Milan Fashion Week: A Summary

The Italians are know for their passion, their romance and powerful expression, and at this season's Milan Fashion Week, designers poured their hearts into their collections, allowing us to feel as they felt. From celebrations of motherhood to sensuous displays of the female body, these collections encourage us to express ourselves and our emotions through our clothes. 

Here are my favourites: 

DSquared2

If you want to know how to make the garments of Canadian Indian Tribes fashion forward, than look to DSquared2. The influence shouts out at you through a hodgepodge of mismatched layers, textures and styles. This collection features the obvious components of tribal garb, from draped ponchos and peasant dresses to tribal patterns and trims, tassels and fringing galore. However throw in some sparkling jewelled accessories and heavily embellished sandals and you've got yourself a collection that people can't take their eyes off. 

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferragamo demonstrated a sleek exploration of geometry in their latest collection. Lines and rectangles in a variety of forms featured a range of fabrics from leather to tweed. The look was very lustrous and tactile, with sheer chiffon inserts and fluid silk dresses. contrasting with wooly capes and ponchos. 

Trussardi

The androgyny of this collection was edgy and dark. With short, slicked back hair reminiscent of the 90s, the sleek silhouettes of the models were constructed out of minimalistic leather in neutral , earthy tones of grey, beige, teal and brown. Oversized coats billowed over feminine dresses and camisoles whilst boned tops and corsetry maintained an element of rigidity and form. 

Dolce & Gabbana

In a collection titled Viva la Mama, Dolce & Gabbanna celebrated mothers of the world with a unique runway show that not only featured stunning garments, but baby bumps and toddlers too. I can imagine it must have been quite hard to focus on the collection with so much cuteness and emotion going on, but Dolce & Gabbana made sure their pieces not only stood out, but reflected the concept of the show. The rose is a signature motif for the designer duo, and was out in full bloom for this collection. 40s style skirts and white shift dresses were embellished with embroidery, sequins. lace and innocent Crayola scribbles, whilst others featured prints of the Madonna and child. With a predominantly female audience, I don't think there was a dry eye in the house. 

Emilio Pucci

There's a definite love for velvet going on this season. Velvet blazers, capes and hot pants featured in the Emilio Pucci collection, and contributed to the 50s vibe. The monochrome psychedelic prints might have had a part to play too. Oh and the thigh high boots. AND the flared trousers. So basically the collection oozed 50s glamour. 

Antonio Marras

Collections like this demonstrate why fabrics are the dominant feature. The use of upholstery fabrics and tapestry prints set this collection in a realm of formal bohemia. The symmetrical embroidery is romantic yet meticulous, whilst the hues of pale pinks, dusty blues, crimsons, and blacks keep it feminine. 

Roberto Cavalli

Animal prints are a given when it comes to Roberto Cavalli. In this collection however they blend in with the other prints. They are not the main feature. It is in fact the textures and silhouettes that do the talking here. Knitted and silk dresses adorned with ruffles, frills and ribbons make for tangible garments that billow and move as if alive, contrasting with the rigidity of military parkas, cargo skirts and corduroy. 

Ermanno Scervino

Houndstooth rules this collection. You'd think it'd be boring seeing garment after garment of the same pattern, but the variety of creative ways in which it is displayed keeps you guessing. There was no overarching style that tied this collection together. It is more an exploration of fabrics, shapes and patterns . 

Versace

We're all aware now that the 60s and 70s are going to be huge for next A/W, but just in case you hadn't got that already, Versace made sure it was crystal clear. Red thigh high boots with mini dresses, bell bottoms and capes are as retro as it gets. The Greco patterns are bold and psychedelic and brilliantly cut into the loud primary colour palette. 

Emporio Armani 

Emporio Armani went sat in the middle of feminine and androgynous with a relaxed tomboyish collection. Drop waist and swing dresses on top of trousers with masculine footwear is a look I can see Alexa Chung and Kristen Steward pulling off brilliantly.  The jewel tones of amethyst and ruby are feminine enough to balance the collection out. 

Philosophy

In stark contrast to the above collection is Philosophy's ultra girly and elegant mix of Victorian lace and sheer ruffles. The pastels and creams gush innocence whilst the dungarees and high necks bring a vintage feel. 

