Shmotter Official Blog

Nothing to wear syndrome

2010-03-08T04:00:00.000-08:00

I have a constant feeling that “I have nothing to wear”. My wardrobe is full of clothes. However “nothing to wear” syndrome never leaves me. It's epidemic, I hear about it from every single woman. What is it? Is it a sickness or obsession?

I've opened my wardrobe and realized that a lot of items do not match with each other. They clashed in every single combination; don’t match by colors and style.

In order to keep this syndrome to the minimum you have to follow following tips:

Buy your clothes very carefully, it’s very important to visualize it with other items from your wardrobe... how you can mix and match or perhaps ask for assistance.

Sort your wardrobe and give away any items that you haven’t worn for 2 seasons or perhaps even more.

Stick to classics, it’s easier to wear and match it with other clothes.

The Classics

2010-02-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

Every wardrobe needs a set a classic pieces that can be mixed and matched with virtually everything. This is my list, but you may have others that you feel are essentials, so make sure you respond to the blog to add in your classics to the list. Here goes - if you haven't got these in your wardrobe, then start shopping on shmotter now!

-Crisp white shirt
-White t-shirt
-Denim jeans
-Denim short skirt
-Trench coat
-Colourful scarf
-Black opaque tights
-Black 3/4 leggings
-Black tuxedo-style jacket
-Pencil skirt
-Black singlet top

And some extras include:
-Nude underwear
-Silver hoop earrings
-Knee-high black boots
-Black stilettos
-Red lipstick

What else do you think should be on the "classics" list?

Lavender Dreams

2010-01-31T20:16:00.000-08:00

Purple, lavender and grey have been touted as this season’s hottest upcoming colours, but how can you best incorporate these colours into your existing wardrobe?

To start, lavender is a statement colour and should be the star in any outfit. Fergie’s recent Golden Globes appearance in hues of Elie Saab lavender secured this colour, and its associated palette, as one of the hottest for the season. Sandra Bullock also looked stunning in a stronger shade of purple, receiving rave media reviews for bringing a strength and confidence to the red carpet. While these eye-catching shades of purple and lavender can be best demonstrated through after five dresses and blocks of singular colour, they can also add a unique edge to work outfits. Introducing hints of these shades through soft silk scarves, leather hand bags, linen skirts and crisp cotton shirts is sure to see any old suit enlivened, and is a great way to edge your wardrobe into the new season.

Thee colours also complement all shades of grey, as well as linen beige and grey undertone greens. Whilst these new season colours are a fresh take on some of the more traditional nautical and primary colour combinations, the versatility of the new season trend should see that lavender and purple additions to your wardrobe remain current and fashionable for many seasons to come.

Gareth Pugh - Extreme Fashion

2009-12-18T05:20:00.000-08:00

Gareth Pugh is a British designer, who trained at City of Sunderland College and Central St Martins before interning with Rick Owens in Paris. His final collection at St Martins won him the attention of Senior Fashion Editor at Dazed and Confused and he was invited to participate in a Fashion East show in 2005. His clothes are well known for their drama and whilst he has always drawn a mixture of criticism and praise, his designs are difficult to ignore.

Gareth's work is becoming more internationally recognised as stars like Kylie Minogue, Lady Gaga and Beyonce have been pictured in his clothes. But until recently his work and designs were viewed as more experimental than wearable. In March 2007, he claimed that he had never sold a single dress. Some have likened his work to the likes of Alexander McQueen, John Galliano and Vivienne Westwood in being a mixture of fashion and performance art. His clothes are like wearable sculptures and draw inspiration from Britain's extreme club scene including inflated PVC shapes, masks and leggings.

Gareth Pugh has recently shown a move towards commercially viable designs that are more wearable but still have an element of the experimentation that has contributed to his success. Here are just a few of the outfits created on Shmotter using pieces by Gareth Pugh.

Yeah Baby by Inna

1881 by Wally

Batgirl by Laedanla

Style Guru or Completely Gaga?

