fashioned by love | British fashion blog

Marni, oh Marni, the look of love

2013-06-18T08:00:00.000+01:00

The burnt orange mixed with khahi, topped with a little burgundy and cinched with the deepest, the expensive kind of, black, the necklace, the bow (they even included the bow as if it was destined for me!), the heels, the loveliest bag. It’s wearable, it makes me smile, it makes me feel alive. It must be love, love, love… and Marni magic.

Photo source: Marni Resort 2014 via wwd.com

Angela Lindvall in Vogue UK 2000

2013-06-17T08:00:00.000+01:00

Couture that never age in an over-decade old editorial from the December 2000 issue of British Vogue. Angela Lindvall, Mario Testino and yards and yards of wearable fantasy.

Photo source: Vogue UK December 2000

Week of fashion moments

2013-06-14T13:22:00.001+01:00

It’s amazing how many significant (and not so significant) events can happen in a short space of time – some were totally unexpected and others – much anticipated and important for they will certainly become a part of the history of fashion.

So here is a little fashion digest. From me to you.

* The image above is my favourite photo of the week that belongs to the Rochas Resort 2014 collection.

* Following his exclusive interview published in the July issue of Vanity Fair, John Galliano talks candidly to Charlie Rose discussing his childhood, most excited fashion moments, addictions, regrets, betrayal and friendships. A must see.

* H&M did it again. The new collaboration between the high street brand and Isabel Marant will be sold in shops and on-line on 14 November. Anticipate affordable prices, first ever Marant’s for men ready-to-wear and the longest queues in history.

* Emma Hill packs her Mulberry bags for good and will be leaving the brand after finishing the Spring/Summer 2014 collection due to be presented in September 2014.

* Creative souls looking for royalty free music to use for all kinds of stylish projects, from fashion blogs and on-line boutiques to professionally presented videos and even fashion shows, will definitely find BeatSuite a useful place to visit.

* The new and most comprehensive biography of Alexander McQueen, Alexander McQueen: The Life and Legacy by Judith Watt, is due to be released on 27 August 2014. Pre-order your copy here.

* Another title many will be excited to get their hands on is Dior Impressions: The Inspiration and Influence of Impressionism at the House of Dior inspired by art and Dior creations and published to accompany the Impressions Dior exhibition presented at the Musée Christian Dior in Granville. The book features beautiful works by Monet, Renoir, Degas as well as stunning couture gowns.

* Sales always come to those who wait. Visit Bastyan Fashion, Browns, Forzieri, Jaeger, Jigsaw, Joseph, J.Crew, Kurt Geiger, Monnier Frères, My Wardrobe, Nine West, Net-a-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue and Whistles to find gorgeous fashion steals.

Photo source: Rochas Resort 2014 via wwd.com

Lanvin Resort 2014

2013-06-13T08:00:00.000+01:00

One can easily understand why women love Alber Elbaz so much. He creates the clothes that, in some subtle ways, remind of the most beautiful pieces from the past collections we’re already in love with, whilst simultaneously gives us designs that feel fresh, youthful and suitable for practically any occasion.

Resort 2014 was like a bag of assorted sweets – all kinds of flavours, all sorts of colours with a few classic chocolate nibs thrown in to please the admirers of simplicity and timeless elegance.

If I could wear Lanvin, these would be the clothes I chose - the white dress and black leather bag being my absolute favourite.

Photo source: wwd.com, fashionising.com

Stylish quote

2013-06-12T08:00:00.000+01:00

“People are so conditioned to buy the wrong thing because it’s the “hot” thing.”

Marc Jacobs

Photo source: Vogue Germany October 2012

Charlotte by Liam Fahy

2013-06-11T10:34:00.001+01:00

It took me a while to find this fascinating creature and seconds – to fall in love.

She is seductive. She is mysterious. She is a beautiful coquette. She is perfection of a shoe, with the soft curve of the toe, stiletto heel and, of course, the bow. Ah, those bows… So wonderful, so me. I have a soft spot for bow closures and adornments – Alexis Mabille would be proud of me.

Her name is Charlotte. She is a hand-made satin bow pump and a part of the Film Noir collection designed by Liam Fahy.