Dondup

An effortlessly cool collection consisting of androgynous styles mixed with grunge femininity. 

Prada

There was a youthfulness to Prada's collection that reminded me of school. The 60s flavour was sweet, with salmon pinks, pea greens, mustard and teal. These jarring colours were playful and prim but crisp as a result of sharp lines. Empire line dresses were ladylike and reminiscent of the 'doesn't she look grown-up' days. 

Just Cavalli

Another take on the 70s trend with fluffy skirts and fuzzy coats. Spirited florals and textural maxis contribute to a vintage look that is free-flowing and frivolous. 

Philipp Plein

A monochrome collection with a solitary flash of orange that mixes the sports luxe trend with evening-wear pieces. 

Black snakeskin and leather were the central fabrics, with panelled bras, bomber jackets and understated mini and maxi dresses in both matte and shimmering versions of the textile. 

Francesco Scognamiglio

Tank dresses and negligees in powdery lilacs, pinks and blacks left little to the imagination with lace and sheer organza exposing the female form. Calling this collection sexy is an understatement, but it's been executed with class and sophistication.   

Alberta Ferretti

Viewing this collection is like being transported through time, with a glimpse at some of the most iconic eras in fashion. A variety of historic styles have contributed to pieces that would not look out of place on a Brothers Grimm princess. I say this because despite not being able to pinpoint a specific period of time as the influence behind this collection, there's definitely a Germanic feel. The folksy ruffles and frills and royal colour palette contribute to the opulence whilst the lavish embroidery and embellishment demonstrate incredible craftsmanship synonymous with historical fashion. 

Luisa Beccaria

This fashion season there have been a lot of vintage looks, but none as sultry and sensuous as this one. There's something about the charcoal palette and light, delicate, translucent dresses that's alluring. You'd also expect the beret's to throw the look off completely, but they actually cement it. 

Stella Jean

Inspired by the Indian Himalayas, this collection is bold, bright, and full of print. Textural and sturdy overcoats and puffed up and out skirts create voluminous silhouettes which contrast with the blanket and pleated maxi skirts which billowed down the runway. 

Vivetta

A groovy selection of pieces reminiscent of the early 70s, but channeling a Nordic vibe with fresh, airy hues of white and blue and floral prints like those found on traditional Scandinavian dresses. The attention to detail can go unnoticed if you're not looking, but everything from the floral prints on the shoes to the quirky pop-art style collars builds a look that is youthful and charming. 

All images are from Vogue.co.uk

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An Important Two Weeks Ahead

So today is a bit of a big day for me. 

For the next two weeks, I will be doing some work experience at Northern & Shell, which is the publication house for the New, Star and OK! magazines. I'll be working in the fashion departments and learning lots about working in such an environment. 

This is a pretty big deal for me. Since volunteering as editor-in-chief for my 6th form magazine, I've known this is what I want to do, and despite my lack of a formal fashion / journalism education, I've spent a good 5 years getting stuck in and contributing to as many publications / websites / blogs  as possible. 

That, in fact, was the original purpose of this blog; to get into the habit of coming up with interesting and well written content whilst targeting a specific audience. To be honest, in just a matter of weeks this blog became so much more than that and it is now my virtual, online baby that takes up every bit of mind space that I have. 

I really don't know what to expect from the next two weeks, but whatever happens, I know I'll come away having learnt some valuable things and met some awesome people,. 

This post isn't for me to blab gormlessly about the whole thing, but to let you guys know that it may be a little bit quiet on here for a while. I have no idea how busy I'm going to be and what my hours are so content may be a little bit scarce for the next two weeks. 

I do have a post or two ready for the next few days, and I am hoping, if I have time, to update you guys on how the work experience process is going in the hopes of helping anyone out there who is looking to do the same kind of thing. If that's the case watch this space because even if I don't post about it in the next two weeks, I definitely will once it's all over. 

Wish me luck guys!

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My Hair Care Routine

Dyeing your hair is a commitment, and requires your constant attention. Since going purple, my hair has taken over my life, but I get a lot of people complimenting me on how healthy it looks, so I thought I'd put together a post all about the products I use and steps I take to keep my in good condition. 

