2much2say

Backpacks are the new Handbags

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Thu, 08 Aug 2013 21:46:00 +0000

Ah, yes, it has been long since my last post but such is life some times. To be honest I really, really missed it. So what a better way to start afresh than to write about my latest obsession – backpacks!

The backpack, rucksack, whatever your preferred terminology, is officially cool again! Oh the joy! I am so sick of handbags, especially sick of handbags with tiny handles that cannot fit on my shoulder and I have to carry them forever on my arm. It is heavy, uncomfortable and to be honest I am bored of them.

Backpacks can be so much fun, especially now that they are officially IN with top designers rushing to bring out their own the endless choice makes me feel like Xmas! Can’t have them all but I can sure try…

Top 10 fashion backpacks available now:

1. Yuketen

Canoe backpack - £245

This classic made in U.S.A. footwear and luggage brand is quickly gaining fans in UK.

Triangle backpack - £315

See the full Yuketen collection here

2. Kenzo

"Flying Tiger" backpack

3. Meredith Wendell

colour block backpack - £399

4. Marc by Marc Jacobs

I am a fan of Marc by Marc Jacobs because it is durable, comfortable and so effortlessly cool. This one is from his quilted logo with letterings series with lettering

nylon Marc by Marc Jacobs backpack - £133

it comes in different, fresh colours

5. Herschel

This very much on trend cammo backpack made from lightweight ripstop nylon simply packs away into own internal pocket!

Backpackable daypack - £30

Little America backpack - £85

Herschel Heritage back pack

ASOS stock a great range, plenty of colour and prints to chose from

6. Hype Logo

Hype Logo - £20

7. Lazy Oaf

Blobby Square Rucksack - £55

8. Sandqvist

A simple backpack in heavy cotton canvas with straps in belt leather.

Sandqvist Stig

They also do this slightly rectangular shape with two outer bellow pockets on the sides.

9. MCM

Studded leather backpack

German luxury brand MCM (Mode Creation Munich) are well known for hand crafted bags and accessories such as this studded leather backpack

10. Grafea

Grafea in popcorn yellow - £160

Grafea in smurf blue - £160

I am not sure I am ready to let my beloved and battered Kippling backpack go but hey there is sale going on there so maybe I get lucky and add to my collection.

I have my eye on this one...

It’s Diddy’s last train to Paris – Get on, or get off!

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 15:12:00 +0000

The title pretty much says it all – you either like him or hate him but one thing is for sure you cannot be indifferent to what he does…because it seems he does everything! He is everywhere, music, magazines, reality TV, fashion, retail and counts Vogue’s André Leon Talley amongst his fans. Diddy’s fashion ventures often surpass his music but with his new album “Last Train To Paris” dropping today (Dec 14) Diddy is making his priorities clear to everyone. It’s all about the Benjamins! At least that’s how I read it. Diddy’s marketing machine is unstoppable and has no care for his already shaken credibility as a hip hop artist, landing him a fashion shoot with Natalia Vodianova, photographed by Annie Leibovitz and styled by Grace Coddington for February 2010 Vogue. I have to say though he looks cool and sleek if a bit too cheesy. Diddy’s new album “Last Train To Paris” is the first installment of Sean “Puffy” Combs’ new group Diddy-Dirty Money. It may not be a rapper's dream but it does rock some serious fashion credentials, featuring the voices of the biggest names in the business - Isaac Mizrahi, André Leon Talley, Zac Posen, Marc Jacobs, Tommy Hilfiger, and Anna Wintour. Surprised? Yes, but also confused – why? Apparently “This album is simply part of his evolution.” (André Leon Talley) or in Diddy's own words in the "Coming Home" track: "I aint finished growin".

Diddy in camel, shawl-collared double-breasted coat by Tom Ford

Click here to view the full gallery on Vogue.com

"Last Train to Paris" by Diddy-Dirty Money is out now but will it "redefine dance music for the new decade" remains to be seen.

Tom Ford is back! First RTW womenswear revealed in Vogue December Issue

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 21:03:00 +0000

Yes, it was a heavily guarded secret, and yes we all thought the wait is just unbearable but it is finally here! Tom Ford's first RTW for women with looks from the Spring11 collection revealed in Vogue's December issue. It spread faster than wildfire and I can't help but join in. He is back with a collection as beautiful as I always dreamed it would be!

"The seventies is what I love. Soft, touchable beauty is what I love,” said Ford to Vogue

Tom Ford Spring11 is what I love!

Photos: Steven Meisel, Vogue.com

Read the full Vogue article here

Thrilling times for the Jacksons as they launch J5 fashion line

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:03:00 +0000

If I had to name one group of fans whose style is instantly recognisable it would be Michael Jackson’s fans. Their dedication to his style is nothing short of admirable but equally inspiring with a fashion icon like him. There is no doubt that the King of Pop, as many refer to him, has influenced generations of fans and fashion designers alike with his signature looks throughout his astonishing music career. The tables have suddenly turned and according to WWD The Jacksons are trying to regain their fashion power by launching their first licensed apparel line under the J5 Collection name, commemorating their decades as The Jackson 5. The J5 Spring 2011 collection will hit stores in February offering men’s and women’s T-shirts and jackets, including replicas of the iconic leather jackets Michael Jackson wore in the “Thriller” and “Beat It” videos. T-shirts will retail between $32 and $58 and will incorporate imagery from their years as the so-called First Family of Music. The jackets will retail for about $600. “The jackets are incredible. They are the real thing,” said Jackie Jackson. “I didn’t really think of them as tributes to Michael in the beginning, but that’s what they are. They represent everything he stood for and everything he’s done in this industry, 100 percent.” WWD

You can purchase items from the J5 Collection at Urban Outfitters, Pac Sun, Kitson Men, Revolveclothing.com and 80spurple.com

Photo: David Heisler via WWD

Amy Winehouse for Fred Perry

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 21:16:00 +0000

If you did a double take I don’t blame you – who wouldn’t on seeing Amy Winehouse looking radiant, healthy and sober, modelling her capsule collection for the British sportswear brand Fred Perry. American Harper's Bazaar beg to differ but we will pretend we did not read the comments in their article and move on. I am sure Amy’s parent look at the pictures and weep – from joy! Their daughter looks almost normal, like butter would not melt in her mouth, despite the exotic tattoos covering her body. It somehow makes Fred Perry look cool.

Her 1950s inspired capsule collection has 15 items of clothing a belt and a clutch bag, all available online now an at Fred Perry boutiques worldwide. Prices in UK start from £55.

Photos: Bryan Adams

Argyle Longline Sweater

£ 90.00

Knitted Silk Shirt

£ 70.00

Twin Tipped Shirt

£ 55.00

GAP forced to keep the iconic blue box logo – the power of people and social media

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:24:00 +0000

“Ok. We’ve heard loud and clear that you don’t like the new logo. We’ve learned a lot from the feedback. We only want what’s best for the brand and our customers. So instead of crowd sourcing, we’re bringing back the Blue Box tonight” This was the statement on GAP’s Facebook page, posted yesterday, in response to their embarrassing approach to changing the iconic blue box logo behind customer’s backs. They were forced to admit that: “…we are clear that we did not go about this in the right way. We recognize that we missed the opportunity to engage with the online community.” You can say that again! It is all over now and I am glad the blue box logo is back! This should serve as a great lesson. Power to the people!