Photo source: liamfahy.com

Natalia Vodianova in Madame Figaro 2008

2013-06-10T12:43:00.001+01:00

Spent time staring at the screen, gathering thoughts and trying to come up with the opening sentence. Went off, found pupster sleeping on my pillow, gave him a quick cuddle, returned to the PC. No catchy line for the blog, as you can see.

How was your weekend? Ours went so quickly it’s almost unfair. Most of it was spent at home since I am still recovering, but we did manage to take the dog to one of his (and lets be honest, our) favourite places where he could run free and get back to innocence while we wandered through the wilderness soaking up some sunshine and inhaling intoxicating fragrances of lilac and elderflower blended in the cool crisp air - the most beautiful perfumes nature could only create this time of year.

Photo source: Madame Figaro August 2008

Private sale and you are invited

2013-06-07T12:36:00.001+01:00

It’s this time of the year again to let your fingers touch the keyboard, get on-line and find your dream bag. Monnier Frères, one of my favourite shopping destination, is hosting another tempting sale offering up to 50% off some of the most desirable and fabulous handbags you could think of (including brands that aren’t available anywhere else). So why not treat yourself? I know it’s not Christmas or birthday (though there is always a birthday girl out there), but dreams don’t necessarily need a calendar to come true.

My best picks: 1. Marc by Marc Jacobs, 2. Michael Kors, 3. Angel Jackson, 4. Diane von Furstenberg, 5. Moschino, 6. Vanessa Bruno, 7. Tory Burch, 8. See by Chloe, 9. Carven, 10. Tila March, 11. Sonia Rykiel, 12. Marc Jacobs, 13. Gerard Darel, 14. Nina Ricci

Photo source: Amica Italy August 2010

I am the cute one!

2013-06-06T08:00:00.000+01:00

They became the new Mattel dolls in 2000 and 2005, faces of Badgley & Mischka campaign in 2006, were ranked as the eleventh-richest women in entertainment in 2007, successfully launched fashion labels, The Row and Elizabeth & James as well as StyleMint, designed clothing lines for Dualstar (the very first label of their own), J.C. Penney and Wal-Mart, published the book Influence, covered Vogue’s Best Dressed issue in 2011 and were nominated for the prestigious CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year award in 2012.

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have been living a dream since they were 9 months old and, for me, are probably the coolest and most fabulous twins. I admit, I don’t really follow them all the time, but when I make a discovery like this little video below, I simply have to share the clip (and their fashion bio) with you.

Now… All together, inhale and go “Awwwwwwwwwwww…”

Photo source: Vogue US April 2011

Stylish quote

2013-06-05T08:00:00.000+01:00

“Fashion is about selection, editing. You have to be very severe to your selection, so you keep something to yourself – even in the way you present yourself.”

Nicolas Ghesquière

Photo source: Elle France February 2010

Michael Kors Resort 2014

2013-06-04T11:26:00.001+01:00

Camel head to toe, colour-blocking, buttery soft, yummy, scrumptious leather, graphic shapes tailored to perfection, a dash of 1970s, a touch of gold, lucite shoes that make you feel like you are floating on air, in every way… Modern glamour courtesy of Michael Kors (and my favourite looks from his beautiful Resort 2014 collection).

Photo source: fashionising.com

Bohème D’Été

2013-06-03T12:21:00.001+01:00

I have been saving this gorgeous story created by Bruce Weber for the June/July 2005 issue of Vogue Paris because I wanted to use the images to celebrate the beginning of summer. A little bit of sun soaked, sensual, blissful reverie… So absolutely perfect in every way.

P.S. In case you wondered where I’ve disappeared lately… I’ve been dealing with something personal for the last couple of weeks and as a result (and sheer discomfort that stops me from using my computer as much as I’d love/needed to) decided to take a week off blogging. There will still be posts for you to browse in case you feel like stopping by, but I am afraid I won’t be around much until I am better (which will, hopefully, happen in a week or, fingers crossed, sooner…)

Photo source: Vogue Paris June/July 2005

Timeless chic: Hermes 2006

2013-05-31T08:00:00.000+01:00

Hermes Spring/Summer 2006 Ready-to-Wear collection and campaign were, by far, my absolute favourite ones in the entire history of Hermes.