I will say now that the commitment definitely applies more so to those who bleach their hair before dyeing. In fact, in all honesty, if you're not prepared to invest in conditioners and masks and frequent trims to keep your hair healthy, don't do it. Not only will your hair dry out and break, but the colour will look awful as a result. The more effort you put into your hair's health, the more you get out of it. 

Catwalk by TIGI - Headshot

You're probably reading this now and thinking 'There's no way I can afford that!' But before you panic and feel that expensive hair products are your only hair saviors, this product is here to actually inform you of the amazing deals TK Maxx do on hair products. I bought this salon sized bottle from there for just £12.99. When you take into consideration the fact that a small bottle of Aussie conditioner is £5, this is a steal. TK Maxx actually do a variety of salon products, from TIGI and Sebastian to Fudge and Wella, all at majorly reduced prices. Obviously the stock in each store is going to be different, but they do have a good selection online. It's definitely worth putting your money towards products like these. We all come out of a hair salon wishing we could make our hair feel that good at home. It's all down to the products they use, so now you can. I bought this particular bottle because of its intense conditioning qualities. The more intense the better I say! 

Schwarzkopf got2b Guardian Angel Heat Protection Spray

I've been using this product for a good few years now. I don't blow dry, straighten or curl my hair that often, but when I do I know that it's imperative that I use this. Not only does it smell amazing, but my hair doesn't feel brittle or dry after. You wouldn't get something out of the oven without oven gloves, so why apply heat directly to your hair? This is applicable to everyone with hair really, but for us with dyed hair, applying heat actually opens up the hair shaft, so colour can escape. Another one I'd recommend is the Tresemme Heat Protect Mist, as it has colour fade protection. 

Tresemme Instant Refresh Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo should be your best friend if you've dyed your hair, particularly if you've gone quite a bright colour. These colours fade so quickly, that sometimes the best way to make the colour last that little bit longer is to postpone washing it. I'm not suggesting you go two weeks without washing your hair, but if you wash your hair every other day, whether it's due to grease build up or just habit, you could maybe push it to once every three days and use dry shampoo in between. Now I know Batiste is probably the most popular, but I just don't get on with it. I find it quite claggy and drying and a bit sticky. Tresemme's is light on the hair and it doesn't feel like I've got anything in my hair after using it. I also find that this one lasts me so much longer than Batiste. 

 L'oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil: Coloured Hair

I wouldn't say this product is a must, but it's definitely handy to have around. There are days when my hair just isn't happy - maybe I've styled it too much or it's been a pretty cold and windy day and it's just been battered around a bit. That's when I use this gem. £10.99 seemed a lot at first, but I know Argan and Macadamia oils are a big thing at the moment and they're something like £12 for a bottle 1/5 of the size of this one. You only really need one pump and a quick ruffle through your hair, paying attention to the ends and you've got a quick moisturising fix. 

Other Steps

Another trick of mine is adding an equal amount of conditioner to the dye every time I dye my hair. Vegetable dyes like Directions are pretty concentrated anyway, so there's no harm in diluting it a bit with some intense conditioner. 

I also add a bit of dye to my conditioner, just so it's getting a top up every time I do wash it, and for a treat - if it needs it - a bit of the L'oreal oil too. 

I hope you've found this post useful, and it would be awesome to hear about any tricks you guys might have for keeping your hair in tip-top condition. 

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London Fashion Week: A Summary

Just like last week, I'm doing a rundown of my favourite collections from the most recent fashion week, and this time I'm drooling over what London had to offer. London fashion week is always my favourite because there are so many collections inspired by British culture and traditions, but also it's so exciting to try and predict what we're all going to be wearing this time next year. An embracing of the gothic continues on from NYFW, but this time touching on either the romantic or the rebellious. Rules are broken in the realm of the silhouette, and texture and layering are woken from their boring slumber and given a fresh new look. 

Pam Hogg

Like something out of a kinky Brothers Grimm fairytale, the models strutted the runway in mesh bodysuits, capes and dresses made for femme fatales with dark souls. Silhouettes were exaggerated and switched from feminine to androgynous in a heartbeat. 