GAP’s New Logo Causes a Social Media Backlash

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 09:43:00 +0000

GAP’s new logo! Have you seen it yet? If yes, did you resist the urge to get involved in what looked like innocent comments that turned into social medial backlash over the brand’s decision to introduce that ridiculous new logo. It was “met with nearly universal disdain” said Tim Nudd on AdFreak. Could not have summarized the public’s reaction better. Many even said it was a PR stunt which was denied by GAP. And so, unsurprisingly, I could not resist getting involved; I have read blogs and postings, mostly ridiculing the new logo design and have also witnessed the customer’s feedback pouring like hot lava so much so that now the international retail giant has been forced to release an official statement on…wait for it…Huffington Post! Yeah, you read right – Huffington Post. On their Facebook account GAP said that they “wanted to shed some more light on the background behind our new logo – and we wanted you to hear it straight from our president, Marka Hansen.” Marka Hansen then, who is the president of Gap North America, starts the damage control in the dynamic world of social media by saying “This past Monday, without a lot of fanfare, we introduced a new logo on our gap.com site. Are you kidding me? This is a 20 years old logo and you thought nobody will notice the change? I actually have no problems with the logo being changed but I do have problem that such a big branding decision was actually not communicated to their customers and clients in any way. The decision to “engage in the dialogue, take their feedback on board and work together as we move ahead and evolve to the next phase of Gap.” comes very late; it looks forced and is stripped of the most important factor to me – being genuine. For this statement to ring true the dialogue should have been initiated ahead of the change so that customers, loyal to the brand, can genuinely be involved and believe Marka Hensen when she says that she is “excited about continuing the conversation”. Well, let's see how this one goes.

YOHJI YAMAMOTO AT THE V&A Museum, London

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 11:56:00 +0000

London is quickly becoming the place to see the best of Japanese Fashion. With the Barbican art gallery hosting “Future Beauty: 30 Years of Japanese Fashion” exhibition, the V&A are not far behind with a retrospective of the work of visionary Japanese fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto. The installation will be open to the public next year from March 12 to July 11th. According to the exhibition curator, the idea has been conceived as a site-specific installation rather than a chronological or thematic retrospective look at Yamamoto’s work. You would also be able to see for the first time Yamamoto’s menswear collections, which will be part of the exhibition as well. I know there is plenty of time till March 2011 but the V&A are not wasting it in a futile sartorial chatter. They have taken the social media route yet again and created a blog, hosted by Ligaya Salazar, who is the curator for the installation. The blog is meant to document the evolution of the exhibition and keep you informed about the whole process of making the exhibition come to live.

Yohji Yamamoto’s raise to fame was not always as full of admiration for his great talent as it is now. He set his own label soon after dropping out of law degree to work for his widowed mother in her dressmaking shop. His label had a great success in Japan but it was not until he showed in Paris in 1981 that his work divided the sartorial crowd. There was nothing sexy or glamorous about his oversized silhouettes, presented mostly in shades of black. Some experts of that time even went so far as to label the collection “Hiroshima chic”. But the truth is that Yamamoto brought innovation and freedom to shape and form through his trademark folding and draping techniques. Now he is the ‘designer’s designer’, ‘a Poet of Black’ and the ‘King of Cool’. His name reached even wider audience though his collaborations not only with other big fashion brands such as Adidas (Y-3), Hermès, Mikimoto and Mandarina Duck but also with artists such as Sir Elton John, Placebo and Takeshi Kitano. To me he is an artist who is always looking for extremes and always looking to push the envelope. He is never tired of black but strangely nor are we when he presents it in such an intriguing way. For his Spring RTW 2011 he did not let the audience down. His inspiration: “ The anniversary of Jimi Hendrix, 40 years since he died already. It’s my generation,” he said after the show. “I wanted to put two extremes together: psychedelic, easy-to-wear clothes with the couture.” (WWD)

The Yohji Yamamoto's retrospective at the V&A, London will be open from 12 March - 11 July 2011

Yohji Yamamoto RTW SS2011

Photos: Monica Feudi/Gorunway.com via style.com

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month kicks off today October 1st

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:20:00 +0000

Today is October 1st, which means that National Breast Cancer Awareness month has officially started not only in United Kingdom but in USA as well. This is all great. I know in England people get involved, people organise their own campaigns to raise money, they wear a pink ribbon which they purchase from some retailer’s counter, usually without even knowing that this purchase is in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month. But is that all! Be honest, did you actually know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month in UK? Have you seen ads, may be read some press releases, seen something in the media, on blogs or may be in participating retail stores? I haven’t! I found out about it by reading news in American media. Why? Now, that’s a good question.

Carlos Miele limited edition scarves

We live, without a doubt, in a celebrity and fashion obsessed society, where with the help of Social Media news spread faster than the speed of light. The one good thing coming out of the celebrity obsession is using their status to influence people and help raise awareness for various causes usually of charitable nature. And this is done, most of the time, with a great success in USA. Across the pond, this is practiced with such devotion that it is almost a religion. This year Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Fashion Targets Breast Cancer program has exciting new collaborations. Carlos Miele designed limited edition scarves featuring the iconic bull’s-eye logo for $125; Esteban Cortazar, in partnership with Colombian retailer Exito, designed a capsule FTBC collection that will bow in early December, and Intermix is offering $48 FTBC bracelets by Ruby Kobo and Shashi, as well as a $68 FTBC T-shirt by Torn by Ronny Kobo. Marcia Patmos has collaborated with Leroy and Perry on a line of $150 sunglasses, with proceeds going to FTBC. Upscale catalogue Cambria Cove will donate proceeds of sales from Cynthia Rowley-designed iPad cases to FTBC. Australian cosmetic company Jurlique is also donating a portion of sales this month to the initiative. (WWD) In addition to that there is a massive Breast Cancer Awareness campaign throug major social networking channels like FaceBook, Twitter and YouTube to really spread the message. Evelyn Lauder, who is senior corporate vice president of the Estée Lauder Cos. Inc., is also supporting the cause with her pink illuminated building campaign around the world. And this is just the beginning of the events planned to raise awareness and raise funds for this cause.

But what about here in UK? Breast Cancer is a serious problem with more than 45,500 women diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK every year. Cancer Research UK is the largest single funder of research into breast cancer and more women than ever before are surviving the disease thanks to the life saving work they do. Only last year they spent nearly £45m on ground breaking work into beating breast cancer. These are the facts but how many people know about them and how many people know how to get involved without having to organize a fund raising event themselves. Here is how you can get involved in UK:

Cancer Research UK

Hollywood meets East End - Minnie Driver and Barbara Windsor have teamed up with Cancer Research UK to produce two unique rubber ducks to raise money and awareness of breast cancer. Minnie’s duck, ‘Henrietta’, is designed in pink, the traditional colour for breast cancer awareness, and emblazoned with blue wording to show how breast cancer affects all women. Barbara Windsor’s duck is called ‘Flora’ and looks more like a traditional rubber duck in a vibrant yellow, with the positive colour and flower motif representing the hope for breast cancer patients due to improvements in survival rates over recent years. The ducks will be available from the charity’s online shop, www.shoptobeatcancer.org.uk where you can also find the Julian Macdonald's Breast Cancer Care Pin for £12 with all proceeds going directly to Cancer Research UK.

