tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42672373602606728922024-03-12T18:30:21.796-07:00Lanvin My ManAmy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.comBlogger79125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-43326562892983082582013-10-06T06:55:00.002-07:002013-10-06T06:55:16.481-07:00Time Passes and Other Things<div class="MsoNormal">
In two days time I’ll
have been here for four weeks. Four weeks in which time has passed as fast as a
bullet and as slow as eternity. Days have been fragmented, elongated and cut
short; compartmentalized into To Do lists, dragging lectures, leisurely coffees
and long, dripping hours of nothing at all. Familiarity breeds contempt; as I
slowly get used to the laissez-faire timetabling, the all-nighters and the
long, empty afternoons, inertia begins to creep. </div>
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What to do with
these long spaces of blank time? I could read books; study my French grammar
books with a misplaced sense of purpose; plan future adventures with
like-minded travellers; I could write. </div>
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The year abroad is
pipped by a cacophony of eager professors, pompous media types and returning
Erasmus students, their faces glowing with the warming effect of hindsight, as
recurring variations of ‘the best year of your life.’ I admit, I am young; the
years behind me are muddled together in a blur of once-known places and faces
and routines. They all seem much the same to me. No year seems better than
another; no era particularly worth noting.</div>
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But then I stop to think. Of all the years
that have come before, the past three or four have surely been the best. Maybe in
all those years of agonizing teenage boredom, of waiting for life to start,
something passed me by; maybe life has already started and has started sweeping
me along in a ceaseless flood. The past three years have been the best of my
life and this year, 2013, has been the best of the lot. </div>
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This leads me
back to my contemplation of time and its ever-changing state. Here, in <st1:country-region w:st="on">Belgium</st1:country-region>, I seem
to have time in excess; there is time to gorge on, spare hours to fill as I
will. The possibilities, like time itself, is endless. Maybe some element of
truth sounds behind the hopeful, implausible words of those eager professors and
shiny-faced fellow students: this could be the best year of my life, but
probably not in the way that they imply. I could continue down the road on
which I have already placed a shaky first foot and finally, fully comprehend
that dreams are there to be achieved. Maybe I need to stop dreaming and waiting
for life to start, and realise that it already has. </div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-14524641981627220812013-10-03T12:56:00.001-07:002013-10-03T12:58:15.434-07:00Bumps in the Road<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I wrote this following blog post in a two hour lecture last week, during which I questioned many, many things. What I was doing a million miles from home in an obscure Belgian city; why the hell had I ever chosen to do French as one half of my degree; whether I'd ever get out of the two hour hell into which I'd just willingly walked myself and sat down. However, I'm happy to report that a week later things have definitely improved! I've weeded out the impossible-to-understand subjects and doddery, rambling professors and am on my way to an organised timetable and an organised life. Stay posted for more!</i></div>
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So here I sit, in yet another class I don’t understand,
listening to a philosophy professor ramble on about some philosopher who may or
may not have been a Nazi and who may or may not have agreed with Sartre’s
existentialist theories. I don’t know, because yet again I can’t understand.
With no helpful aid in PowerPoint form, or a sympathetic, slow talking and
plain speaking professor, I am left adrift in a sea of Gallic pronunciation and
obscure European philosophers. At least this time I can somewhat understand the
monologue manifesting itself in front of me; this time, it is the subject
matter that has me at a loss. Apparently, I am in a lecture on the ‘Philosophy
of Art’- ah, he just mentioned Vincent Van Gogh. At least now I’m 75% sure I’ve
wandered into the correct lecture theatre. But that is the only hint that this
is anything other than a two hour seminar on some flamboyant Nazi-loving
(maybe), Sartre- hating (again, maybe) philosopher with an incomprehensible
German name which, when first written on the board, I took to be the professor’s.
