The Fashion Edition

Fashion Awareness Direct (FAD) Fashion Futures Final

2014-09-04T14:51:00.000+01:00

So September has rolled around again, which means it's fashion month! Exciting, eh?

Well, I'm excited about this month in particular because I've been lucky enough to be offered the opportunity to attend FAD's Fashion Future's final at London Fashion Week! How great is that?!

....What's that you say? What the blooming hell is FAD, you ask? Well then, let me enlighten you.

Fashion Awareness Direct, more simply FAD, is a registered charity in the UK which creates creative opportunities for young people between 15 and 25 years. Their expertise and workshops enlighten young people of how to realise their potential and bridge that daunting (speaking from experience here, guys) gap between education and successful careers in the fashion industry.

I was part of a one-day FAD workshop when I attended the Intensive Journalism course I was blabbing about a couple months ago. We went out and did a little street style photography, shop reports and created trend mood-boards based on our findings. I really enjoyed the experience and made some great contacts, which got me this show reporting gig for the FAD Fashion Futures final.

Finalist, Daniella, with her final design.

FAD offer several different programs, but their main program is the Fashion Futures course - which this year celebrates an astounding 10 years of inspiring young people!! This consists of learning all the practical skills required to design and create a garment.

Toni with her final design

This year 23 finalists who've passed through the program are showcasing their final design at London Fashion Week. You can learn more about the finalists here.

Renee with her final design. All images sourced from FAD blog.

The skills FAD provide participants are incredibly valuable, "It's not enough anymore to have 3 A's at A-Level", says finalist Daniela, and she's right. Programs like FADs' are helping future creatives to stand out from the crowd when applying to Universities and jobs. Charities like FAD are a necessity for helping young people learn more about the industry; if you can spare any money, any and all donations will be of a huge benefit to the charity and the future generations of creatives and designers in England.

DONATE!

I'm really looking forward to seeing all of the finalists offerings in person at Fashion Week, and to sharing my show report with you all.

All the best,

Rachel

Follow @Ray_Callender

Dr. Martens: Heritage British Brand

2014-09-04T13:55:00.000+01:00

Always at the forefront of British alternative and youth culture, Dr. Martens began life humbly as the boots for policemen and industrial workers. But in the 1950's when youth came to realise they no longer wanted to look like their parents, Dr. Martens came into play.

It was the skinheads who first adopted the boot, prior to Pete Townsend of The Who donning a pair of classic 1460s on stage and bringing the brand to the attention of the masses. Soon after, a pair of Docs became a part of every youth culture's look.

Today, Dr. Martens are putting their prices of two of their classic designs back to their 1960s original price...£3.

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I didn't personally fancy fighting my way through the carnage on Carnaby Street to get a pair, but good luck to all of those at the 4 stores involved.

Dr. Marten's current campaign asks us: what do you stand for?

Me? I stand for adventure, equality and freedom (especially when I'm wearing my floral 1461s).

What do you stand for?

Rachel

Follow @Ray_Callender

Designers/ Up and Coming Talent: Jane Bowler

2014-09-04T13:03:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone. I hope everyone has had an enjoyable summer break - time to get back to work though, unless you're a designer like Jane Bowler, whose been working hard all summer promoting her kick-starter project.

Azealia Banks shot by Rankin for Hunger Magazine

It's likely that perhaps you haven't heard of Jane Bowler - I myself hadn't until I went on a fashion design course at the V&A museum in April run by the young designer in question.

My work from Bowler's workshop at the V&A. Via her Instagram.

If I remember correctly, Jane Bowler studied her foundation degree at the brilliant Loughborough University (the UK's top sports university - but also acclaimed for their art department) before continuing to study at the Royal College of Art. Her final collection consisted of recycled plastic bath mats, and the plastic aesthetic just...stuck.

AW11 fringing

What Jane can do with plastic is quite incredible: fringing, armour-like geometric garments, cutout jackets and even knitwear pieces. And don't get me started on her accessories; headpieces a-plenty in all shapes and forms, necklaces and earrings made from iridescent painted neoprene. Bowler's work is so original that it's got to the point where I can go 'ah, it's a Bowler.'

Ellie Goulding, Glamour Magazine

Her artistry and vision is paying off. Jane Bowler garments have garnered the attention of big-name celebrities (Nicki Minaj is one of the latest to buy into Bowler) and publications desperate to use her unique garments in shoots shot by photographic royalty.

Here are some of my favourite pieces from Bowler's collections so far:

AW13 Tesselate

I love Bowler's headpieces, as shown on the left. The jacket on the right is made of plastic and apparently is really uncomfortable to wear - but magazines love novelty items like these for styling shoots.

AW14

SS13 Undercurrent

The way Bowler has used plastic to recreate fish-scales (or mermaids - let your imagination run away with you) for the Undercurrent collection is perfect for layering.

As is the AW14 collection. Featuring plenty of garments with cutouts allows for ample layering opportunities.

SS14

AW12 Transcendency

The plastic in the SS14 collection almost resembles feathers on the bodice. I love the way the look created is contrasting - it emphasises that featherlike detail on the top.

Jane's fringing is absolutely enthralling to me; the movement these garments create is very appealing.