Minnie Driver and Barbara Windsor's rubber ducks for Cancer Research UK

Julian Macdonald's Breast Cancer Care Pin, £12

Elemis
Elemis will be selling a limited edition fuchsia pink “Sparkling Beauty” collection for face, neck and bust containing five products from their range. Price £50 available from www.timetospa.co.uk With this collection Elemis has pledged a donation of £10, 000 to Cancer Research UK.

Mothercare

Mothercare, the specialist retailer of products for mothers‐to‐be, babies and children, is also supporting for the second year running with a limited edition range of pink products with prices from £ 3.99 to £39.99 such as multi purpose pillow, steam sterilizer pod, muslin squares and burp cloth. Unfortunately if you go to their online shop web-site you would not know they are even participating in the campaign!

Mothercare Pink Steam Steriliser Pod, £39.99

TESCO

A dedicated range of Tesco Pink products is also available with 10% of every sale price going to Cancer Research UK. To be honest it does offer a good choice of items, available from Tesco stores and online at www.tesco.com/clothing from 20th September 2010.

Tesco's Leopard Print Cotton Scarf, £5

The Pampered Chef – UK

The Pampered Chef-UK is supporting Cancer Research UK’s campaign, ‘Join the fight for women’s survival’, for the fourth year running. A contribution of £1 will go to Cancer Research UK for every item purchased from the “Help Whip Cancer” product range, available from www.pamperedchef.co.uk. Again you would not know just by going to their web-site.

There are many other items you can purchase on the high street and help a great live saving cause. Help raise money for Cancer Research UK so they can continue to do groundbreaking work and save more women every day. Click here to find out the full list of activities and participating high street stores in UK.

How does that compare to what is happening across the pond? You tell me!

Jill Sander for Uniqlo Fall 2010, +J No3

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 08:22:00 +0000

Jill Sander is the queen of minimalism and when she announced that she is coming out of retirement for none other but the High Street equivalent of the king of minimalism Uniqlo it made big news. It was a collaboration filled with sartorial scepticism that soon turned into frenzied preparation to hit the stores and grab as many items as one can possibly carry. I was there, at the Uniqlo Regent Street flagship store, and it was absolutely crazy! I remember us asking the shop assistant to go and get me a coat I wanted in my size from the stock room, literally drag it out of the boxes that stood there still unopened as the staff could not cope with the amount of people in the store. That’s how crazy it was. But, the good news is she is back for another cold season Hip -Hip Hurray! And she is back with a collection that is promising to be bigger and better that before, as if that is at all possible.

+J Fall 2010 is Jill Sander’s third collection for the Japanese brand Uniqlo and promises everything we are hoping for – sharp tailoring, high quality fabrics, cashmere cardigans, felt coats, wool tailored jackets and of course a great white shirt. The entire line comes in her signature colours of black, white, grey, navy and petrol blue. Clean line, clean colours and perfect minimalism. “A wardrobe needs some quiet pieces that bring everything together” she said in an interview and she is sure to have them all in her +J line.

The ad campaigns are already out featuring Raquel Zimmerman for the womenswear giving us a great look into what is to come in store. Honestly, I am predicting a stampede again.

+J Fall 2010 launches at the Uniqlo shop in Bluewater (Kent) on 2^nd Oct and online at www.uniqlo.co.uk. It goes nationwide on Oct 14 at very "democratic prices".

+J Fall 2010 Ad Campaign

Milan Fashion Week RTW SS2011 – The Trendsetters

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 13:29:00 +0000

Milan Fashion Week RTW has come and gone but the catwalk shows left a clear message of what is to come in the sartorial summer of 2011. There is no doubt in my mind that Italy is leading the way with front running trendsetters and so we shall follow with zest and enthusiasm for there was so much beauty.

Milan Core Summer Trends for 2011

Trend: Lace, doilies, whites – romance and nostalgia

Dolce and Gabbana RTW SS/2011 is certainly leading the way for next summer with a mesmerizing “core signature collection” that oozed romance, innocence and love all glazed in sex appeal. The title “Sicilian Sensuality” left no doubt about it. I have never been more excited about lace, save the Erdem shows, but Dolce and Gabbana’s highly intricate details and beautifully crafted dresses in purest white were such a treat.

Karl Lagerfeld and Silvia Venturini

FENDI RTW SS/2011

FENDI is really known for their bags and the clothes, well let’s face it they were always boring. Karl Lagerfeld made “boring” a thing from the past for Fendi’s RTW SS2011. Romantic 70s in white cotton dresses, high waist tulip skirts, silk peasant dresses and those tricolour belts - sex definitely sells but add to it romance and you end up with a winning formula.

Trend: Clean colours, cut outs, structure - polished and comfortable

Versace RTW SS/2011

I thought Donatella Versace delivered a surprisingly clean and structured collection that will certainly open the label to a younger and wider audience. It felt like a spring clean to me but with a bit of redecorating added for freshness. Absolutely loved the below the knee length of her skirts and dresses – instant sophistication and style, really elongating the body. For Versace sex appeal matters and they achieved it with the tight silhouettes, clean colours that really helped enhance the cutouts and the piping. Logo placements is always a problem for me with Versace but this time it was cleverly used in vertical slashes or abstract prints, even tastefully cutout in cropped jackets and dresses.

Emporio Armani RTW SS2011

No one does polished and comfortable better than Emporio Armani. Weather it is through the masterful tailoring, lean shifts or structured blazers Armani just has that knack to delivery sporty but in its most fashionable way. The tiered look this year certainly contributed to the casual but yet fresh and comfortable feel of the collection. Frills were also seen but worked in the most perfect, unobtrusive way that really made them compliment the garment rather than distract from it.

It HURTS - When Fashion and Music align so perfectly

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 12:12:00 +0000

I have 2 passions in life: Fashion and Music, and when they align in a perfect symmetry for me it is like fireworks. Just take Kings of Leon for example; the band is as famous for its style as it is for its music. The right look for a performer can be make or break and it is such a joy to see it done right. With artists like Lady GaGa who live to shock and often scare, seeing someone so unashamedly retro is a real breath of fresh air. And you know you have made it in the fashion stakes when you make the pages of the music magazines like Q and Disorder Magazine with more photos than text! They are so immaculately charming that it HURTS! Their debut album “Happiness” is the fastest selling debut album in UK and their UK tour, starting October 2, is sold out. There has been a retro trend recently with Mad Men leading the way with their perfectly pressed shirts, dry cleaned suits and slicked back hair but add to this style mix over the top electro pop music and you have Hurts. Theo Hutchcraft and Adam Anderson are the Mancunian duo that is shaking the British music scene at the moment, or rather diving it. But I believe their charm and sophistication, their linen suits, perfect hair, sleek, smooth and at times haunting sound is so charismatic that it is impossible to resist. I love their style and I know that many comparisons have been drawn with the likes of Pet Shop Boys and early Depeche Mode but for me the Mancunian duo is more than capable of leaving their own mark on what they call “Melodramatic Popular Song”. Wouldn’t they be perfect for the GQ cover all dressed in Tom Ford suits? That would be dream!

The debut album is total perfection for those who love electro pop with Kylie landing some vocal help on the Devotion track. Hard to pick a favourite track but they all have lyrical strength and chart topping credentials. And they look immaculate in their videos.