Off to a flying start.</div>
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What exactly am I doing here? This is one of those moments, occurring
with a growing regularity over the past two weeks, when it dawns on me like a
slow breaking winter morning that I am not quite in my comfort zone anymore. This
is no slumbering English lecture hall, with a reading list as long as my arm
and half-asleep comrades beside me to share my half-guilt that I never got around
to reading Paradise Lost. We’re not in <st1:state w:st="on">Kansas</st1:state>
anymore, Toto.</div>
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University here is mystery wrapped in an enigma and that’s
before you start to tackle the language barrier or even get to your classes. Rooms
are numbered on one list and named on another. There is no corresponding,
explanatory list. No one will tell you, or seems to know, whether classes start
this week, next week or not until half way through October. Lectures are taught
‘ex-cathedra’, a term I’ve only just come to learn the meaning of: sit here and
listen to the man at the front of the room’s inexorable, rambling monologue. Take
notes, if possible. Repeat. A real life nightmare for any querulous Erasmus
student not yet fully confident in their powers of comprehension. Or even if
they’re in the right room. Things must, surely, only get better…Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-78693545875244230502013-09-17T08:03:00.000-07:002013-09-17T08:11:04.272-07:00Life à la Française<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As the rain hammers down on the misty Velux windows of my
new loft <i>appartement,</i> I reflect on
the vast changes that have been wrought on my life since I last updated my
blog. The past four months have past by in a blur of sun-baked <st1:city w:st="on">London</st1:city> streets, whirring office air-con and
the dappled, blustery loveliness of a Cornish summer by the sea. And now this:
the tiny, rainy cobbled streets and cafes and restaurants of <st1:city w:st="on">Liege</st1:city>, the somewhat unknown Belgian city that
is to be my home for the next nine months.<br />
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This summer has seen me run at speed between internships,
exam results and my year abroad, with snatched moments of summer bliss amid my
hectic schedule. If you’ve been following my Twitter feed, you will know that
my summer months have been marked out by three stark events: two dream internships
and a looming, potentially life-changing move away from the family and friends
that are so dear to me. Somewhat paradoxically, although I had two what-dreams-are-made-of internships as a fashion writer at both The Times and ELLE magazine, chances to update this blog and embark on personal projects have been few and far between; apart from a ridiculously exciting interview for
<a href="http://www.sid-magazine.com/" target="_blank">SID Magazine</a> that will be coming out in the Autumn, this keyboard has never
been so inactive.</div>
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It seems obvious, but never before had I thought that change
could be so inspiring. I have blog posts and article ideas coming out of my
ears! There’s so much to say and describe about my electric summer, before it
gets lost amidst the freezing boulevards and sudden showers of this autumnal
city. And also, I have so much to say about <st1:city w:st="on">Liege</st1:city>,
about <st1:country-region w:st="on">Belgium</st1:country-region>,
and my hopes, fears and dreams for this year. There will be travelling, no
doubt, and new places and faces and languages to explore. A year spent
straddling the Channel, with feet firmly placed on both English and European
soil, will have all sorts of adventures to look forward to, at home and abroad.
<i>À la prochaine</i>! </div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-80648067770932033742013-06-06T07:45:00.003-07:002013-06-06T07:46:16.422-07:00Best Dressed at the Cannes Film Festival 2013Last week I wrote a piece for my university's weekly newspaper on top five best dressed at the Cannes Film Festival. I enjoyed writing the piece, but in hindsight I recognize that I was writing more for the paper's target audience of fellow students than of my own, slightly left-of-field, taste. You can read the original article <a href="http://www.redbrick.me/2013/06/best-dressed-at-cannes-2013/" target="_blank">here</a>, but below I have compiled my very own top five from Cannes.<br />