2009-12-17T01:28:00.000-08:00

Lady Gaga's style is a bit like Marmite. You either love it or you hate it. Some would consider her an innovator, trend setter and style guru whilst others just consider her completely bonkers. I guessing there is probably a bit of both, but as so many great style icons and personalities of the past, she doesn't follow trends, she does her own thing, perhaps shaping new trends. As Coco Chanel once said, "in order to irreplaceable, one must always be different" and Lady Gaga is certainly different (but any similarities to Coco Chanel end there).

To describe Lady Gaga's style is quite difficult. It is eye catching and aims to gather as much attention as possible. It is also constantly evolving and but always with the same sense of drama. Lady Gaga is however a performer and her clothes are as much a part of her act as an actor in a theatres costume. She also show cases the work of so many designers and giving them credibility and exposure in the same sort of way that the couture fashion shows draw attention to a designer, although most of us would never wear the actual couture clothes.

Perhaps the rest of us could not get away with such outfits but, we can take inspiration from her outfits and adapt to suit ourselves. I particularly love the way she uses dramatic accessories and head dresses and would love to try creating an outfit using a hat or head dress as the feature. Shoulders have also been a key feature in her most recent outfits, another interesting feature for creating an outfit.

How does Lady Gaga influence your style and outfits?

Performing at the at the Open A.I.R. Summer Concert Series in New York in May 2008.

At the Interscope, Geffen, and A&M Records American Music Awards After-Party on November 23, 2008 in Hollywood.

At her party after theMTV Video Music September 13, 2009 in New York City.

At the MTV Video Music Awards at Radio City Music Hall on September 13, 2009 in New York City.

pictures from www.baltimoresun.com

The Wedge Shoe or Boot

2009-12-16T03:27:00.001-08:00

Wedge shoes have gone in and out of fashion over the years but they have always proved to be one of the easiest ways to wear a heel. The wedge not only looks gorgeous but also allows us to gain height and lengthen our legs without breaking our necks or mastering the art of walking in stilettos. The wedge also has a great aesthetic, providing an elegant but solid looking shoe to finish off any outfit. The triangular shape of the heel is a feature in its own right and makes the wedge shoe a versatile option for wearing with both skirts and trousers without the fragility and formal look that many high heeled shoes have.

This season, the good news is that the wedges are back in fashion. Shoes, boots and even trainers you can find a wedge to go with almost any outfit. How will you wear yours?

Untitled by Elena

A tan colour sandal with a cork wedge can play clever trick on the eye. The neutral shades blend with the skin colour for the legs making them appear longer. Is there any girl out there that wouldn't love to have longer legs? a great option for holiday outfits or those living in hotter climates to wear with shorts or short skirts.

Alain Qulici rocks my world by clothes_pony

The ankle boot is another big trend this season, combined with the wedge it gives a really on trend look for daytime or evening. This is definitely one of this seaons wardrobe staples.

Untitled by Inna

For a really casual take on the wedge shoe, the wedge sneaker is perfect. Great for those that like to dress casually but want or need a bit of extra height. This very desirable pair by Chloe would be perfect for every day wear. As with the tan wedge sandals, they elongate the legs so look great with shorts.

Night Out by Jillianfarber

For a classic outfit wedge court shoes are a great update on the traditional court shoe. This suede pair by Charlotte Olympia also combine a platform sole for even more height.

A true classic - the Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress

2009-12-08T13:36:00.000-08:00

Whilst some styles of clothing are merely passing trends, there are some styles that are classic, they stand the test of time and they never really go out of fashion. The wrap dress is definitely one of these trends. First designed by Diane Von Furstenberg in the 1973, it has become a staple in some many women's wardrobes, many have tried to copy it, but none live up to those created at Diane Von Furstenberg. The dress was a signature piece for Diane and was designed (as were her other pieces) to celebrate women's strength and confidence but was loved by its devoted followers for its ability to flatter.

Each season Diane Von Furstenberg produces new and updated versions of the wrap dress. I remember a few years back a very desirable fuschia pink cashmere one. This Ariana dress is a recent version in luxurious silk and the flattering and sophisticated alternative to black - navy. It is brought right up to date with a large bow an detailed neckline.