AW12 Transcendency

The pieces of the Transcendency collection show the pure technical ability of Bowler and her team. The plastic is manipulated to create voluminous sleeves.

There is a variety of silhouettes in the collection, and again - brilliant accessories. The collection is tied together with subtle links between garments (see the fringing on the sleeves of the garment on the far right), aiding in cohesion.

If you've got a taste for Bowler designs now that I've showcased her work so far in her career, you can help to fund her future ventures - and in return own a piece of Jane Bowler artistry - by buying her limited edition and one-off designs through her Kickstarter page.

All images via Jane Bowler's website

Treat yourself! And be happy in knowing that you are supporting not only an emerging designer, but also London's thriving fashion scene. (Jane runs workshops for those who are interested in garment and jewellery design - not just at the V&A but in her own studios.) Let's help London maintain its status as the fashion capital for new talent and innovation.

Keep on top of what's new with Jane Bowler designs by:

Liking her Facebook page
Checking out Kickstarter
Following her on Instagram: @janebowler
Following her on Twitter

I hope you enjoyed this post and will keep an eye out for Jane Bowler's work, and help fund her SS15 Lookbook and Fashion Film.

All the best - and happy Fashion month! It's going to be a busy one.

Rachel

Follow @Ray_Callender

Lookbook/ Lola Paris

2014-08-09T10:00:00.000+01:00

2-piece velour suit and silk blouse in autumnal shades.

L-O-L-A Lola, lo lo lo lo Lola! (I really hope you know what I'm singing, otherwise this just comes across as plain weird...)

Hello all, I'm writing from rainy/sunny/I-just-can't-make-my-mind-up France. Me being my obsessive self, I bought - let's see... - 6 French fashion magazines (they're only a euro!) within the first two days of my week-long stay. What can I say? When in France, do as the fashion savvy french do!

I won't lie, despite sudying GCSE and AS Level French, my grasp of the language isn't quite fluent enough for me to read without fault through all of the articles, so I've taken to flipping happily, looking at the pretty pictures. And - oh! - what a beauty I've found!

French Glamour's final page flaunted Lola Paris, a brand previously unknown to me, so I did a little spelunking and poured myself over their vision for Autumn Winter 2014. The book features some Burberry Prorsum F/W 2014-esque blankets paired with a belt and sleeveless shift, beautiful peacoats - and don't get me started on the suits!!

The smart-casual cool of suits paired with trainers is very on-trend - if you care about keeping up with trends - but also darn aesthetically pleasing. The unexpected pairing of trainers with dresses is something I already do (hey, I'm a sucker for comfort) - but suits...I love the look so much that I'm looking to invest in a two-piece!

Here are my favourite pieces from the Lola Paris F/W 2014 collection.

Love the monochrome contrast on the left look. The right look just screams Burberry, right?

I can't begin to express my adoration for this look, style reference!!

All images sourced from here.

For the full lookbook, check out Lola Paris' website. They've recently opened three new boutiques in Paris, and another in Lyon - so lucky you if you're a local!

All the best from lightning-storm France!

Info/ Journalism Tips!

2014-08-02T19:24:00.003+01:00

Hallo everyone. Since last we spoke I attended this fantastic journalism course with T!Media. Being so inspired by the course I felt inclined to create a fresh start in the blogosphere. No - this is not the end of The Fashion Edition, but it is the beginning of my new blog, Gun & a Pack of Sandwiches!

The difference between the two? Well here I mainly post fashion-related things, but on my new squeeze I'll be posting any and everything under the sun; being free of the word 'Fashion' in my blog name is rather liberating when it comes to writing, I must say!

I thought I'd share some of my tips picked up on the journalism course as I know that many of my fellow bloggers - and indeed you readers - are interested in pursuing a career in writing or journalism.

Quick Tips:

Get WORK EXPERIENCE. Experience shows that you truly are interested in becoming a journalist and are proactive in pursuing this desire. Having experience in journalism before application to a job will separate you from other applicants. TIP: Start off targeting small local publications as you have a greater chance of being accepted. This also goes for getting a job. Start small: smaller companies are likely to have more tasks to issue you, whereas bigger corporations will probably leave you to do the filing and make cups of tea. You DON'T NEED A DEGREE. All of the journalists who've presented to us so far have declared that most journalists don't have a degree - it's experience that is important. If you do want to do a degree media studies is not recommended. A solid English degree, or other essay writing subject will suffice - that's if you're convinced university is the place for you.

...For the rest of the tips, read on here. And, if that's not enough, there are 10 more great tips from ex-special correspondent journalist and author, Edna Fernandes!

Toodlepip!

Rachel

Projects/ Bugged Magazine: Get Published!

2014-06-03T09:53:00.003+01:00

Hallo everyone. So since running that Nike 10K (it was fab by the way, very proud of myself) I have finished my AS exams! Freedom...for approximately 4 days before returning to school to start my A2 courses. Ah well, trying to put my time to good use.

And this is what has happened!

I have decided to launch an independent magazine. Well, not decided as such but the idea kind of materialised, and I grasped at it as any creative would.

The concept is a "guerrilla magazine, striving to bring an end to corporate-controlled media and restore freedom of speech and creativity, with your help."