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<a href="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/k_n/Marion-Cotillard-Vogue-21May13-Rex_b_426x639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/k_n/Marion-Cotillard-Vogue-21May13-Rex_b_426x639.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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French ingénue Marion Cotillard was all things modern in her pre- Spring/ Summer 2014 Dior dress at the <i>Blood Ties</i> premiere. Modern not only because the collection had debuted only four days previously, but also because the <i>Rust & Bone</i> actress wore Chopard jewels designed alongside Livia Firth's Green Carpet Challenge project, the eco-friendly enterprise that have been gaining ground and print columns in the last year or so. All highly commendable, but what really interests me is the Memphis- style colour blocking that complements and extends the elegant, fluid lines of her Dior dress. The 60's beehive looks great too, although it could possibly be given a modern update by allowing it a bit of movement and freedom from its structural confines; a few wisps of hair around the face would do it. Plus, Marion's make up is arguably rather heavy for her delicate Gallic features; a lighter hand with the bronzer and eyeshadow would have been ideal. 8.5/ 10</div>
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When I grow up, I want to be as awesome as Kristen Scott Thomas. As one of my favourite actresses, francophile Kristen Scott Thomas never disappoints when it comes to film roles, talent or just plain exquisite coolness. Thirty-odd years in the French and English film industries has given her a presence that rises above the starlets who flock to Cannes, and here she trails fledgling pretenders to her throne in her glittering, sequinned wake. 9/10 </div>
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Marion Cotillard's second mention in this piece is indicative of two things. Firstly, that I have a huge girl-crush Marion Cotillard and all her frenchy-ness. Secondly, that these walking adverts for the Dior pre-Spring/ Summer '14 collection indicate that Raf Simons is well and truly hitting his stride as the house's frontman and successor to John Galliano. The first couple of seasons of his time at the helm were quietly respectable, wearable and interesting- somewhat loose complements to a brilliant designer such as Simons is. However, the pre- collection that debuted during Cannes depicts a star and a talent that is on the rise, as the designer finds his feet and his confidence at his new post. 9/10 </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">There's just something about a spangled gold trouser and jumper combo. However, that 'something', or 'je ne sais quoi' as they would say in Cannes, obviously has many determiners. The first is that this is a gold sparkly jumpsuit made by the</span> Antwerp- educated French/ Colombian designer Haider Ackermann, and not something you'd pick up on a whim in Primark. The second is that it is worn by the icily cool Tilda Swinton, who with her bleached quiff and red lips is a definite contender for Kristen Scott Thomas' throne of coolness. Maybe they could share it. Simplicity is the key to this statement outfit: Tilda does not weigh herself down with a frou-frou clutch or an excesse of make up. Moreover, somehow she does not let the gold outfit outshine her- she owns it completely, with a smile that says that she does not take it, or herself, or the entire Cannes circus, too seriously. 10/ 10</div>
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I realise that I have already claimed that when I grow up I want to be Kristen Scott Thomas. Well, I also want to be Tilda Swinton and Laeticia Casta in a weird amalgamation of squished up film stars and supermodels. Anyway. Talking about weird amalgamations, here Laeticia puts an outfit together so wrong that it's also completely right. A Dior dress that is cut a little too high for crotch comfort, and plastered with Barbie- pink flowers? Check. Golden wings as a totally unnecessary yet amazing cover under the Cannes sun? Check. What appears to be slightly dodgy sparkly gold platforms which match those wings? Check and check. The only thing troubling about this so-wrong-it's-right get up is Laeticia's slightly aging, brown make-up; I did a double take for all the wrong reasons when I looked up her age. This outfit, a breath of fresh couture air amidst the familiar parade of yawn-worthy gowns, needs a softer, rosier palette, which would let the supermodel's youth and undoubted beauty shine through. 7.5/ 10</div>
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All photos: <a href="http://vogue.co.uk/">vogue.co.uk</a><br />
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-49760310229492321902013-03-03T11:23:00.003-08:002013-03-06T03:48:53.924-08:00Jennifer Lawrence: Dior's Perfect Woman?<br />
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You just can’t escape Jennifer Lawrence at the moment. Following in the footsteps of model of the moment Cara Delavigne, who is simply, J-Law is most definitely the actress du jour. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Following on from her Cinderella-esque tumble at the Oscars, and her endearingly <i>normal, </i>self-deprecating persona in front of the world’s press, the first shots of the actress for her latest role as the face of Miss Dior handbags, the chic little sister of the Lady Dior bag, have firmly established J-Law as fashion and film's current First Lady. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ushering in a new era of a Raf Simons-headed Dior, the adverts are a departure from thedays when John Galliano headed the French fashion house. Sleek, simplified and structural,the recently released photos mirror Simons take on the extensive Dior archives:paring back the excessiveness of Galliano to reveal the true essence of Dior.The architectural, silken lines of the black blazer that Jennifer Lawrence has been photographed in is reminiscent of Dior’s decisive ‘New Look’, whilst alsoechoing the minimalism of designers such as Jil Sander, and even Yves Saint Laurent’s eponymous ‘Le Smoking’ tuxedo. The net veil strongly speaks of Simons' current collaboration of the old and the new, the classic and the innovational,with the 50’s shape juxtaposing the more recent avant-garde headwear ofdesigners such Gareth Pugh and Martin Margiela. <o:p></o:p><br />