This dress looks great when accessorised with chunky but simple gold or silver and navy blue accessories. How would you wear yours?

Formal But Funky by pru_robson

The sky of Sahara by Maryamin

Have a sparkly Christmas

2009-12-07T11:46:00.000-08:00

The spy who came in from the cold by Maryamin

....purple by zeky18

Perfect for New Years by Bridgetac112

If ever, there was a time to get dressed up in some sparkle it was Christmas. After we decorate out Christmas trees and houses with as much sparkly tinsel as we can, why not decorate ourselves. This Christmas, sparkle lovers are particularly lucky that sequins are such a big trend. The perfect opportunity to go completely overboard with the sparkles. In the past a bit of sparkle was enough for anyone but this season , you can get away with all over sparkle in any colour that you choose from black to metallic silvers and gold to purples.

If you are going to a party sequins are a great choice, they will really catch the light as you dance. The a sequin mini dress or tunic with trousers is a great alternative to the predictable little black dress. For those who are really adventurous, you don't need to save it until the evening, you can sparkle all day long in this seasons sequin trousers or 'trackies' or add some sequined accessories to your usual daytime outfit.

Shake a Tail Feather

2009-11-30T11:27:00.000-08:00

Feathers are such a great way to make a real style statement. They are opulent and luxurious. They are also a great way to add interest and texture to any outfit. As they were designed by nature to be both functional and ornamental, they really add something special to an outfit, whether they are glossy and black, neutral colours for a toned down look or bright colours like greens and purples. Their intricate structure even makes them great for jewellery

This season feathers made a big appearance on the catwalks. At PPQ feather trimmed muff bags, at Alexander McQueen, a dress made entirely of feathers, an elaborate sequin and feather trimmed dresses at Elie Saab and feather trim along one sleeve at Givenchy. There is something both theatrical and magical about feathers that makes them perfect for party dresses but also for adding a bit of glamour to an every day outfit. There are so many different ways that you can add feathers to your outfit from feather inspired jewellery or prints, to small amounts of feather trim on a piece of clothing or accessories. If you really want to rock this trend you can go for a feathered skirt or dress and for the really brave combine with feathered accessories. Get some inspiration for your feathered outfits with these lovely sets.

Day in a park

Les Plumes by Melisay

C'est Froid by Melisay

Ultra Glam by Sassygirl

Stretch Knee High Boots by Laedanla

The Draped Dress

2009-11-30T06:07:00.000-08:00

Allen Schwartz at Chickdowntown.com draped cocktail dress

Giambattista Valli one shoulder jersey floor length dress

Donna Karen belted and draped dress

Anne Demeulemeester draped dress

If there is one dress on almost everyone's wish list for the season, it has to be the draped dress. It was seen at so many of the autumn /winter shows including Peter Pilotto, Donna Karen, Versace and Vivienne Westwood, all of whom are considered masters of drape. The draped dress brings new meaning to the words graceful and elegant, giving a soft and flattering silhouette. It has a definite feeling of Greek goddess about it. Most draped dresses are made of a jersey material which drapes so well due to it weight, but satin and chiffon are also popular choices

The beauty of draping is the way that it skims over the body instead of clinging making it so flattering and wearable for anyone. The folds of material also hide and disguise any lumps or bumps. Finally the vertical and diagonal lines created by the draping of the material have an elongating effect make the wearer appear taller and slimmer. This look works well for all sorts of occasions including a floor sweeping evening gown, cocktail dress and even a more casual day dress.

How do you wear yours? Create an outfit using this season's draped dress.

Rock Chic is Here to Stay

2009-11-27T01:36:00.000-08:00

The rock chic trend just keeps on coming back season after season, perhaps it just never goes away. It can be glam with heels or a more relaxed look with boots that screams "I don't give a ...". One of the key components of this look is a black leather jacket, the more worn looking the better. This look is regularly worn by celebrities and rock stars themselves but it's popularity is probably due to it being such an easy look to put together. Skin tight jeans, leather trousers, dark colours, studs and boots are also part of this trend, but you don't have to wear all of these at once. For a lower key and more wearable rock chic look, try combining just a few of these elements with a contrasting style perhaps a floral or baby pink chiffon dress.