The looks designed by Jean Paul Gaultier are FLAWLESS and, luckily for us, can be recreated with a few items any girl should have in her wardrobe anyway – a white shirt (and a shirt dress), a pencil skirt, classic trousers, a cardi, a plisse dress, tan leather accessories (with a splash of signature orange here and there), a fedora and a pair of ankle-wrap sandals or espadrilles. Perfect summer styling for the lovers of classic and sophisticated fashion.

Photo source: wwd.com

Bag of the Month: May is for Marni

2013-05-30T08:00:00.000+01:00

I have just realised that first letter of the brand name of my Bag of the Month so far matched the first letter of the month it was featured in. April was for the Angel Jackson sweetheart and this Marni tote stole the spot in May.

Why, after my long-winded speed on discovering new and unknown, I went for Marni?

I love the brand and its quirky and playful attitude to fashion. I feel this is how everything great is made – the process seems effortless and the result doesn’t need numerous magazine editorials to be appreciated.

This tote, crafted from soft calfskin leather, is a great example of what I call an investment buy. It’s simple, but not boring. It’s eye-catching and memorable, but, unlike some well-known brand bags, isn’t epidemically carried by every “fashionista” and celebrity, so it neither hurts my eye nor causes allergic reaction.

I love this tote.

It’s sophisticated and timeless.

And currently on sale.

Which makes it absolutely, 100%, totally and utterly perfect.

Stylish quote

2013-05-29T08:00:00.000+01:00

“Sexiness and confidence come from feeling relaxed in your clothes. It’s not about wearing a piece of architecture.”

Hannah MacGibbon

Photo source: Harper’s Bazaar US May 2010

Burberry Prorsum Resort 2014

2013-05-28T08:00:00.000+01:00

Finally, finally, after a Quality Street foils, flats and latex, I’ve got back the Burberry Prorsum I’ve always loved and felt proud of. The Resort 2014 collection made my heart break into a happy waltzing dance. If Christopher Bailey was a friend, I’d kiss and hug him and told him how fantastic he was.

The cool pastels, lace and soft knits, gift wrapped evening gowns (no girl could resist those bows), fold-over clutches, totes, sculpted ankle boots and delicate sandals, handfuls of jewels and absolutely stunning coats were simply unforgettable. Modern elegance is how I’d describe it.

Photo source: fashionising.com

Natalia Vodianova in Jalouse 2009

2013-05-27T08:00:00.000+01:00

Photo source: Jalouse April 2009

A very British kind of weekend

2013-05-25T20:06:00.001+01:00

Last night I did something I only ever do in winter. I sat in front of my pc with a cup of English tea and bought a pair of fluffy sheepskin slippers and a wool cardigan because I finally learned that one cannot have too many cardigans or slippers when living in England because the true happiness is all about keeping ones feet and shoulders warm. I even considered placing an order for some personalised candles - the choice of warming scents of honey and oriental spices sounded quite appealing on a cold night. It really felt as if the spring has forgotten us.

This morning the slippers arrived. And so did the bright blue sky and sunshine. The country side suddenly looked inviting. We packed our little pupster in a car and went for a little drive here and a little walk there to make the most out of this beautiful day.

Maybe summer is really on its way? Though, being British, there’s no way I am cancelling my order for a cardi.

Photo source: Vogue Paris October 2002

Equestrian fashion

2013-05-24T08:00:00.000+01:00

Let the title play a sweet trick with your mind. Feel free to jump between the lines. Today we are not going to talk about a trend that seems to never go out of fashion, the Balenciaga hats circa 2006, Givenchy feline hybrids from 2011, Ralph Lauren jackets or Tommy Hilfiger Fall 2012 campaign. We won’t even discuss the comfort of Dubarry boots favoured among those country, horse and hound loving folks who have to get out there whatever the weather.