I have had subscriptions to Elle and Vogue since 2008 and since getting into iD magazine and Dazed & Confused, Pop and Love I have begun to see how commercialised magazines such as Elle and Vogue are. I felt a little like the focus of such magazines is on selling the latest fashions and make-up and informing you how you should look, more than celebrating the artisans behind the industry. Dazed and iD - as I've grown older and more aware of the corporate-control backing the media - have been my go-to (and I'm sort of a punk at heart, zines from the 70s have been a huge inspiration). As independent magazines I find them more relatable: they rarely, if ever, have features dedicated to next seasons 'must-buys'. Through Dazed and iD I'm learning more about whats going on in the world than I ever could through the promotional pages of the more mainstream magazines.

~~Perhaps~~ With age I've lost my naivety and have become cynical of the industry I once idolised and adored. I guess it's a good thing in the end as now I have developed a concept of my own that has me very excited. And hopefully you too!

Bugged Magazine

So the idea is that Bugged Magazine is sort of a community project, anyone can contribute content. Each issue has a theme that we want to tackle - readers can suggest themes and this will inform my teams choice - and anyone who wants to be involved can send in their creative responses to the theme, be they literary: written opinions, short stories, anecdotes, memories, playlists, poetry, or anything else; or visually creative: illustrations, artwork, photography, graphic design, fashion/style, make-up etc. If your a performance artist, like a musician/dancer/actor, then we can review your performance/latest album or interview your band etc.

Bugged Magazine is going to be a platform for independent creatives to get acknowledgement for their work by other likeminded individuals, and just speak up and express opinions. Tabloids warp the facts so often just to increase sales, only showing the reader what they want you to see.

Bugged is written by people for people and different opinions will be shown regarding each topic to give a rounded view of potential thoughts regarding issues that concern the readers.

Everyone receives full credit for their opinions and work (retaining ownership rights) and links to personal websites/social media so that the discussion can continue outside of the magazine and work be further celebrated.

Anyways...I'm waffling.

I'd really love any of you readers out there to be a part of this. It is a magazine based in and around London, but I think its important that creatives from around the world are celebrated too. Bugged will be for anyone who has something to say or show.

Bugged Magazine

The first issue is themed "Getting to Know You"and if any of you have something they would like to contribute then I'd love to see it and potentially publish it. Anything that doesn't get chosen for publish will still be promoted across Bugged Magazine's social media platforms, so we ca still share the love.

Any submissions can be sent to buggedmagazine@outlook.com or through our Tumblr page where the T&Cs can be found.

So yes, I'd love for you to get involved with this magazine, I think it could be an amazing community project for us all.

Connect with the magazine to stay in the loop, it'd be awesome to have you on board:

Twitter: @BuggedMagazine

Facebook

Tumblr

Instagram: @BuggedMagazine

Google Connect: +Bugged Magazine

Would love to hear your thoughts - feel free to comment!

Love

Fitness/ Nike Women's 10K Run: We Own The Night

2014-05-09T18:25:00.000+01:00

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For me, its exam time again and boy has it come around fast! This time last year it was year 11 leavers day and marked the beginning of my GCSE examinations and, once those had been and gone, the most awesome summer of my life thus far.

But its back again and this time the stakes are higher. A-levels, 'the gate way to your future', they say. How daunting, no?

Unlike last year, I am ridiculously demotivated and stress levels are stupidly high. I seem to be concerned about failing yet at the same time I want to avoid my work completely. Bit of a paradox. Anyways I have mastered the art of procrastination over the past couple months, but now I have found myself taking part in the greatest procrastination of them all: a 10K run...

Why I have done this to myself, I don't quite know but hey! I'm up for new experiences and a challenge - despite hating exercise passionately. And what a concept too. Starting at 8pm, 10,000 women (but of course by law male entrants are allowed too) will set off to complete the 10K. All finishers earn themselves a necklace designed by Alex Monroe, and can have a little celebratory dance to Nick Grimshaw's DJ set at the after party.

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So tomorrow instead of revising late into the night you can find me pounding the pavement around Victoria Park in London, probably in pain, probably wishing I'd stayed home with a cup of tea, some McVities and the godawful Wuthering Heights.

Wish me luck!

World Cup Fashion/ Footballers & Significant Others To Watch For

2014-04-10T19:07:00.001+01:00

In just a few months' time people all over the world will be turning their gaze toward Brazil, with the World Cup set to begin on June 13. And make no mistake, this is a world event that captures the imaginations of people for all sorts of different reasons beyond sport - as much as I love football, there can be lulls in the excitement.

Sure, the action on the pitch will undoubtedly be outstanding - and hopefully this time round it won't be heartbreak for England - but the spectacle of it all, the patriotic attitudes, is fascinating from a cultural standpoint as well, and fashion will certainly be a part of it!

The football world is full of fashion icons, both among the players themselves, and particularly, many of their wives and girlfriends. Growing up so close to Chelsea Football Club's training ground and practically having footballers for neighbours, I have witnessed firsthand the style of the WAGS after many run-ins with Louise Redknapp and Toni Terry. So let's take a look at some of the most stylish figures, on teams and on the sidelines, that we can expect to keep an eye on this summer in Brazil.

The Players:

David Beckham

It goes without saying that Beckham is a fashion icon, and though he is not technically a player anymore, he'll likely put in an appearance at the World Cup. Even during his playing days, Beckham was known nearly as much for his modeling work and good looks as for his talent on the pitch!