Country Chocolate by Vincenzomarcio

This outfit combines browns and chiffon for a subtle effect, but the Rick Owens zipped leather jacket adds a definite rock chic edge.

FUNNY LOL created by Tomatos

This is a great casual version of the look. blue jeans and court shoes combined with a denim waist coat and leather jacket with zippers and just a little be of sparkle for a bit of glamour.

Untitled by Hayxly143

This outfit is for the unashamed and completely full on glam rock chic. Those boots such a statement and when combined with skinny jeans, a black vest top and Haider Ackermann leather jacket, they rock!

Join the Save Luella Campaign

2009-11-19T03:18:00.000-08:00

picture from http://www.style.com/

British fashion bloggers and fashionistas around the world are joining the Save Luella Campaign and pledging their support for the British designer Luella Bartley whose label Luella ceased trading on 10th November. The brands backer Club 21 which had been its global licensee for ready-to-wear and accessories since 2003, announced that it would no longer be investing in its relationship with Luella Bartley Ltd. Luella is now looking for a new backer.

The sudden news of Luella's plight has made big news on the Internet as fashion bloggers and fashionistas join the call to Save Luella. A Save Luella Facebook group and Save Luella campaign on Twitter have attracted hundreds and thousands of fans and supporters. Bloggers are posting their own individual posts featuring their favourite Luella pieces and Luella inspired outfits.

Luella is known for her pretty dresses and feminine clothes with a quirky twist. Many of her clothes feature her signature bows and floral patterns as well as bright colour combinations and innovative styles. Why not show your support for Luella by designing your own Luella inspired outfit?

Come back Luella by Cheathcote

What happened to Lily?

2009-11-13T02:16:00.000-08:00

What happened to the tracksuit and Ugg boot wearing Lily that we used to know and love? Lily has gone all stylish and glamorous. She seems to have blossomed into a very beautiful young lady and is now hanging out with the likes of Karl Lagerfield and dressing in the hottest labels. I love Lily's new style, is is polished and sophisticated, a far cry from her teenage style of trainers and prom dresses. Lily's striking dark hair, which is styled so carefully into a slightly dishevelled uo do, looks great with both bold and pale colours. She is now no longer just an incredibly talented singer and song writer but also a fashion icon.

Lily's new style is both feminine and lady like. With Chanel jackets (of course) and gorgeous empire line dresses . Her outfits really inspire me to create my own feminine and lady like outfits.

Lily Allen Style by Cheathcote

Party Time - Christmas Dresses

2009-11-11T07:10:00.000-08:00

It is only November, but it is not to early to start thinking about Christmas party dresses. For those of us who don't get the chance the rest of the year, Christmas is a great time to get really dressed up, whether it is for a night out with friends, the office Christmas party, a new years eve party or a family do. Christmas is a time when almost anything goes from sparkle and gloss to bright colours or all over black. Christmas is the perfect time to make that style statement that you have been considering all year but never really had the chance to make. Here are some of the key looks to consider for Christmas parties this year but you don't need to stick to these, why not try creating your own?

Sequin - Great look by dzejla - If you really want to get noticed then all over sequins is a great way, you will really catch the light and sparkle all night.

Little Black Dress - untitled by 4dnyy - this is probably the ultimate in versatile party outfits to suit almost any occasion. It can be dressed up in so many different ways with accessories.

Feathered or fringed - New years eve by Pahuljica20 these are both big trends for this year. A very stylish and luxurious party outfit.

Maxi untitled by irenairena a great option for a more formal Christmas Party. The floor sweeping maxi dress is incredibly elegant.

Floral Test by h24h24 If you love patterns then a bright floral party dress is a cute option. Team with killer heels and you are ready to party.

Draped Nebeski Plavo.... by zeky18 this is such a huge trend for this season, it had to feature on the party dress list. It is very flattering style and has a feeling of Greek Goddess about it.