A bit of trivia about those boots before I continue. Since the company is based in Ireland, I thought that the brand name would be of an Irish origin, too. After all, it sounds Irish. Surprisingly, “Dubarry” came from Madame du Barry, a famous French courtesan – a decision made to diﬀerentiate the company from other Irish brands and make it sound more European. Not sure if the European strategy worked, but the blend if history and fashion did indeed make me smile.

But enough about that – I realise some of you might be nodding off by now…

The whole idea for this post was inspired by my ode to poodles. I adore creature-focused posts very much and always wanted to continue the series, but somehow it took me a while.

I chose horses. They are my unicorns – beautiful, mysterious, graceful and absolutely fascinating. I was obsessed with them as a child, but never really got a chance to meet a horse “in person” and touch it until I moved countries.

English country side and horses are inseparable. You see these stunning animals wandering in the fog covered fields, protected from the chill and rain by cosy turnout rugs, and then, as soon as the first rays of sunshine laser-cut the clouds – happily galloping through the woods leaving a haze of powdery dust behind, like a memory of a miracle that you just happened to witness.

Photo source: Vogue Germany February 2011, Amica August 2012, Vogue Paris November 2005, Vogue Paris May 2013, Grazia Italia 2011, Vogue UK June 2004, Vogue US October 2004, Vogue US September 2003, Chanel campaign F/W 2009, Vogue US September 2005, Elle Russia July 2011, W May 2002, Harper’s Bazaar US August 2010, Qvest 2010, C Magazine Spring 2012 via FGR, Vogue US May 1994, Vogue US April 2010, Grazia Italia September 2011 via FGR, Marie Claire Germany 2002, Harper’s Bazaar UK August 2012, Vogue Italia March 2008, Vogue Japan May 2013

Location, location, location – story continues

2013-05-23T08:00:00.000+01:00

I made a few discoveries this week. A not-so-good one was the fact that somebody not only really like my idea of poodle inspired fashion editorials, they decided to take all of the photos I’ve collected over the years and retouched to make them look their best and then created a post of their own without any reference to the source (i.e., Fashioned by Love). Such a discovery made me sick. This isn’t the first time it happened to me and while I don’t mind people using the photos I think it’s unfair when they just flush down all the hard work that goes into the original post and give you a zero credit. So that was quite a highlight of my day.

A much better news came in a form of a photo that resurfaced while I was clearing up my disk storage. It wasn’t just the picture that made me smile, but the message that was carefully placed in a corner of it. Patisserie Cador, it read.

Apparently, the charming tea salon decorated in the style of Louis XVI was situated on the corner of rue de Louvre and 2, rue Amiral de Coligny. Some say it was closed for renovations and turned into a snack shop. If you are in Paris and have time to visit and check, please do share an update. I would really love and appreciate that.

Photo source: Vogue US March 1999, Vogue US January 1995, InStyle US November 1999

Stylish quote

2013-05-22T08:00:00.000+01:00

“Fashion is a language that creates itself in clothes

to interpret reality.”

Karl Lagerfeld

Photo source: Grazia Russia December 2009

25 most beautiful maxi dresses

2013-05-21T09:37:00.001+01:00

Long dresses are definitely my current obsession. Though it’s been over ten years now since I wore one, I still remember the two I had back then – simple shape, floral pattern, pull-on-and-go attitude… The summers were hot and the maxi dresses were my uniform. I practically lived in them.

Fast forward through a decade free from ground sweeping lengths, and the switch inside my head goes off again, stimulated by both the need for a comfortable 24/7 frock and the memory of that Michael Kors broderie anglaise perfection.

It turns out that finding the one isn’t as easy as it seems, so I put together a list of dresses to suit different shapes and budgets, in case you have been on a quest, too.