Hurts debut album “Happiness” is out now.

www.informationhurts.com

www.myspace.com/ithurts

Photo: Hurts

Hurts in Disorder Magazine. Photos: Disorder Magazine

Selfridges Shoe Galleries are bigger than ever!

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 08:21:00 +0000

Selfridges Shoe Galleries Map

You know when you say "When I die I want to go to shoe heaven"? Well now such extreme measures are no longer necessary. With 55,000 shoes in stock at any one time and 4,000 shoes on display from over 150 brands Selfridges' new Shoe Galleries is you personal shoe heaven right here on earth – all 35,000 square feet of it. According to the iconic yellow bag department store this is “the biggest shoe department in the world”. Designed by Jamie Fobert the shoe gallery boasts six unique shoe galleries, 11 beautiful boutiques and one hanging garden. The boutiques are designed like small apartments to reflect the designer’s own personal space.

It is the ultimate shoe indulgence in lux surroundings of velvet, glass, alabaster and silk. There are shoes for every taste and every pocket, from Dune, Office and River Island to Christian Louboutin, Chanel, Dior and Balenciaga. You will not be able to leave the shop empty handed – that’s a guaranteed!

Photos: Selfridges

The Christian Louboutin Apartment

The Coco Chanel Apartment

Fashion News Roundup - London to Milan

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 19:41:00 +0000

Gucci RTW SS2011

This week Milan takes over the fashion stage from London and kicked off Milan Fashion Week RTW SS2011 with a show that set everybody talking. Frida Giannini’s “Sophisticated Seduction” for Gucci was not only a pleasant surprise but it felt like the brand was finally truly represented for the style and quality it is known for. To top it all Gucci joined the digital family and streamed the show through a live E-vent to which visitors gained access via special personalised invitations and were also given the chance to stream a video of themselves watching the show. The E-vent turned out to be a great success and left a lot of virtual guests excited and optimistic about Gucci’s Summer 2011. Gucci has now followed in the digital footsteps of Burberry, Emporio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Jill Sander and others who have embraced the all that technology has to offer and brought their catwalk shows to a worldwide audience of dedicated fans.

Marc Jacobs is no stranger to the Internet either. He has just launched his online shop that in true Marc Jacobs style is fun, interactive and cool. The design vision seems to be that one is supposed to feel like in a shop and offered help by virtual assistants, who meet and greet you while you enjoy runway videos from the brand’s collections, playing in the virtual shop windows. And as if this is not good news, the site is mobile and iPad friendly, which means you can shop on the go so check it out at www.marcjacobs.com. But if you still prefer to put pen to paper then why not get your hands on this limited edition Marc Jacobs for Barneys Moleskine notebook. It is “silk-screened in a coolly unfussy scribble print — white on black for the cover, black on white for the opening page” but that is the only thing that is different. Everything else is still the same great quality and functionality that we love Moleskine for.

Marc Jacob's brand new online shopping site www.marcjacobs.com

Marc Jacobs for Moleskine

Bjork performing at the memorial service

While the fashion crowd is moving from one fashion capital to another, London mourned a truly great designer – Lee Alexander McQueen. On Monday St. Paul’s Cathedral was filled with guest who gathered for a very emotional 70 min memorial service in his honour. According to WWD amongst the 1200 guests were Sarah Jessica Parker, Daphne Guinness, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Karen Elson, Stella Tennant, Stella McCartney, Hussein Chalayan, Antonio Berardi, Roland Mouret, Philip Treacy and Shaun Leane. Many got a chance to have their say about the designer who tragically took his own life last year. “American Vogue editor in chief Anna Wintour called the designer a “complex and gifted young man” who worked out his dreams and horrors on fashion’s stage. “He never appeared much at ease with himself, and he didn’t care about the politics of fashion,” she said. “The world that he loved was inside the atelier.” Loosing some one as great and as visionary as Alexander McQueen left a big hole that I think could never be filled in. He truly is one in a million.

But at least there are plenty of hopefuls who would like to try and make it – Anna Wintour was quick to leave London for Milan to co-host 'Who Is On Next" with Franca Sozzani (Italian's Vogue Editor-in-Chief.) Mrs Wintour’s reputation for spotting and promoting young talent is infallible and this event celebrates the next generation of talented young designers who get a chance to meet the crème de la crème of Italian fashion world including Giorgio Armani, Domenico Dolce, Stefano Gabbana, Alberta Ferretti, Donatella Versace and Roberto Cavalli.

Talking about the king of Italian bling, who’s motto "excess is success" literally defines his fashion career, Cavalli is celebrating 40 years in business. This no doubt calls for a fabulous party, which the designer and his wife will host in Paris on September 29 at L'Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. According to WWD the “designer chose to celebrate in Paris because he showed his first collection at a trade exhibition there in 1970.” Amazing!

And while in Paris why not swing by Maison Européenne de la Photographie to see Karl Lagerfeld’s “Parcours de Travail” show. An extensive selection of his photographic work to date including his work for Chanel.

Promoting young designers has become a trend recently, I do hope it is not as fickle as fashion trends are but Dolce & Gabbana are already riding the wave. Their new accessories-only store in Milan will carry not only their own collection but also the lines of a hand picked group of young, emerging designers like Sophie Theallet, Yigal Azrouël, Elisa Palomino, Fausto Puglisi, Behnaz Sarafpour and Heather Williams. I say that is one smart business move!

Not so sure about this next business move from none other but her Madgesty. In time when, according to Moody’s Investors Service, “Consumers continue to face high unemployment and personal debt levels along with low asset values and tight credit availability which will continue to make them focused on value,” a Material Girl took over 6 Macy’s windows in New York. And if you have not guessed it yet, yes, it is the much talked about fashion line produced by Madonna and Lourdes called appropriately Material Girl Junior. Taylor Momsen of “Gossip Girl,” is the face of the brand and rumor has it that Lourdes is the creative brain behind it. Like mother like…Material Girl.

And a breath of relief for all men who keep complaining that men’s fashion is hard to understand and is mostly confusing. David Gandy is at hand to help out with his newly launched men's style app, available to use on iPads, iPhones and iPods. You can seek his advise on style and shopping and please do as he says! His fashion credentials are made of…well just look at the picture! He was Dolce & Gabbana's muse and in 2009 he was voted the third most successful model in the world by Forbes magazine. Suddenly shopping for husbands and boyfriends became really and I mean really interesting!

David Gandy's Style Guide App

David Gandy for Dolce & Gabbana

Park Avenue Jesus!

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 16:12:00 +0000

This is just such an entertaining and brilliantly written article on Michael Kors by Amy Larocca, published in NY Mag, that I could not resist sharing it here. I love the humour and yet it is so informative and gives a great insight into what Michael Kors is all about. It's a must read. Click on the link to read the full article.

Park Avenue Jesus!

LFW Burberry Prorusm RTW SS2011

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 09:00:00 +0000

Recently for me London Fashion Week has been all about Burberry and what Christopher Bailey has in store for the coming season. I remember the first time Burberry streamed their catwalk show live for RTW SS2010 – it was a craze, fans flocked to the web link and exchanged excited comments about the collection and spread them through the digital stratosphere faster than any one actually sitting at the live show. And as if Bailey was not already a star, that evening his worked shined simultaneously around the world through that 10 min live stream and somehow brought him closer to his loyal fans.