The ruffled dress untitled by irenairena - ruffles are a great way to add Christmas glamour and opulence to a party dress. Add some rich jewel colours for a really show stopping look.

Sunbathing beauties

2009-11-08T03:37:00.000-08:00

While one half of the world starts dreaming of long winter coats, wooly scarves, and leather gloves, the other starts dreaming of maxi dresses, shear tops and, of course, bathing suits. The changing of the seasons is generally an exciting time for all fashion lovers as there is new inspirations, colours and styles, however for some of us heading into summer the change of seasons can be a worrying time.

For some the bathing suit season is one of fun, frivolity, and flirting. For others it is an intimidating and downright scary time, full of bathing suit dread. Oh, those mirrors! Oh, those white legs! I think everyone has felt that ping of disappointment at some time.

This experience really needn't be the case though as bathing suit styles have evolved over the years, and there are now many more options for all shapes and sizes. Thankfully designers have realised that the teeny weeny suits that grace the Giselle-type creatures roaming Brazilian beaches really do not suit us all, and variety is what the consumer is after. And, where were we all before fake tan - a god-send.

Of the new and popular styles for this summer, one-piece suits are seeing a resurgence in popularity. One-piece suits are fabulous for those of us who prefer more coverage, those who wish to actually swim in the sea, and for creating a more lithe figure. There is also some great, fashionable colours that can help create interest and guide the eye gently away from those areas you would really rather the eye not focus on. Another great way of hiding some problem areas is to try the high-waisted two-piece styles now available. Australian designer "Hotel Bondi Swim" has some good examples to check out.

In addition to one-piece suits, frilly 1950s styles are also in vogue and can do wonders for those of us less endowed in the chest. One word of warning though. Beware of looking too girlie if this is not the look you are after. Opt for a more structured style, such as nautical look, to continue to enhance cleavage but not look too poolside pretty.

Colour, colour, colour is another way to brighten up your day, and just feel good. Bathing suits are one example of fashion where you can use as much colour as you like, in as little space as possible. Bright fuchsia pinks, neon yellows, and lime greens have all featured in this seasons colour palette, as well as tangerine orange and shades of turquoise. If colour is not your style, look sophisticated and poised in blocks of black, white, blue and red, for impact and confidence.

And finally, there is the question of how many bathing suits do I need? Some say one is enough… others have 20 in their wardrobe. I say, grab as many as you can to suit all of your different moods - from playful, to wild, to quiet, to taking you to that place that you want to be. However many you have, wear your suit with confidence and a smile, and you will be sure to wow any beach or poolside crowd!

A Bit of an Animal

2009-11-06T03:02:00.000-08:00

Animal prints are back in fashion, if they ever went away. They can be a tricky look to master and it is essential to get just the right balance of vixen and sophisticated style maven. There are different ways to achieve this balance which include combining just one or two animal print accessories with black or neutral colours. Zebra prints in black and white also give a slightly quirky edge. You can also try opting for a slightly muted animal print for a more subtle effect or miniature print for a completely different look. Here are some of my favourite animal print outfits.

Leopard by Hayxly143

I love the simplicity of this one shouldered dress. It works so well with the shoes and bag for a very sophisticated outfit for an evening out.

Multi Strap Sandal by Laedanla

This animal print belt really finishes and holds together this outfit with black top and tan trousers. I also love those delicate multistrap sandals.

Boyfriend Jacket by Laedanla

This quirky outfit uses a boyfriend jacket to give this look a masculine edge and contrast the vamp like shoes and ring. A daring and different choice of colour combination.

Mellow Yellow

2009-10-29T02:03:00.000-07:00

picture from http://www.thefablife.com/

Rihanna looks amazing in this gorgeous yellow dress at the Barack Obama inauguration. This shade of yellow looks great with her dark hair and colouring. As a child, I hated this yellow, which my mother used to dress me in all of the time. But lately I have been seeing more and more of it and I am really growing to like it. It radiates the warmth of a summers day but also reminds me of crunchy leaves on an autumn day.