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JenniferLawrence could be described as the ideal figurehead of Dior under Raf Simons. The ultimate modern woman, she has the curves of a 50’s icon and a character so assured and self-confident that she, apparently, directed one of her entourage to fetch a McDonalds for her during the Oscars. Who better to spearhead the inimitable brand’s new ‘New Look’?</div>
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Images from: <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/" target="_blank">Vogue</a> and <a href="http://www.usmagazine.com/uploads/assets/articles/60536-jennifer-lawrence-explains-her-fall-at-the-oscars-look-at-my-dress/1361799195_jennifer-lawrence-fall-467.jpg" target="_blank">US Magazine </a></div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-73321619294703828652013-02-27T06:34:00.003-08:002013-02-27T06:53:11.929-08:00Chanel, Scotland and Tilda Swinton: A Story of Craftsmanship<br />
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Tilda Swinton has today been named the face of Chanel’s Metiers d’Art Paris-Edinburgh collection, which debuted spectacularly in the misty ruins of a Scottish castle last December. </div>
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Set in the secluded Linlithgow Palace, with a guest list so exclusive that many bloggers and minor editors were left out in the cold, the collection was a celebration of Scottish heritage, craftsmanship and the longstanding intimate relationship between Scotland and Chanel. Described as a ‘truly exceptional show’ by British Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman, the collection was a classic Karl interpretation of traditional Scottish dress: well-structured and precisely edited, the collection highlighted both the talent of the head designer, and the exceptional skill of the legion of craftsmen which support him.</div>
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In this collection, fabric was not in short supply: tweed was layered, draped and folded against the Scottish chill, showcased in a variety of bright plaids and chunky Fair Isle knits. The classic Chanel bouclé jacket was lined, unusually (Chanel originally celebrated unlined garments to give an ease of movement) with traditional Scottish plaid. The Chanel chains were transformed from bag handles to embellish hats and sporrans, and the strings of pearl semiotic of the house were developed into the chunky collars and drop earrings reminiscent of the jewellery that would have, once upon a time, been worn in Linlithgow Palace. Nods to Mary Queen of Scots can be found in the sumptuous shirts, ruffs, Tudor-style jackets and layered bell skirts all embellished with heavy lines of pearls and gemstones. </div>
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So why the sudden focus on tweed, plaid, leather and everything else that Scotland has got to offer through its long manufacturing history? The Metiers d’Art (pre-A/W ’13, in other words) was designed as an annual celebration of the craftsmen, ateliers and specialists who are both the driving force of Chanel and provide the many, many hours that go into crafting both the Prêt-a-Porter and Couture collections.</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 18px;"> The collaboration between Chanel and Swinton is perhaps unsurprising choice; Tilda has for years been the face of Scottish knitwear label Pringle and has been described as ‘a modern woman, a timeless icon of elegance’ by Chanel creative director Karl Lagerfeld.In my simple opinion, her ethereal, unusual beauty conjures up the mysticism of Scotland. </span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"> Chanel as a label and as a person has had a long standing history with Scottish tweed. Chanel, who used to visit Scotland regularly in the 1920s to stay in the Duke of Westminster’s rugged pile, sourced her original bouclé tweeds from Scotland, introducing it as one of the house’s defining fabrics in 1927. In 2012 the fashion house acquired the specialist factory Barrie Knitwear, which has made luxury tweeds for them for the past 25 years. </span><br />
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Images and quotes from: <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/">www.vogue.co.uk</a></div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-42647251169074698252013-02-26T03:20:00.001-08:002013-02-27T06:37:50.910-08:00London In A Nutshell: Louise Gray Autumn/ Winter 2013<br />