Christopher Bailey is now Chief Creative Officer of Burberry, “a newly created position in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the brand since his appointment at Burberry as Creative Director in May 2001.” And his work just does not stop to amaze and impress. He keeps referencing Burberry history and heritage but every time he does it in such a new fresh way that one can be forgiven for not really seeing the heritage as much as seeing the innovations. For SS 2011 his inspiration was the outfits Thomas Burberry designed for England's first motorbike riders in the early 1900's and promptly named the collection “Heritage Biker”. If biker girls are supposed to look that good, there is some serious sex appeal melting the asphalt roads those bikes are roaring down on.

The Burberry trench got a new biker look by becoming shorter, smaller, tighter and often made of python. It has zips and buckles, plenty of studs and is worn with super high heels but all this was softened by the beautiful silk sheath dresses that were dangerously low cut at the back. I absolutely loved the short cream biker trench with studded sleeves worn with a wide python belt. The lime leather jacket was also a stand out as well as that metallic silver cropped jacket. My favorite was a short, sleeveless biker jacket worn over a midnight blue mini dress that has signature Bailey all over it. It’s summer 2011 and it is only appropriate that we wear as less clothes as possible if the weather allows for it of course. If in doubt grab a pair of tight biker trousers and you are set to go.

Photos: Yannis Vlamos /GoRunway.com via style.com

London Fashion Week RTW SS 2011 - The girls, the boys and the rebels.

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 17:52:00 +0000

I don’t want to sound like a broken record but I will never get tired of saying that RTW should be exactly that. When I buy ready to wear I want to look fresh, cool and fashionable, in whatever style I have chosen without thinking too much. At the same time I am so tired of the unifyingly boring clothes that the high-street has to offer that seeing some off the wall RTW down the catwalk is refreshing. I bet Zara will not be channelling Mary Katrantzou for spring 2011 and that should be a great relief for her. I guess my point is that this year a lot of designers opted for collections that could translate well in shops without compromising too much on their vision or integrity as designers. And I believe that a great RTW designer should be able to do just that. Give us something to get excited about but also really itching to buy, because it is new, unseen and most of all wearable. New York Fashion Week set the tone for earthy nudes and minimalism but often London does not choose to follow, and this is what I like about London Fashion Week – fashion surprise is guaranteed. So far London based designers have done nothing to make me believe otherwise. So here are the boys, the girls and the rebels for S/S 2011

Erdem

He always absolutely and infallibly mesmerizes me with his dream-like creations of delicate femininity and stunning prints. It seems Erdem can do no wrong. His work is perfection of shape, form and colour. The way he works with lace is truly extraordinary. It never looks, heavy, kitsch or tacky. It just looks exquisite. The colour contrasting over embroidery and his signature prints add to the sophistication and the elegance of his creations. It is what dreams are made of.

Erdem Photos: Yannis Vlamos /GoRunway.com via style.com

David Coma

Full ballerina like skirts, structured bodice, and a symmetrical play with black and white all kept together by some white organza. So far so good and very pretty but then along comes the blindingly bright gold python and this embellished number with thigh high slits that kind of looked out of place.

Photos: Marcus Tondo /GoRunway.com via style.com

Matthew Williamson

It is becoming clear now that Matthew Williamson is more than eager to move away from the one trick pony situation he put himself in. His girl for Summer 2011 is marooned on a deserted island, instead of a “hedonistic glamour destination” that requires the usual bold prints, dizzying colours and tribal references. True, it is still and island and a destination but a more earthy and peaceful one, that makes his girl grow up a little bit while still keeping her playful nature. It does look at time that he did not try hard enough but there were also some real winners like the wide leg trousers, the khaki shorts and the breezy evening summer dresses.

Roksanda Ilincic

You could almost feel the wind blowing by looking at what Roksanda Ilincic has in store for summer 2011. It was all very breezy, flowing on air kind of affair that though extremely pretty and mostly flattering to women of all shapes and sizes felt to me a bit too mature at times while at the same time some numbers were quite girlie and fairy like. The good thing about grey or pearl-grey as in this collection is that it sets off any other strong colour and it worked beautifully for Ilincic.

Photos: Yannis Vlamos / GoRunway.com via style.com

Holly Fulton

Holly Fulton is relatively new to the catwalk it is only her third collection so far but she has already established a name for graphic prints, luxurious materials and oversized accessories. And for summer 2011 she showed just that inspired by "Nicholas Krushenick, Memphis design and Joan Collins on a cruise circa 1967." Which would explain the oversized earrings and chunky necklaces. It is a brave decision to do prints and oversized statement jewelry when minimalism is fashion's new darling. I feel like we have seen the prints and have seen the accessories, as fresh and exciting as they are, but what else is there in Holly's bag of tricks?

Photos: Yannis Vlamos /GoRunway.com via style.com

And here are the ones who obviously do not need the money to produce their next collection – the rebels without a cause.

Mary Katrantzou
Anyone whos is doing a first solo catwalk show naturally wants to impress and there is no doubt that Mary Katrantzou did just that with her beautifully executed 3D prints of bold and beautiful house interiors. Her inspiration: “Fashion photography, surrealist juxtapositions and the barrel organ.” All this is great fun, perfectly executed and very entertaining to watch but one can’t stop and wonder what is the goal here? Certainly not innovation as this has been done before to much better standard, so what then?

Photos: Yannis Vlamos / GoRunway.com via style.com

Meadham Kirchhoff

Edward Meadham and Benjamin Kirchhoff – their girl is “Uncompromising, aware and individual.” Ok, this I totally get but what about the clothes? They seem kind of high-school-ish for all the wrong reasons and very Top Shop…oh wait they did do a Top Shop collection in May so may be they are still on the same train of thought.

Photos: Marcus Tondo / GoRunway.com via style.com

New York Fashion Week RTW SS2011 - The Masters of Colour

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 13:31:00 +0000

Neutral and earthy palettes seemed to prevail at New York Fashion Week RTW S/S 2011 this year. Many designers opted for clean, simple lines and minimalistic look for their collections. But after a dull, grey winter we are all, I’m sure, looking to add colour in our wardrobe to lift up the spirits and make us smile. Here are my colour heroes for Spring/Summer 2011

DVF

The last time I truly enjoyed a DVF collection was with her 2009 RST which left me wanting almost every piece of it (in a perfect world where I could afford it). Since then it kind of felt a bit tired, a bit too brown and too grown up without any fun element. The prints were either too sharp or the colours too dark. Diane von Fustenberg’s collections always felt a bit heavy. That’s why I was curious to see how this will shift with Yvan Mispelaere by her side. So glad to report that RTW S/S 2011 is full of great summer basics, from hooded jumpsuits and draped dresses to silk blouses. But the real star of the catwalk for me was the tailoring. That navy pantsuit...

Pictures: Yannis Vlamos / GoRunway via style.com

Peter Som

"I was thinking about bringing joy to clothing," Peter Som said about his Spring 2011 collection and he was true to his word. Bright colours, mix prints and textures made his woman look fresh, happy and extremely leggy. There is no doubt that Som’s woman is a happy woman and her joy will translate great in sales at the shop floors.

