the perfect balance of quirky vs chic which is exactly how I'd describe my style! This bangle looks fab stacked with my Guess gold watch, I'm so going back for more!

4. Stacking Bird Cups, Dwell

My lovely man is a manager for Dwell so now and then he brings home some lovely little home treats! I have been lusting over these cups for as long as I can remember so was overjoyed when I spotted them on my kitchen counter! I think they are discontinued now but there are similar versions on Dwell's site :) They have some fab pieces right now - next on my wishlist is the union jack mirror and the ever popular Damien Hirst style diamante skull!

5. Red Jeans, Zara

All summer I hunted for the perfect pair of red jeans and I finally found them - albeit a bit late! I absolutely love Zara but I tend to only buy formal pieces from them. These jeans were only £19.99! I know! How good is that?! They have a little stretch in them and aren't too bright so are perfect to take you into Winter! I'm wearing mine with a chiffon blouse and leopard belt but they would look equally as good with a chunky neutral knit and boots :)

6. Rafiki T Bar Sandals, Office

Leopard - check, Gold brooch detail - check, Comfy - check! I spotted these gorgeous little sandals in Topshop about a month ago but they were sold out of my size. Since then I've hunted high and low to make them mine - finally I found them and bonus - they were on sale! I got them for half price at £25 - I love a good bargain, I do... especially when it's you walk away with something as cute as these! I really wanted them in black but I settled and went for the cream - can't win them all! :))

Did you grab any bargains this month? Tell me in the comments :)

Quick Pic...

2011-10-17T14:44:00.001+01:00

I finally got some zebra for my home... I love it and better yet, it was only £30 from Ikea! wow! I'm not the biggest Ikea fan by any means, but I have to admit, they have some great decor pieces :) This canvas looks perfect above my sofa in the living room, definitely a great buy!

xXx

Chanel RTW SS 2012

2011-10-12T14:16:00.000+01:00

Karl Lagerfeld & Florence Welch

I had to share this video with you, it is so gorgeous. For this collection, the genius behind Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld opted for an underwater inspired collection. This was reflected perfectly in the setting for the spectacular runway show, set amongst huge bright white corals, shells, seahorses & waves the collection was fresh, modern & oh so pretty. Florence Welch provided the soundtrack for the show, she stood all in white inside a giant shell reminiscent of Botticelli's Venus. I am always left feeling inspired & lifted after watching a Chanel show :)

What's your thoughts on the Chanel SS 2012 collection?