Cristiano Ronaldo

ATP Tennis Finals

Not only one of the best players in the world, Ronaldo is also one of the best looking and most stylish footballers currently in action. The Portuguese superstar may not get too much of a chance to flaunt his style during the Cup, but if you watch him play and want a glimpse at his more fashionable side, AskMen wrote a piece on just what makes him a style icon.

Mario Balotelli

Balotelli

Mario Balotelli is weird in every sense of the word. The entertaining accounts of his stylish car being filled with rotting fish by team-mates is enough to go by. He's one of the best young talents in football; he's had numerous awkward brushes with authority; and he could lead Italy on a deep run in this World Cup. But Balotelli knows how to make a statement off the pitch as well. Specifically, he's known for bold hairstyles and rather eccentric fashion displays.

Ashley Cole

Ashley Cole and Jay Z

Known for his sleek, classy style, long time English defender Ashley Cole actually doesn't seem like a shoe-in for this year's World Cup. Sporting news and betting tip site Betfair recently did a write-up of several players with work to do to make the national team, and Cole was on the list. Fashion lovers may prefer things that way, as Cole cuts an incredibly suave image when he's not playing.

The Significant Others:

Victoria Beckham

Victoria Beckham

Just as David Beckham will likely put in an appearance, good old Posh Spice will probably show up as well, and that's always a fashion event worth tuning in to. The beautiful Mrs. Beckham has become such a style icon over the years that she now hosts her own website for fashion, accessories, and images, not to mention having shown her label at countless fashion weeks.

Irina Shayk

Irina Shayk

Russian model Irina Shayk has a claim as the most stunning of all famous footballer wives and girlfriends, so perhaps it's only natural that she's married to Cristiano Ronaldo. A former Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover model, Shayk has taken part in numerous modelling and acting endeavours and has always stunned in both bold and classy ways. One glance at Shayk's Instagram account reveals everything from gorgeous bikini photos to high-end fashion, with carefree, casually stylish looks in between. She'll certainly be one to watch for during the World Cup.

Coleen Rooney

Coleen

Coleen Rooney, the wife of English star Wayne Rooney, has always been a sort of casual fashion icon. Rooney doesn't seem as if she's seeking to stun every time she heads out in public, and yet she has always made an impact with her style. Just earlier this month, Manchester Evening News posted an article following the Grand National horse race at Aintree pointing out Rooney's fabulous pink outfit (Mrs. Rooney is a frequent visitor at high-profile horse racing events), and she seemed to wear it in a delightfully casual manner. Rooney has also become a representative for the retail giant Littlewoods.

Ilary Blasi

Ilary Blasi

The wife of veteran Italian star Francesco Totti, who seems likely to be in line for one last World Cup run this summer, Blasi is one of the biggest names in football fashion. An Italian model and occasional television personality, she has always been closely tied to the fashion world—and always looks stunning. Style Bistro highlights a delightful range of her looks, from casual to formal and all extremely stylish. Let's hope we see a few similar looks if she makes the trek to Brazil!

The truth is, most people close to prominent footballers tend to find ways to look wonderful. - be it the expendable cash and our expectations of how those of fame should look. But these are certainly some names and faces to keep an eye out for if you're watching this summer's action with an interest in fashion!

Lookbook/ Kate Moss x Topshop

2014-04-09T11:12:00.001+01:00

Kate's back

Printed blouse, Kate x Topshop

Kate Moss, model extraordinaire and pretty much the British fashion icon, is back for a 50-piece - yes, 50 piece, capsule collection at the high-street favourite, Topshop. Moss used to frequently design pieces for Topshop but that partnership ended a couple years ago. But she's back! The collection will be everywhere on the 30th of April.

There's something about Kate that oozes 'rockstar': the fame, the money, the goddess-like presence? Many a woman would love to be towering in her favoured Christian Louboutin pumps. Whatever it is, I find that she is one of the best style references for festival season in particular. Perhaps its her beloved vintage wardrobe?

Kate's first Glastonbury with Johnny Depp, 1996

Glastonbury, 2003

Isle of Wight, 2006

Glastonbury, 2004, source for all festival photos

Many of the new pieces for Topshop have that classic Kate vintage feel, and are even some of her old designs but revamped, which are perfect for festival season. Here are some of my favourite pieces that I'll fight you for in Topshop.

Lace up aztec print shorts, kinda Isabel Marant-y

Paisley trousers, awesome!

Leather tassel jacket

Crotchet lace dress

If you want to see the entire collection, head over to Nylon. Really looking forward to this capsule, gonna be a stunner!

I have a couple festivals I'm excited about attending this summer - Reading, WOMAD and Latitude -so I'll definitely be looking towards Moss for inspiration.

Over and out.

RIP Peaches Geldof

2014-04-07T20:52:00.003+01:00

Peaches Geldof has passed away at the age of 25. This is so shocking and such a sad situation seeing as the singer and actress has left behind a husband and two sons, similar to how her own mother passed.

RIP Peaches.

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Music/ Molotov Cocktail

2014-04-06T15:13:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone. Today I thought I'd let you know about this really great band that I found out about recently: Molotov Cocktail.