Pictires: Yannis Vlamos /GoRunway.com via style.com

Marc Jacobs

Flowers, big and small, bold colours, prints, frizzy hair and big bell like sleeves – you know Marc Jacobs had fun designing his take on Summer for 2011. I am not that keen on the satin pieces and feel he does not need to look so Missoni (or Chanel for that matter) but overall it is a colourful and fun collection.

Photos: Monica Feudi / GoRunwau.com via style.com

Philosophy

Alberta Ferretti’s Spring collection for Philosophy, left no one wondering where she drew her inspirational references from. It does look a bit like China Town on speed but the silks and prints are perfect for the cute little dresses and the pyjama like shorts and bottoms. The matching cone hats are more than enough to assure us of the ongoing theme. Adding dragon embroideries, mandarin collars and frog buttons only made it borderline kitsch.

Photos: Marcus Tondo /GoRunway.com via style.com

New York Fashion Week – In Love With Minimalism

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 11:38:00 +0000

New York Fashion Week RTW S/S 2011 is way under way and already setting a trend for the projected scorching summer temperatures – minimalism in a truly American way. It seems that it is all about comfortable, practical and effortless style through key pieces such as soft fluid silk skirts, printed chiffon, sheer backed tops and flaring trousers. It is a great, eye pleasing fresh start to the week.

The New York Minimalism Club

Vena Cava

Lisa Mayock and Sophie Buhai of Vena Cava drew inspiration from the Memphis design movement, which flourished in the early 1980s. For their S/S 2011 the duo set on to design "practical, matter-of-fact, not too over-styled clothes." This resulted in adorable linen shorts suits, flaring trousers and “ankle-skimming shirt dresses”. They played with colour blocking and it worked well contributing to a collection that looks fresh, breezy and perfect for those city summer days.

All Vena Cava Photos: Simone Leonardi / GoRunway.com via style.com

Jen Kao

Jen Kao is mostly known for her penchant for body-con dresses but if that’s what you expected to see then you are in for a surprise. For Kao Spring/Summer was all about softness and earthy freedom hence the barefoot models. Apparently, she said that this style is more her than anything else but that remains to be seen. Jen Kao presented crocheted knits, soft silks and organza in a very earthy palette, still all pieces showed structure and definition that really helped the fluid, light feel of the collection shine through.

Jen Kao Photos: Monica Feudi /GoRunway.com via Style.com

Richard Chai Love

There is not much you can do if you only stick to nudes but Richard Chai showed just how this colour palette should be worked to produce great pieces. His own definition of the colour scheme was "super-neutral" even though he did include blues and black. But it was his play with transparency through layering nylon body stockings that made his collection stand out. He is betting on wardrobe basics "It's an amazing trench coat, an amazing T-shirt—that's the premise of Love" and that could just be the thing to make women love this collection.

Richard Chai Photos: Yannis Vlamos / GoRunway.com via Style.com

Rachel Comey

Some times minimalism can be very boring and even clinical but Rachel Comey’s Spring/Summer RTW 2011 is a minimalism 101 for an effortless, stylish summer in a sophisticated grown-up way. The trend of breezy, light and airy sportswear could be seen in all her garments. The earthy tones were visible here as well with khaki and white dominating the looks of shorts suits, corset top sun dresses and high-necked halter dresses but it was the printed chiffon that brought the feeling of a fashionable summer to life.

Rachel Comey Photos: Monica Feudi / GoRunway.com via Style.com

Fashion's Night Out 2010, London - It was fun for me but not on the high street

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:32:00 +0000

While New York is enjoying Fashion Week in anticipation for Fashion’s Night Out on 10^th September, London last night was desperately trying to live up to its reputation as one of the fashion capitals of the world. This may be so in theory but the reality became painfully clear last night when the city celebrated the love between designers and fashion consumers with a Champagne night out on the town.

Fashion’s Night Out is the brain-child of CFDA in collaboration with Vogue magazine and its main purpose is to encourage shopping by re-building the broken relationship between fashion designers, and the retail industry as a whole, and the fashion consumer in hard economic times. It was a great idea that came at just the right time. It was aimed at the shopping public in general, promising ordinary people the chance to meet their favourite designers and celebrities, purchase limited edition items, collect autographs, take great pictures, sip Champagne and give money to charity as well as shop. The event was backed up by virtually everybody in the entertainment industry, by all major designers, high street and department stores. It was promoted tirelessly and build up to be the event of the year. It was spread across the big fashion capitals (New York, Milan, Paris, Moscow etc) of the world to make it the biggest international shopping event in fashion history. And it worked! The streets and shops were packed, people willingly participated and united through shopping to help up an industry that gave jobs to so many. But that was 2009.

Manolo Blahnik Signing Shoes at Liberty

Fast forward 8^th of September 2010 in London and Fashion’s Night Out was almost invisible. Yes it was anticipated, probably highly anticipated by those who follow fashion news, but the general public was generally taken by surprise. Compared to last year, this year London left the majority of people feeling left out and intimidated. Yes there were events, and of course designers were at hand to sign items from their collections, style you personally and take a picture with you but it was literally impossible to get past the big bodyguards at the store entrance and if you were not on the guest list, even more impossible to sneak in. New Bond Street in London, the centre of all high end fashion stores, was absolutely packed with celebrities, fashion designers and stick thin, tall, Christian Louboutin clad girls. Giorgio Armani was there, Christopher Bailey was there, Stella McCartney was there, there were events at Chanel, Asprey was so packed that people inside were going outside to breath some air! DKNY was buzzing and so was Anya Hindmarch and Bally. As for Louis Vuitton, well the party there never really stops does it? In comparison, Oxford Street and Regent Street were almost empty after 7pm, as if Fashion’s Night Out was not even happening right next door. As if people, just 2 min walk away, did not carry bags full of expensive merchandise. Yes, people were shopping, no doubt about it. Shopping at Armani, D&G, Bally, LV, Christian Louboutin, Asprey and definitely shopping at Libery for a pair of coveted, limited edition Manolo Blahnik shoes, signed by the designer himself! But let’s be honest, is Fashion’s Night Out really aimed at these people? Is that all it is about? In my opinion, these people do not really need encouragement to shop, that’s what they usually do on almost daily bases from the same shops and most of them probably know the designers in person. Yet, the same people are the ones who are on the guest list, invited in, buying the new collection, drinking the Champagne and generally having a great time. This is all good but it defies the purpose of the event! The purpose to encourage people in general to shop! No matter where, just shop in support of the industry. So, is the event past its use by date or did London’s high street let its customers down by not participating actively in the event? It is hard to say. Most of the interesting events were actually at designer stores and high-end department stores like Liberty and Harvey Nichols. Everybody else was either not participating or participating in such a way that nobody knew about it. The only truly happy people I saw on the night were at Gap Oxford Street where Janelle Monae performed a small but electrifying gig to a stylishly cool audience who actually did not shop at Gap. Still points should be given to the high street giant that knows how to be effortlessly cool.