Bora Aksu

I was mesmerized by the geometric patterns created by the intricate lace in this collection. There's definitely an underlying touch of goth going on here, but the muted lilac palette brings a romantic softness. There's fluidity in the fabrics, but the lace paneling and constructed silhouettes produce a female warrior. 

Paul Costelloe

It's so refreshing to see some new shapes emerging in collections like this. What would have been a rather unremarkable collection is turned into something spectacular with the use of ruffed necks, dropped-bell sleeves, tiered hemlines and oversized silhouettes. The two tone colour palette featuring greens, mustard and maroons only works to make the garments even more alluring. 

Fyodor Golan

Any collection featuring My Little Pony motifs has got my attention. Yes there's a kitsch, Cutester vibe to these garments, but there's also genius architectural sculpting that constructs an ultra-modern form. Mix these two factors with some contrasting textures, a candy palette and kaleidoscope prints and you've got something quite special. 

Sass & Bide

I love a collection that flits from one extreme to the other. All of these garments ooze a grungy sexiness, but it's the proportions that are key. Lengths dart from maxi to mini whilst over-sized and super skinny have an on-stage battle. 

PPQ

Just one look at this collection and you're instantly aware of a reference to something classic. The New Romantic touches are prominent with the ruffled collars, structured shirts and monochrome palette but the sleek lines and minimalist simplicity brings it forward 25 years.  

Ashley Isham

Any dramatic collection has my attention, no matter how eccentric, however it is nice to see one that's got the right balance of drama and practicality. The drama is there with the veiled headpieces and Disney villain capes, but it's the   jewel tones, the tailored coats and exaggerated blanket stitching that I take away from this collection with a longing to see them commonplace next winter. 

Sibling

If you're aware of Moschino's SS15 Barbie collection, I wouldn't blame you for thinking this was some sort of punked up parody. I did. In fact I prefer it. The pink and black palette is a classic punk combo, but the latex, mohair, beading and sequins not only separate the collection from it's punky cliches, but work to create a fierce rebellion of its own.

Julien Macdonald

These modestly sexy and edgy pieces ooze a Gothic glamour. Texturally rich garments that feature silks, lace, PVC and sheer / fishnet panels give a collection with a predominantly black palette body and substance, whilst the rare bursts of jewel tones are exhilarating. 

Simone Rocha

If you're watching Wolf Hall at the moment, you'll get this collection and all its Tudor references. All the components for a classic Tudor costume are there, from tapestry and tweed textures and opulent hues to bodices, frills and ruffles. However the playful way in which Simone Rocha has pieced them together, with raw edges, and shapely figures merges two distant eras together. 

Gareth Pugh

Gareth Pugh collections make me squeal like an excited little goth girl. Words like gothic, weird, eccentric and dark just do not do his works of art justice. It just makes me so happy that designers like Pugh are continuing what Alexander McQueen started, with collections that shock, inspire debate and make people question fashion and it's 'rules'. This collection is no different. Nightmarish and threatening, this all black ensemble is strong and powerful. Of course texture is the only way to make a colour palette like this mean something, and Pugh goes all out. It's one of those collections that I can't even begin to describe, because I feel my words don't do it justice. 

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi

Finally some 70s references. 70s was huge at NYFW. In fact it was the center trend I feel. But in London, the revival has been more muted. This dark, romantic take has a folksy edge. The bodices, high necks and fluted cuffs are reminiscent of the vintage Victoriana look that's been hovering around, whilst the tiered skirts and ruffles in asymmetric forms and primary shades exudes freedom and naturalness. 

Issa

Another monochrome palette showcasing how texture can be utilised to it's fullest potential. Clashing prints are teamed with fringing and shaggy outerwear to create a sexy, sultry and understated collection .

Sophia Webster

Bonkers. Pure bonkers. But why the hell not? If you're showcasing your latest shoe collection, why not go all out with everything else?  In a circus-style foire, Webster's shoes and accessories featured feathers, leopard print, glitter and tartan, whilst up top was an unconventional display of all things spherical. 