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They've recently released a new album and I'm lucky enough to be seeing them performing live tonight in Brighton. Their opening night was a complete success I've been told: a neon themed night of fun and games and sweat sweat sweat! The new album is called Carnival Flower and is so different to my usual music tastes (primarily rock/indie) - despite listening to a broad range of genres - yet perhaps it's Molotov Cocktail's ability to cross all kinds of genres is what makes the band so special.

So what kind of music is it, I hear you ask. Well...the 6-piece band, fronted by Game of Thrones actress and former Harry Potter cast member, Natalia Tena (Nymphadora Tonks), define themselves as Gypstep. With spanish undertones - occasional lyrics too - and plenty of brass, Molotov Cocktail are guaranteed to get you working up a sweat.

Hope everyone enjoys the final hours of the weekend - oh and the Easter break if you're fortunate like me and aren't working/at school.

Here's Something for the Weekend! And hopefully I shall get some good photos tonight for you all to see.

Follow the band on Google Connect +MolotovJukebox
Or on Twitter @Molotov_Jukebox
And Facebook /mojuband

Designers/ Dunhill

2014-03-23T21:09:00.000+00:00

Vivienne Westwood

Richard Nicoll

After a superior London Fashion Week this February, with trends aplenty and stunning collections across the board I've been incredibly inspired by the new power play on the catwalk. It looks like the woman who means business is on the minds of many designers for F/W 2014.

Paul Smith

There was masculine tailoring - a pinstripe here and there - not just on the catwalk but in the glossies too.

I don't know about you but I'm a sucker for the printed media. LOVE Magazine is one of my personal favourites for their exquisite editorials and shoots - the photo appreciator that I am. I picked up the latest issue the other day and was drawn to Dunhill's latest campaign which reminded me of this seasons silhouettes. Yes, its menswear, but a lot of the designers took inspiration from such masculinity for their womenswear collections - not to forget the return of the heritage trend and the resulting classic tailoring that Alfred Dunhill is so eponymous for.

Dunhill S/S Campaign. Model Craig McDean Source

Alfred Dunhill, known mainly just by Dunhill, is just that kind of heritage brand that inspires womenswear designers to integrate masculinity to their collections.

Alfred Dunhill breathed new life into his fathers namesake brand in 1893, which had been a saddlers. At a time where it was mainly the rich who could afford a car, Alfred Dunhill saw a gap in the market for car accessories and thus the business was renamed 'Dunhill Motorities' selling "everything but the motor."

From goggles to car horns to picnic sets and then watches, Dunhill branched out even further, inventing the rearview mirror and developing a product specifically to make smoking in cars easier. His interest in the fashionable art of smoking, Alfred opened a tobacco store and then pipe factory; the cigarette brand didn't take long to follow. Without these new enterprises, it is unlikely that he would have been commissioned for that gunmetal lighter that Connery flourishes in his first Bond appearance - thus resulting in a longstanding relationship with the Bond enterprise.

Alfred Dunhill S/S 2011 @LFW

The Dunhill brand joined the highly acclaimed Richemont Group in 1998, a highly selective group containing only the most luxurious labels, alongside Cartier and Mont Blanc.

Such a heritage brand, isn't is going to be a bit dated for the modern market? With a refreshed design team in 2005, the brand has reaffirmed its dominance in the menswear atelier industry, updating the aesthetic of the clothes and accessories for the modern man. Dunhill even kitted out Great Britain's Olympic team - rather dashing.

Louis Smith in Dunhill, Source

So with heritage being a huge hit on the catwalks and off, gents, why not look to the classic British brand for your wardrobe staples. And ladies take inspiration from Dunhill in preparation for Fall/Winters masculine influence.

And that concludes my look into one of my favourite trends for A/W '14: heritage, with a masculine twist for the womenswear branch. So I leave you with some of my favourite pieces from Dunhills new arrivals, on the right are some similar, perhaps more affordable pieces: top scarf by Glen Lossie, Joseph elbow-patch jumper, and blazer by Asos.

Enjoy the new season!

LFW Trends Summary/ Heritage

2014-02-22T17:49:00.001+00:00

London Fashion Week has been an absolute success, demonstrating the seasons trends in perfect form. One that I personally love is the Heritage trend. Here are my favourite looks from the catwalk this season.

Modernised macintosh at Pringle of Scotland. Source.

Vivienne Westwood Red Label Source.

Christopher Raeburn

Daks

Eudon Choi

Felder Felder

Marcus Lupfer

Until next time.

LFW Trends Summary/ Metallics

2014-02-21T12:00:00.000+00:00

Metallics are back! Brash or subtle, looks like our favourite iridescent group are here for Autumn Winter 2014. Here are some of my favourite metallic looks from London Fashion Week F/W 2014.

Christopher Raeburn

Daks

Jean-Pierre Braganza

Julien Macdonald

Joseph

House of Holland

Preen by Thorton Bregazzi

So spectacular, right? I cant wait to go out and hunt myself down some gold creepers à la Mark Fast!

Until next time,
Rachel

LFW F/W 2014 Trends Summary/ Colour Trend: Orange

2014-02-20T12:00:00.000+00:00

Back from A/W 2012, it looks like our bold friend is back: tangerine orange. Here are some of my favourite hues of orange from London Fashion Week F/W 2014.