I personally think London Fashion’s Night Out was a let down and as fun and as glamorous as it was at New Bond street and Bruton Street, as exciting as it was to meet, or rather see Manolo Blahnik in his lavender suit, the event left me disappointed and sad for all these ordinary fashion loving people who were queuing for hours to get a glimpse of their favourite designer and probably never did. Or did I get it all wrong…

The crowd at Burberry was solid throughout the night

Juicy Couture, Bruton Street

Janelle Monae at Gap, Oxford Street

New Bond Street

Manolo Blahnik Pop Up Shop revealed at Liberty

Pomellato, proud to be part of FNO

Fashion's Night Out 2010, London - Heels and wallets at the ready

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 15:14:00 +0000

Fashion’s Night Out is back, following a great worldwide success in 2009, when the fashion industry joined hands with big cities to encourage shopping in an economically unstable climate. The goal of the event was to re-build the relationship of trust between brands, designers and the general public. Thousands of people honored the event, initiated by the CFDA in collaboration with Vogue magazine. It was supposed to be a one off night of shopping, extravaganza, meeting our favourite designers and loosen up the tight purse strings. But the event was so successful that it is coming back for a second year round, promising to be bigger and better.

16 countries will take part in Fashion’s Night Out 2010 – Australia, China, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Greece, Japan, India, Italy, Portugal, Russia, Spain, South Korea, Taiwan and Turkey. Make sure you check your local events calendar and start marking the events you want to see as there is not much left before the show begins.

London is feverishly preparing for the big event with designers already confirming appearances and in-store events to suit even the highest of designer heels. As usual the event will be all over West End and in big department stores. With so much choice, no wonder one feels overwhelmed. Don’t worry, there will be plenty of bubbly on the night, so make sure you are ready to sparkle on September 8th at 6pm because London will be full with designers ready to meet you!

Here are some of the events you should consider:

Christian Louboutin will host a mad tea party with music and Champagne of course. Guests will be treated to lipstick consultations with Nars and a chance to purchase a pair of shoes from the designer himself.

The iconic Manolo Blahnik will be at his Old Church Street store signing shoes. You can try your luck at winning a pair from the autumn/winter 2010 collection and also see him reveal his pop-up store at the equally iconic British department store Liberty. The Manolo Blahnik pop up mini boutique will be selling exclusive products including candles, shoehorns and chocolates. It will also feature a bespoke bar with drinks named after his chic designs. Fabulous!

And while hanging out at Liberty, sipping fashionable cocktails why not check out Richard Nicoll who will also be there from 7 – 9pm to style customers in his autumn/winter 2010 collection. He will also give customers a pair of VIP Frieze art fair tickets as well as hand signed mementos of his work with any purchase from the Richard Nicoll collection. Take deep breath and keep reading!

Louis Vuitton has Alice Dellal playing a two-hour DJ set at its flagship store. Customers will also be invited to have their pictures taken in specially-installed booths which will print photos of shoppers as Vogue cover stars. See, and you thought you will never make it in Vogue!

At Burberry none other than Christopher Bailey will host an evening of Champagne and canapés, as well as offering shoppers the chance to win two tickets to the must-see Burberry spring/summer show at London’s Fashion week. A limited edition studded bracelet, inspired by the label's forthcoming show, will be sold exclusively at selected stores.

Diane von Furstenberg has planned events as well this year. The DVF's Bruton Street store will host a Studio 54-themed glamour party with a professional hair and make-up station and cocktails created specially by Claridge's. A photographer will be on hand to capture any perfect party moments. Plus, one picture will be chosen by Vogue's Verity Parker to win a DVF by H Stern gold pendant necklace. Come prepared in your most fabulous outfit.

Alexander McQueen is holding a prize draw at its Bond Street store to win a Britannia clutch bag. The British label is also launching an exclusive bracelet to celebrate the event.

At Giorgio Armani there is even more fashionable people to meet. Vogue's editor Alexandra Shulman and Giorgio Armani will be hosting the most glamorous cocktail party of the night at the Emporio Armani store on Bond Street. Meet the designer himself but be prepared as the crowd may prove to be unbreakable.

British designer Matthew Williamson will be teaming up with chic Moroccan restaurant Momo to transform the Bruton Street store into a Moroccan Souk, complete with a Gnawa music group, Moroccan-inspired drinks and canapés for guests. All guests visiting the store that evening will have the opportunity to enter a competition to win covetable front row tickets to the Williamson's London Fashion Week show in September. Matthew will also be making an appearance with a mystery star guest.

Harvey Nichols will be packed with designers on the night. Erdem, Christopher Kane and Martin Grant will be on hand to customise the Fashion’s Night Out charity T-shirts and tote bags on sale in store. The first floor will create an old-fashioned haberdashery area where designers will help you jazz up your piece. Have a picture taken with your favourite designer in one of the store's photo booths to solidify your fashion credentials.

Selfridges is a little bit low key this year. It will launch Mulberry’s pop-up shop unveiled by Emma Hill. Colin McDowell will host a conversation with Peter Pilotto while Lily Allen will celebrate the opening of her sister’s vintage store, Lucy in Disguise. Unfortunately there are better things to see elsewhere.

Urban Outfitters has the Arctic Monkeys performing live at their Oxford Street store. How cool is that!

The SHOWStudio Shop is Launching a new exhibition, In Wolves Clothing: Re-imagining the Doll, to join the global celebration of fashion and shopping. The exhibition dedicated to the humble doll in both its miniature and life-size forms. You can see works by Viktor & Rolf, Nick Knight and Peter Jensen. The exhibition will be held at 1-9 Bruton Place, London from September 9 until October 30 with a private view on September 8 from 6pm-8pm.

These are just some of the exciting events London has in store for its fashion loving crowd, so make sure you plan your night and enjoy the shopping! Send me a picture of your with your fave designer! It will be great fun in the most fabulously stylish way!

Alexander McQueen Cruise 2011 or What Sarah Burton Did After

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 13:33:00 +0000

Many questioned the future of the Alexander McQueen label after his untimely death earlier this year. To be honest I was one of those who were adamant that the label would not be able to survive without him mostly because his talent was so great and his legacy so complex that it was impossible to really pin down his “style”. He was the master of invention and surprise and he certainly never failed to surprise, to question, to challenge and to leave us wanting more. All that said when it comes to money to be made (or lost) Gucci Group wasted no time in doing their best to squash all rumours and doubts that the label will be no more by appointing, in May, Sarah Burton as creative director at Alexander McQueen. Of course the announcement did not surprise anyone, after all Burton has been by the designer’s side since her graduation from Central Saint Martin’s and was appointed head of womenswear design in 2000. She said that she “intends to stay true to his (McQueen’s) legacy” which I truly believe since she has not really been doing anything else but working with him at the label. For me the interesting things was to see how she manages to bring the new and fresh with a hint of unexpected without having to literally “copy” her master but rather infuse something of her own into the label. With Gucci group repeatedly saying that they are planning to expand the Alexander McQueen business the pressure on Burton to deliver to expectations is palpable. Lucky for her, Cruise and Resort collections are still being done and in a way a great “rehearsal” for her first full spring collection for the label coming up in October this year.

Alexander McQueen Cruise 2011 by Sarah Burton looks very much like…Alexander McQueen. “Materials include lacquered raffia, hand-worked lace, wool crepe and silk — in pinks and white with flashes of red, mint green and gold.” (WWD) Her woman was strong and warrior like inspired by “Hans Bellmer’s dolls and samurai warriors” but she certainly was not new. Saying that every piece in that collection was excellent and most importantly wearable - sales is what the label is really after if they want to expand. Don't you just want to float around in that long red number?

Maison Louis Vuitton?