Matthew Williamson

Bohemian is given a fresh awakening with the help of Matthew Williamson. Of course you have the definitive components such as embroidery, beads and sequins, but it's the colour palette that screams at you. Williamson does away with earthly hues and replaces them with vivid and intense teals, pinks and crimsons. The silhouettes are classically Seventies, with high necks and silky, slim lines contrasting with voluminous jackets. 

Vivienne Westwood Red Label

You can always rely on Vivienne Westwood to deliver. She's a household name with a signature style that will never grow old. Here we see punky notes of animal print, sequins, lace, and tartan in a homage to British punk culture, however the collection is more refined and delicate than the expected middle-finger style you'd anticipate. 

Antonio Berardi

The unification of formal and casual in this collection is hard to get your head round, but it works. Sparkles, frills, and peplums appear on informal everyday garments e.g parkas. Yet the pieces are sculpted to create feminine and elegant silhouettes and feature embellishment and graphic prints that are a feast for the eyes. 

Roksanda

This collection is about attention to detail. The raw hemlines and carefully woven knits compliment the bold tones of royal blue, burnt orange and raspberry whilst the chunky furs are simply sumptuous. 

Burberry Prorsum

Burberry Prorsum went for delicate vintage in this collection. The patterned patchwork and folk dresses and of course suede in deep, earthy tones of teal, maroon and olive create pieces suitable for any Stevie Nicks wannabe. 

Giles

Other collections have touched on the Gothic Victoriana look, but Giles grabbed the style with vigor and ran with it.  Strict silhouettes and crisp folds and pleats with ruffled collars create a textural haven and only emphasise the intricacy of the graphic prints featured upon them. 

Ashley Williams

Taking the rebel theme to new heights, Ashley Williams' collection looks like the Bratz dolls met with the cast of Clueless and shared each others wardrobes. The pink sheepskin coat stole the show, with an over sized bucket hat to match. It would be a rather girly affair if it wasn't for the black lipstick and statement black heels. Slogans and metal band t-shirt graphics also featured heavily in the collection with dashes of femininity such as puffy blouses and sheer lace mini skirts thrown in. 

Ashish

To finish off the post is another take on the rebellion trend.  Pretty Woman-style red boots and sequin embroidered 'SEX' slogans work to flaunt sexuality in an unapologetic manner. Combined with camo, tie-dye and leopard print, and you've got one big shout out to the style and sexuality of the 90s. 

All images are from Vogue.co.uk

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The Seasons Changed - OOTD

Yay for warmer weather! 

I know it's not Summer temperatures yet, but I'm at that stage where I feel I can swap my fur coats for something a bit lighter. 

Beanie Hat - Primark
Eclipse Necklace - Rogue and the Wolf
Ribbed High Neck Top - New Look
Duster Coat - Primark
Check Shorts - Boohoo.com
Thigh High Socks - Asos
Boots - Asos
Rucksack - New Look

I recently purchased these plaid shorts in the sale from Boohoo.com and had been really looking forward to styling them. 

I see this OOTD as a transition outfit from Winter to Spring; I've paired the shorts with sheer tights and knee high socks over the top, something I've actually started doing quite a lot recently. I just love the school girl vibes that it brings, without it being too risque.

Both the grey top and duster coat have been staple buys for me. I realised recently that I'm extremely low on basics, especially for this kind of weather, so I went exploring in New Look, which is jam packed with reasonable yet good quality basics right now. Tops like this go with so much and are a great way of building up a capsule wardrobe (I'll get there one day). 

Duster coats are EVERYWHERE at the moment. I fell into the trap of thinking that because I'm short and curvy, wearing something so long and shapeless would make me look frumpy, but I was so wrong. Outerwear like this has a slimming and elongating effect, so don't shy away from cuts like this. It's the perfect outerwear addition for weather like this and this Primark one was an absolute steal at just £17. I just love the contrast in colour and texture with my grey New Look top. 

An outfit like this doesn't need too many accessories, but the Rogue and the Wolf necklace, and New Look rucksack bring some touches of added colour and detail. Also, I like the subtle hint that I may have some mad witch skills, or at least connections in witchy places.

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