Yellow is definitely a colour to get noticed in but perhaps not always the easiest to wear. An outfit in such a bright colour takes a little planning and consideration. If done right it will look stunning. To make the most of mellow yellow, you will need to pick out just the right shade to compliment your colouring, you also need to think carefully about what colours you will combine it with for best effect or whether you are brave enough to go for all over yellow. Here are some great examples of outfits that use yellow. Why not try creating your own mellow yellow outfit?

Origami satin and crisp wool

I just woke up like this by Jboogie

Untitled by Junior

Miss Prim by J Boogie

Agyness Deyn Style - Burberry SS10 Show

2009-10-23T02:52:00.001-07:00

I love the outfit that Agyness Deyn wore to the Burberry SS10 show recently. The contrast of pouffy baby blue dress and grey biker jacker was perfectly accessoried with an understated crucifix necklace and black and white embellished bag.

For a really quirky touch, she has teamed with black over the knee socks and sensible flat lace up shoes. A refreshing change to those vertigo inducing high heel shoes. Finally, I am completely in love with her new dark hair in a cute choppy bob.

picture from Zimbio.com

I have created my own version of Agyness's look using Shmotter.com. Which celebrities style do you love? Why not try and create your own versions of their outfits?

Scary Spiders and Halloween Fashion

2009-10-23T01:58:00.000-07:00

pictures from www.style.com

At Paris Fashion week this October, there was an unexpected appearance of creepy crawlies or more specifically spiders. The collection by Giles Deacon had a humorous and fun element to it with spiders featuring in t shirts prints, lace overlays and repeating patterns on the fabric of a peach and pink shift dress

With Halloween just over a week away, I think spiders are a great and very stylish way to add a little bit of fun to an outfit without going for the full on Halloween fancy dress. Admittedly spiders are probably not to every ones taste and they may even send some people running in the opposite direction, but this makes them even more of a talking point. I love the way that these outfits have incorporated spiders for a bit of understated but slightly creepy Halloween glamour.

untitled by Micky

Spring Romance by Sejla

Cherry&vanilla by Sejla

How to wear thigh high boots

2009-10-16T05:06:00.000-07:00

Over the knee or thigh high boots that have moved from the domain of the dominatrix into main stream fashion and are just about everywhere for autumn and winter. This trend is at best tricky and some would say very daring. But you can pull it off in style by combining your thigh highs with just the right clothes.

You will need to team them with the right length of skirt or shorts, that allow the top of the boots to be seen. If you are concerned about modesty, a pair of leggings will ensure that you are adequately covered. Keep well away from all dominatrix references by avoiding the following:

Too much black
any black leather
too many studs
a revealing neckline

These outfits show perfectly to wear over the knee boots with style.

Over My Shoulder by Laedanla

Purpelicious by Chouayang21

Sequin Tunic by Laedanla

Style Inspiration

2009-10-15T03:36:00.000-07:00

For many people choosing what to wear in the morning is not a chore but an art form, where inspiration is turned into reality and a wearable outfit. Putting together the right outfit is also great fun, my favourite part is getting the inspiration. There are so many places that you can get ideas for what to wear including nature, historical dress, architecture and cultural themes. I also love to get ideas from what other people are wearing including celebrities and normal everyday people then combining these ideas to create my own unique style. Here are some of my favourite sources of inspiration when choosing what clothes to buy and wear:

Fashion blogs - there are so many to choose from, my favourites include Style Bubble (for quirky and DIY style) and the Sartorialist (for street style).

Celebrity and fashion magazines - I read them all including Vogue, Elle and Hello.

TV programmes - some TV programmes are worth watching just for the fashion, my absolute favourite is Sex and the City.

Social networking sites - It is always great to see and hear other peoples ideas and opinions on fashions and trends.

People on the street - I am always amazed by the outfits that I see when I am out and about, interesting combinations of clothes that I would never have thought of.

Why not try turning your style inspiration into outfits on Shmotter.com or get some inspiration from outfits created by others.

picture from www.eluniversal.com.mx

The jumpsuit - love it or hate it?