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi

House of Holland. Sources.

Sister by Sibling

Emilia Wickstead

Holly Fulton

Emilio de la Morena

Christopher Raeburn

Felder Felder

Other than tangerine orange, you should also keep an eye out for the fuchsias and canary yellows. Winter has never been so...summery?

Until next time,

Rachel

LFW F/W 2014: Trend Summary/ Sheer

2014-02-19T13:31:00.001+00:00

Its nearly impossible to wear out in the real world, but sheer is one of the big trends for F/W 2014. Some were subtly displayed almost as cut-outs in dresses and skirts, other designers went for full-blown transparency; the models were only made decent by intricate strategically placed embroidery. However tricky to wear, I adore the sheer trend.

Here are some of the collections that did it best this season at London Fashion Week, now all we need is to find a way to wear sheer to the supermarket without getting disapproving looks from the older generation!

Felder Felder. Sources.

Felder Felder

Julien Macdonald

House of Holland

John Rocha

Holly Fulton

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi

Until next time!

LFW Day 3/ Mary Katrantzou F/W RTW

2014-02-16T13:43:00.000+00:00

It was a day full of extraordinary collections but I think Mary Katrantzou, one of my favourite designers, stands out from the rest today. Notorious for her eye-catching digital prints it is shocking to see not a single one playing a part in this collection; an array of stunning embroideries stood in their stead. Mary is beginning to diversify her techniques used which is really exciting to see.

The collection focused on symbols - varying from mens room logos to scouts badges to heraldic crests (heritage tailoring and silhouettes are big for F/W 2014) - arranged symmetrically in some cases, and collaged in others. This collection is unlike any I have ever seen before, the concept of symbols is truly original.

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A trend running through LFW is of masculinity, and as a result the designers are pulling out beautifully tailored suits and skirt-suit combinations. Mary Katrantzou's unique prints give her masculine tailoring a certain oomph to aid in the representation of the powerful female she dresses in this collection.

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Yet my favourite feature of this collection that hasnt popped up much in the others shown so far this London Fashion Week, is asymmetry - an aesthetically pleasing feature often using pleating in Katrantzou's A/W collection.

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Katrantzou closed the show with some beautiful symmetrically embroidered drop-waist dresses.

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Model Kirsten Owens opened and closed the show. Her career rivals Kate Moss in its longevity and success. What a collection! (And what a stunning backless dress!)

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Until next time,

Rachel

LFW Day 2/ Sister by Sibling F/W RTW

2014-02-15T15:24:00.001+00:00

The grunge trend appears to be making a return for Fall Winter 2014 in addition to the return of metallics as shown in Mark Fast's show on Friday. Sister by Sibling at London Fashion Week today is at the forefront of the comeback.

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Sister by Sibling featured again those fluorescent oranges and inky blues I spoke of earlier in my post about Mark Fast's collection.

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Unlike Mark's clean cut spongey knits, Sister by Sibling demonstrated distressed weaves - spiderweb-like - on one end of the spectrum, and at the other end we have kitsch florals emblazoned in heart shapes on fine woven knits, ruffles and jacquard prints.

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A really diverse collection demonstrating more bold colours, more stereotypically summery colours, for Autumn Winter 2014. I for one am glad I hung onto my tangerine knits from F/W 2012!

Rachel

LFW Day 1/ Mark Fast RTW F/W

2014-02-15T13:52:00.002+00:00

London Fashion Week is fast becoming the fashion week central to media focus. London just seems to have a kind of pazazz that you cant find anywhere else, and thats not just during fashion week; there is always an undercurrent electric buzz of something in the city that gives it this magical quality I love so much when I go to town.

Anyway, Day 1 demonstrated this buzz and London spirit best, I think, in the work of Mark Fast; the Canadian-born designer studied both his BA and MA at London's best, Central St Martins College - where I hope I will one day join the rankings of successful alumni, including my beloved Hussein Chalayan.

Don't for a second assume that fall/winter is for those stereotypical shades that reflect the dismal weather everyone is experiencing at the moment. No, Mark's collection is exactly what everyone needs right now: fluorescent optimism. Neon orange (making a return from its colour of the year title in 2012) and a sort of inky indigo are your go-to colours for Fall/Winter 2014, inspired by his recent trip to Mumbai and the neon glow of the city lights.

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Oh, if you didn't get enough of your metallics in Spring/Summer, you'll be happy to see gold making a comeback. Mark Fast's gold creepers are absolutely divine and they'd go perfectly with my latest buy: a gold Diana F+ analog camera - but we'll go into that on another day.

Not usually into flashy extravagant items? Neither am I, but Fast's creepers are such a soft shade that they could be tuned down by pairing them with neutral shades. Yet I love the contrast he creates by teaming them with black socks; this is a simple trick we could all do. Some people arent so keen on the creepers return, especially pairing them with socks, but hey I think they definitely work. Might be the punk in me talking. The look is very city chic: pairing flat shoes with dresses and skirts, casually loose knits that slip off the shoulders give that resounding street feel to the collection.

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Mark has completely converted me. I have detested turtlenecks since forever. His chunky knits and sort of looser turtlenecks just really work. How does he do it?!