The only style rule (or gentle reminder) when choosing your perfect maxi dress is making sure that, should you need/want to wear high heel shoes or wedges, you do pick the right length for the dress – having your shoes and ankles showing is never chic…

Shopping list: 1. Embellished necklace printed dress (£56), 2. Marala embroidered cotton dress (£158 Was £395), 3. Banana & Melon dress (£315), 4. Glennis printed wrap dress (£242 Was £485), 5. Attic & Barn floral print dress (£204), 6. Cool change bamboo print bandeau dress (£185), 7. Chacharel printed dress (£964), 8. Sweetheart Hilow maxi dress (£179)

Shopping list: 9. Hateley linen maxi dress, Weekend by MaxMara (£152) (similar, but more budget friendly Goddiva bandeau maxi dress, £45), 10. Ilonie striped maxi dress, Paul & Joe (£650), 11. Scarf print handkerchief dress, Michael by Michael Kors (£305), 12. Printed maxi dress, Thakoon Addition (£168 Was £558), 13. Emilio Pucci strapless printed gown (£835 Was £1855), 14. Long floral print dress, JS Collection (£76 Was £190), 15. Strapless printed gown (£79.99), 16. Colour-block silk halter-neck dress, Haute Hippie (£179 Was £540)

Shopping list: 17. Genie printed stretch-jersey maxi dress, Tart (£99 Was £220), 18. Printed jersey maxi dress, T-Bags (£85 Was £180), 19. Tabia long dress, Theory (£335), 20. Tie-dye silk maxi dress, Raquel Allegra (£490), 21. Double layer maxi dress, Whistles (£135), 22. Rio embroidered maxi dress (£180), 23. Strapless striped maxi dress, Tsumori Chisato (£388), 24. Aruba split maxi dress, Heidi Klein (£320), 25. Greek maxi dress, Hoss Intropia (£258)

Photo source: Harper’s Bazaar US April 2011

Eva Herzigova in Glamour France 1992

2013-05-20T08:00:00.000+01:00

Life resembling a classic movie seeing through the lens of Tiziano Magni who photographed nineteen year old Eva Herzigova for this La Chemise story featured in the April 1992 issue of French Glamour.

Photo source: Glamour France April 1992 via tfs

Timeless chic: Michael Kors 2006

2013-05-17T08:00:00.000+01:00

Just thought of another topic for the series to showcase some of my favourite looks from the past. Those, I feel, are absolutely ageless, incredibly elegant and memorable. At least, for me.

This also proves my opinion that fashion collections are a bit like wine. You get seasons that are good and then there are others that take your breath away.

And now, lets focus on the clothes that pretty much inspired me to share this story…

Over the years of fashion heartbreaks and triumphs I’ve come to realise that if you see a garment you are in love with, you’ve got to buy it. If you can’t afford it straight away – wait for sales and set the cash aside while playing the painful waiting game – seeing your piggy bank growing really does make up for the agony. Search high and low on ebay and in outlets. And if you are lucky enough to find this piece – make it yours.

Alright, I am in no way insisting on acquiring everything you happened to adore because there is always a special something that will stand out. Sometimes there will be a few things. Take your time. Do not rush. Treat it like a long-term relationship you are about to start. A new friendship. And choose the dream dress. Or jacket. Or whatever makes your brain go all gooey…

Exactly the way mine feels every time I look at Inguna and the dress she is wearing, in particular.

This was my dream dress. Of course, I couldn’t afford it off the rack, so I decided to wait and see what happens. Unfortunately for me, Spring 2006 was a marvellous year as far as fashion collections were concerned and my wish list included a few other dresses (some to be shared over the last few weeks) including the DVF’s Taffy. When the sales came and both dresses were available, I had to make a decision and choose one… Two would be too expensive. And so Taffy moved in with me. Michael Kors was left behind.

I knew I made the right choice because I still wear the DvF dress. But not a summer goes by when I don’t think of that Michael Kors perfection. I should have bought both of them… It would feel totally impractical and borderline insane, but we would have such a fabulous time together for many years to come!

As for the looks below – they are my inspiration and have always been (cannot believe it’s been 7, SEVEN (!!!), years!!!). It is about the white and tan, simplicity, styling and sun kissed glowing skin. So elegant, so chic, so timeless…

Photo source: wwd.com

Lucy

2013-05-16T08:00:00.000+01:00

Saw this beautiful blushing darling the other day staring at me in all its glory. Frankly, love the entire “family” as Lucy has little sisters, oddly, also called “Lucy”. Either of the girls would make a perfect summer accessory, especially if white seems like a touch too high maintenance. They come with 50% off price tag, by the way.

Pick yours here.