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Tue, 25 May 2010 14:18:00 +0000

The corner shop on London's New Bond Street has been boarded for so long with only the massive LV logo there to remind us what may be happening behind the big all concealing boards. People passing everyday got so accustomed to this sight and so it kind of came as a surprise when the boards came down to reveal the store front for the all new, sparkly and shiny Louis Vuitton Maison! And according to WWD it has been worth the 3 years wait!

Tonight the shop opens its doors to only VIP guests with official opening times to the public from Friday 28th May and it is a “unapologetic shrine to luxury” (WWD) that must be visited to be believed “…with gold leafing on wooden fixtures; hand-carved marble logos set into the shiny floors; display cases and wall frames that whizz back and forth like electric toys, and an LED staircase that lights up in response to footsteps.” (WWD)

The only store bigger than the one we now have in London is the one in Paris and deservedly so. The new London store carries more products than you can even imagine including crocodile-covered caviar sets and drink cabinets. As this store has been 3 years in the making such an event is worth celebrating…with a spot of shopping of course! To mark the opening the store is releasing an exclusive collection of scarves with prints by Stephen Sprouse.

Yes it is VIP tonight but comes Friday it is open to all luxury loving and luxury appreciating crowds!

Pictures WWD

40 Years Of Browns – 40 Years Of Fashion Innovation

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Thu, 13 May 2010 13:26:00 +0000

Browns is the fashion mantra for many fashion living and breathing people in England and its owner Joan Burstein or Mrs B as she is known is also considered the fairy godmother for many fashion designers who started their career in her shop windows and with her support. On their website it says that the shop is “a temple of style in the heart of London” and that is exactly how it is perceived by many of its dedicated fans. I have long wanted to write something about this shop and its owner not only because of the amazing history behind its doors but also because of the effect its merchandise has on even ordinary passers by. I must admit this is the only store that made me cry in the middle of the day with real tears when I saw a Burberry coat in its windows. Many times I stood there and simply watched entranced the displays of Alexander McQueen, John Galliano, Hussein Chalayan, Missoni to name but a few. Browns was a real fashion revolutions in its hay times but to be honest nothing has changed since it first opened to the public in 1970s. The store is as strong, influencing fashion and introducing young talented fashion designers, as it has ever been thanks to the impeccable eye for talent that Joan Burstein has.

The Browns story is quite simple but it’s characters are nothing but. Joan married Sidney Burstein in 1946 and originally they run an underwear business together which did not succeed and was followed by a fashion shop on High Street Kensington called Feathers where the story goes that none other than Manolo Blahnik worked as a shop assistant. Remember that these were the days of great fashion trends, movers and shakers in England, when Biba was considered a fashion staple. Feathers did not waste time in trying to establish itself and quickly became the place to be for fashion that excites and thrills. The shop still exists today but it is in Knightsbridge with another store in Notting Hill.

When the Bursteins opened a small boutique on the ground floor of 27^th South Molton Street, nobody quite expected the success that the store will have and eventually take over numbers 23, 25 and 26 with Brown Focus opening its doors in 1997 concentrating on presenting new emerging designers and number 23 being exclusively for men. But Browns will be just another boutique if it was not for Mrs B and her talent for spotting great talent amongst young designers. She says “it is nothing more than a hunch”, “it just happens”, “it’s a gut feeling” and that’s exactly where the magic is, that’s where the fairy godmother dust comes from and that’s how true fashion superstars are born. Joan Burstein is credited for discovering Alexander McQueen, John Galliano, Hussein Chalayan, Commes des Garcons, Ralph Lauren, Missoni, Krizia, Jil Sander and many more.

Browns today is just as edgy, exciting, trendy and fashion forward as it has always been. It is the place to go for the latest and most talented fashion designers. This year this iconic store is celebrating 40 years in business with clientèle that keeps growing with each generation that passes. It is a milestone and the store is eager to celebrate in style. There are fashion events planned throughout the year the most recent is a fashion exhibition celebrating 40 Years Of Fashion Innovation starting on May 13^th. “The exhibition takes a nostalgic walk down memory lane - through the eyes of Browns. So expect to see iconic pictures and original vintage archive pieces from designers such as Ralph Lauren, Missoni and Comme des Garcon - all of whom Joan Burstein was responsible for importing to Europe in the 70’s and 80’s” You will also be able to see Brown’s story through pictures, articles and shop floor plans. The exhibition is accompanied by a limited edition book called appropriately “Browns, 40 Years in Fashion”, featuring 40 photographs by Paolo Roversi with a forward by Ralph Lauren and 40 questions and answers with Joan Burstein. The book will be available to purchase at the exhibition and online at www.brownsfashion.com

You can visit the exhibition at The Regent Penthouses and Lofts, The Courtyard, 16-18 Marshall Street, London, W1F 7BG until 30th May. Entrance is FREE.

Young Bulgarian Fashion At Its Best - Hot Label Alert

noreply@blogger.com (Izabel Raffy) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 09:29:00 +0000

Many of you love fashion but rarely associate it with places like Bulgaria. Fashion is hot, cool, sometimes crazy but always exciting and it usually comes from Paris, Milan, London, New York or even Tokyo. But great, inspiring fashion comes from small and unexpected places like Bulgaria. Fashion duo - jewellery designer Hristo Voivodov and womenswear designer Byliana Sakalieva are a real proof how quickly great fashion can break down borders. They established MysticBulgaria in 2007 and originally showed off their quirky, fresh and original designs in a small run down place in their home town which they decorated as much as they could. Only a year later the label made their UK début at London’s hip independent trade-show Margin showcasing their directional denim range and organic leather accessories to a great success. The label continued to win dedicated fashion followers not only in Bulgaria but also in UK where the interest in their fashion creations was growing mostly due to their eponymous little black dress collection (MysticBulgaria LBD) which offers timeless pieces. MBG designs have been spotted on countless local celebrities, and have been used in fashion magazine editorials in Bulgaria and Europe. Fast-forward 2010 and couple of collections later Mystic Bulgaria are due to take a big step forward – they are going international with their first UK online store www.mbg-shop.co.uk

The online shop is officially live this week and it will showcase MBG’s true talent for fashionable, original and exciting leather and silver jewellery pieces by Hristo Voivodov, which already has a cult following and Byliana’s feminine and timeless style approach to womenswear that carries charm, sophistication and joyful playfulness through ruffles, frills and volume. Their white puff sleeve shirt is one of my favourites and it is already set to become a wardrobe staple for trendy office girls while their LIFE collection is full of …well life and spirit of summer. Hristo’s original leather accessories do not come short either – the Geometric Collection has all current fashion trends twisted and delivered with great craftsmanship through strong geometric shapes and stand out block colours. He also recently ventured into silver jewellery and the Logo Collection was born which plays cleverly with the brand’s logo with the silver feather detail pendant being my favourite from the series.

There is no doubt that MBG has a lot to offer when it comes to original, exciting and unique apparel in times when more than before people want to stand out and feel different and special. Talent and dedication to fashion art is truly inspirational especially when it comes from places where designer’s development and creative work are in constant battle with sharp, harsh economic reality as the situation currently is in Bulgaria. MBG are bravely breaking out of the wall of their small fashion boutique shop always full and buzzing with people, ready to take on new followers and win the hearts of the European fashion crowd. MBG show Bulgarian fashion at its best and is quickly becoming the new label to watch!

Shop their womenswear and jewellery collection now at www.mbg-shop.co.uk