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I for one am enamoured by this collection, not just for its aesthetic appeal but for Fast's use of a new spongey knit - knitted garments have always been an obsession of mine. A combination of chenille and merino wool, this special blend again reminds us of the talent of Fast and his incredible grasp of different structural techniques as a designer.

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Until next time,

Rachel

Coming Soon...RELAUNCH

2014-02-04T16:56:00.002+00:00

I'm Shopping.../ Everybody Panic!!

2013-04-22T19:06:00.001+01:00

Ground control to blogosphere...How are we all? It has been hectic and boy has time flown, we're nearly through with April and it was January when we last spoke!

I am just about to enter the worst 6 weeks of my life so far: final GCSE exams. Revision is unappealing, and despite wanting to do well and achieve my targets I just can't seem to get in the mindset - or accept the fact that this is it. Final exams. That freedom, well sort-of, is in touching distance.

Hopefully realisation will hit before it's too late, in the meantime I've been studying the art of procrastination: a qualification I have mastered. Part of my procrastination, asides from being glued to the TV (Pulp Fiction, Heat, Django Unchained, finally got around to watching The Godfather 3...) and visiting the cinema (A Good Day to Die Hard was so-so but, my lord, wasn't Trance good?!) consisted of shopping. Not just any shopping, shoe shopping.

Chrisoph Waltz is very deserving of his BAFTA, among other awards and nominations.
An amazing film that I've already pre-ordered on Amazon.

Now to shoes. They are difficult items that require more careful consideration than your typical dip-dyed vest top. These are things that need to last you longer than one season. I, in a fit of stressed out depression and being bottomed out on energy, bought myself not one but two pairs of shoes yesterday; I rarely buy shoes so this kind of demonstrates how stressed I was.

Nope, I don't regret a thing - they were both in the sale! Say hello to my newest babies:

Underground Hacienda Monk Creepers
~~£105~~ £47 on Asos

Asos Studded Flatform Trainers
~~£35~~ £17.50

Out in the wizardry that is the postal service are my latest additions. At this rate they right arrive the same day as my pre-ordered copy of Django Unchained...what a good day that'd be if they did!

Have a nice week!

Photography/ Fun in the Snow

2013-01-21T17:06:00.002+00:00

Since I last blogged, England has been coated in a thick blanket of snow. I'd been revising the whole weekend and hadn't ventured out in the blizzards yet, so I decided to walk the dogs with Mum - and grab a coffee from Costa's of course!

I dressed for the snow the only way I know how: Russian style! Complete with fluffy cossack, a Marks and Spencers gem - I must add, sensible walking boots, jeans, black pea-coat and one of my many favourite jumpers we braved the cold.

On the way we passed the Church which looked gorgeous all white and snowy, but still retained that eerie gloom reserved for Church yards.

Enjoy the pictures!

St Andrews Church, Cobham

Monty is loving the snow despite carrying around huge snowballs caught in his fur!

Lulu with snowflakes in her beard :)

Shaking off the snow! All photography and rights are mine, and belong to The Fashion Edition.

Stay cool y'all! Have a nice week!

The Fashion Edition's Not-so-true Facts No.1:
Duck-faces are illegal in 17 countries.

Inspiration/ Spring is Coming

2013-01-19T12:00:00.000+00:00

I don't mind the cold, only if it brings with it the promise of snow. But otherwise - the cold sucks! Biting at your face, chapping your lips and giving you that distinctly windswept hair look - what's to like about that?

So here's some inspirational photos to keep us sane while we patiently wait for Spring and all its bounty!

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Have a nice weekend!!

Rachel

Let's Celebrate/ The Liebster Award

2013-01-17T19:46:00.000+00:00

Hi everyone. I hope your all having a good week - even if you are aching to get to the weekend like I am! Today I am just dropping a quick note to say that I have been - very kindly I must add - nominated for the Liebster Award by the lovely author of Smize with Style. "What the hell is that?" I hear you ask. Well Liebster is the German word for 'favourite', and this award is issued out by fashion bloggers to their favourite blogs, so long as they have fewer than 200 followers. It seems like a really fun idea: you get to know bloggers better and see who're on their blog roll too.

How does it work?

The nominated winners of the Liebster Award can't just make their little acceptance speeches then toddle off stage; The Liebster Award is a never-ending cycle! You must write a post where you:

List 11 facts about yourself. Yes!! More time to spend talking about myself!
Then answer the 11 questions given to you by the blog who nominated you, so for me that's Queenly Tan - the author of Smize with Style. (If you are here because I nominated you, scroll down to find my questions for you.)
Decide upon 11 new questions.
Ask these 11 questions to 11 bloggers, of your choice, with less than 200 followers.
Go to each of your nominated bloggers websites and let them know.
Be a good sport and thank your nominator and give a nice little link back to their blog!
Now you can have a little badge to show with pride on your blog too!

It's a great idea as it helps promote others, and in turn promotes the winners: a great little tool for small blogs. As the rules state, here are my facts. These are all rather random but true, so hopefully you'll find them entertaining!