2009-10-09T04:12:00.000-07:00

The jumpsuit has been a major feature at many of the catwalk shows for the last few seasons. I can only liken the jumpsuit to Marmite, you either love it or you hate it, definitely an acquired taste. Even those that love the jumpsuit still feel the need to justify and defend their decision to step out of the house wearing an all in one. But Why

The jumpsuit has earned itself a reputation for being a difficult style to wear. Then there is the practicalities of going to the bathroom. But as every true fashionista knows, there are so many sacrifices that need to be made in the name of style.

The jumpsuit can be unflattering and shapeless if you pick the wrong style, by choose carefully and you have a stunning, stylish ready co ordinated outfit. Black or dark colours are by the far the most slimming and styles with a fitted waist are a must for all but the tallest and thinnest of people. When teamed with heels and some glam accessories, the jumpsuit makes the perfect alternative to the little black dress for an evening out.

I hate jumpsuits by Bridgetac112

I actually love this jumpsuit by Bridgetac112

Jumpsuit is not dead by laedanla

The Updated Leather Jacket

2009-10-07T05:50:00.000-07:00

Leather jackets have always been a stylish and fashionable item of clothing right back to when the Rockabilly's wore them in the fifties. Since then the biker jacket and various different versions of the leather jacket have become a wardrobe staple. The leather jacket has always been a sort of uniform that signifies rebellion and toughness. Think about Punk Rockers,Hells Angels and hotel room trashing rock stars.

The leather jacket is still in fashion today with the latest version having it's own more streamlined and fresh silhouette. Asymmetric zips,long sleeves, muted and neutral colours, cropped styles, textured leather and other interesting features and embellishments have brought the leather jacket right up to date.

The leather jacket is such a great way to get that effortless style. The best thing about a leather jacket is that the older it gets, the better it looks, a real investment piece.

Sexy with a tough edge by Bridgetac112 - this fresh take on the biker jacket by Dsquared is a great way to add a bit of rock n roll to a demure pencil skirt.

I love it by Inna - Rick Owens is unarguably the master of the updated leather jacket. I love the way this outfit combines different textures.

Get your own unique style

2009-10-07T05:10:00.001-07:00

Go unnoticed... forget it by Laednala - Use eye catching accessories to show off your personality

You might have noticed that lately that there is a bit of a trend for unique and individual looks instead of following the latest fashion. You could almost say that 'the latest trend is that there is no trend'. Women (and men too) are finally becoming confident in choosing styles of clothing that suit their figures and personality rather than just wearing the same as everyone else. This can be seen in the decline of phenomena such as the 'It' bag and fast fashions. Perhaps it is something to do with the recession and a desire for clothes that will last more than one season or perhaps something to do with the greater access to innovative and different clothes through the Internet. What ever the reasons, women are having great fun to creating their own style and outfits that plays to their strengths.

It is common place for fashionistas to put together outfits which combine both designer and high street clothes, perhaps with a bit of vintage and some handcrafted accessories thrown into the mix. A persons style says so much about them, it reflects there personality and tells you about who they are.

Fashion blogs like the Sartorialist and Style Bubble and websites like Shmotter are a great source of inspiration for individualists who want to stand out from the crowd rather than follow it

What is your style? Try out different looks and create outfits on Shmotter.

Slouchy boots - how do you wear yours?

2009-10-02T06:21:00.000-07:00

Slouchy boots are a versatile winter staple. They can be worn with skirts or skinny trousers tucked in. They are very flattering and can create the illusion of slimmer legs. These luxurious cream leather boots are perfect for creating so many different looks by combining with different styles and colours.

untitled by Schmotter
An elegant coat, hat and handbag make a really smart and stylish winter outfit when worn with these boots.

Boho Party Girl by Cheathcote

When teamed with rich colors, beading and embellishment, these slouchy boots finish off the boho look perfectly.

Modern pastels by Laedanla

Mix with creams, neutrals and metallics for a warm, understated and stylish looking outfit.