11 Facts About Me:

I can pick up nearly everything with my feet.
I am half Irish, half Trinidadian.
My hair is super curly, except for a suspicious patch at the nape of my neck which is, weirdly, dead straight.
In the history of my life I have played: the violin, the saxophone, the steel pans/drums, the recorder (challenging, I know), and now the guitar - which has lasted the longest and I hopefully won't be giving on any time soon. I am passionate about music, especially The Black Keys and Jack White.
As a child I ran cross country races. The best I ever came was 11th out of 159 people.
I am the daughter of a photographer.
My favourite films are usually sci-fi, fantasy, foreign, gangster or comedies. My favourites include: The Godfather Trilogy, The Departed, Lord of the Rings, Amelie and The Holiday - oh and The Talented Mr Ripley, plus the Devil Wears Prada and The September Issue.
I am a book junkie: I love the Fault In Our Stars by John Green, Shakespeare, and the Millenium Series (Girl with the Dragon Tattoo).
I wear jeans pretty much 24/7.
I own 8 pairs of Chuck Taylor All Star Converse.
Vomit free since 2003! (gross - I know. But I like to celebrate!)

Questions from Queen Tan:

Q: What do you want to be 5 years from now?

A: Happy. Knowing what I want to do and be, doing well at university with an awesome job lined up for when I leave. Or travelling. That's always nice!

Q: What's your fashion obsession? (Bags, shoes, etc.)

A: Easy: jumpers of all shapes, sizes, knits and colours!

Q: Favourite colour?

A: I don't really have one. The ocean...

Q: Something you cannot live with out?

A: My family supporting me. They always know what to say to make me feel better, laugh and be inspired.

Q: Best childhood memory?

A: Right now, I'm living them :) Not going to lie - I have been so fortunate growing up that I can't fault a single moment. Sure, there have been regrets but they're in the past. Meeting a family when we were on holiday in Tobago when I was 8 and having a "it's a small world" moment. The kids' dad had the same boss as my mum and I got along really well with the girls and would spend all day everyday with them.

Q: What other hobbies do you have asides from blogging?
A: Like I have said previously, I like to play the guitar. I play netball and love photography! I am a textiles student so am busy attempting to make my own clothes - but failing miserably!

Q: Straight or curly hair?
A: Curly!!!!

Q: Ideal man, if any?
A: Someone who makes me laugh :)

Q: Describe your personal style.
A: Kind of modern and simplistic. I like simple designs and structures. Trend-wise I like the studs that were resurrected last season and I do love the Baroque maximallism of gold and black lace. (Think Dolce & Gabbana and Balmain)

Q: Do you believe in 'first impressions last'?
A: No because you can always redeem yourself if you work hard...but it always helps to make a good first impression.

Q: Motto in life?
A: Gaah, um...'if at first you don't succeed, try, and try again?' One night I came up with my own mantra (copyright Rachel Callender...hahaha!): "Sometimes you fall down, but you get back up again because otherwise you'd look like an idiot."

And the nominations are...

The Fashion Edition's Liebster Award Nominations!

That was harder than you'd imagine...

My Questions for You!!

(Yes - they are weird!)

What is going through your head right now?
What is your biggest regret?
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
Pro or anti Instagram? (@faultinourstars)
Who is your favourite model? (i.e. this can be fashion or role model!)
What, in your opinion, is the body feature that just doesn't get enough good press in the fashion industry? (nose, eyebrows...ears?)
If you could live in any historical era, which would it be and why?
What is one thing you don't believe in? (e.g. ghosts, evolution, U.F.O's...)
If you were a book, which would you be?
If you could go back in the past to be present for a historical event, where would you go and why? (e.g. I would say March 1st 1994 for Nirvana's last concert in Munich, Germany because I would have loved to be in the presence of the legend which is Kurt Cobain)
Lastly: design a teeshirt, What would its slogan be?

I hope all of those who I nominated enjoy my ridiculous questions, and those of you reading this who didn't get nominated - I hope this got you thinking.

Inspiration/ Get fit!

2013-01-03T14:56:00.002+00:00

Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and have gotten 2013 off to a good start! Last time I posted I was talking about my New Year's resolutions. I think one of the most popular changes people want to make in the New Year is to get fit. It sounds easy enough, but I think we all know it's a lot harder than just strapping on your trainers and going for a jog!

Here I have compiled for you some my favourite songs to get you up and running, and some inspirational pictures.

The Playlist:

22 tracks to keep you motivated!

Daft Punk - Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger
Kasabian - Fire
The Black Keys - Lonely Boy
Beastie Boys - Intergalactic
Foster the People - Pumped Up Kicks
Imagine Dragons - Radioactive
The Kills - Cheap and Cheerful
Justice vs. Simian - We Are Your Friends
Ladytron - Ghosts
The Maccabees - Latchmere
Passion Pit - Take a Walk
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Can't Stop
The Strokes - Machu Picchu
Two Door Cinema Club - Sun
The Vaccines - If You Wanna
The White Stripes - Fell In Love With a Girl
Jeff Beck - Rollin' & Tumblin'
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Heads Will Roll
Gwen Stefani - What You Waiting For?
The Drums - Let's Go Surfing
Dropkick Murphy's -I'm Shipping Up to Boston
Green Day - Kill the DJ

The Photos:

Gisele - Versace Studded Nappa Bag

All images can be found on Pinterest.

I hope you're successful in all of your efforts to get healthy this year!

Rachel