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> A cacophony of abstracted prints, with just
a hint of the uptight secretary; Louise Gray’s Autumn/ Winter 2013 collection ‘Hey
Crazy’ was East meets West: London in a decorative nutshell. Drawn together by
the repeating motif ‘Tube Map,’ the collection was a celebration of print,
vibrant colour and a certain idiosyncratic ‘joie de vivre’ that only comes from
living in London. Prim and proper librarian met East End cool with a large dash
of humour, irreverence and impeccable tailoring; the very best of London, you
could say.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> East was found in the dynamic, vaguely
African-esque prints, mohair jumpers and eclectic recycled accessories and
embellishments, which were strongly reminiscent of the 80s punk designers
Vivienne Westwood and Pam Hogg, who Louise Gray undoubtedly owes a lot to. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> West in the buttoned up blouses,
princess coats and strong tailoring that underpins the collection; jacquard
fabrics pinned and cut just so to create mini peplums and decisive trouser and
skirt suits. “I’ve found a confidence in tailoring, and it’s exactly what I
want to wear right now,” said Gray in her show notes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> However, despite this newfound
confidence, there was no getting away from the ‘Hey Crazy’ theme of the
collection, summed up with the recycled plastic bag head pieces, toilet roll
accessories (maybe those can be left at home) and silver Bakewell Tart tins as
oversized brooches. For fashion, London has long been the capital of ‘crazy’
(we prefer ‘creativity’), and Louise Gray is currently the undoubted queen of offbeat
London style. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 14px;"> ‘Hey Crazy’: summing up the vibrant, collective urban existence that can only be found only in London. </span></div>
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All images from: <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/">www.vogue.co.uk</a></div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-3383613319491437842013-02-25T14:13:00.000-08:002013-02-25T14:13:17.131-08:00A New (kinda) Beginning <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once again, I can only apologise for being miserably lacking in my blog posting recently. University, various other writing activities and life in general have, this term, supplanted Lanvin My Man in my top three main interests. However, the boredom and frustration generated by revision, exams, essays and, paradoxically, less and less free time, will almost certainly mean that LMM will be getting some TLC in the coming weeks.</div>
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For the mean time, here's a picture of me standing on a roof with weirdly small hands. You're welcome. </div>
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Coat and hat: Various charity shops<br />
Top: Next<br />
Jeans: H&M<br />
Shoes and faux fur collar: New LookAmy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-20758308474204577212013-02-08T10:17:00.000-08:002013-02-08T10:17:17.349-08:00From Austen to Beard: Women Writers Fight Back!<br />
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<b><span lang="EN-US"> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">Trawling
the online papers recently in that ritual daily effort of supreme
procrastination, I stumbled upon the news that this week is, in fact, the two
hundredth anniversary of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Yes, the author that brought you a wet-shirted Colin Firth, an
thumb-bitingly irritating Keira Knightley and the ever-lovable Bridget Jones
published her seminal work two hundred years ago. That one of the best-known
and well-loved authors and her book is still as popular after two hundred years
is something very admirable, I thought to myself. But then I thought again.</div>
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Wading through the endless paragraphs of newsprint on the subject of
Pride & Prejudice, I was suddenly drawn back to my first tentative steps
towards entering the bipolar journalistic world. Picture if you will a crowded
conference room of a middle of the road, middle class university, packed with
sweaty, nervous Freshers about to embark on their first plunge into the cut
throat universe of student journalism. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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A clear voice cuts the air. ‘I want,’ it says, ‘to do a feature on women
writers as, you know, Jane Austen is pretty much the only one anyone’s ever
heard of.’ Cue vehement outburst from my side of the table. ‘What the hell,
what rock are you living under?!’ I yelled, (that bit might have only been in
my head…) ‘What about Virginia Woolf? Margaret Atwood? Silvia Plath?! There are
like, sooo many awesome female writers!’ Silence. I sensed my burgeoning
journalistic career starting to free- fall in a spectacular burst of flames.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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‘Anyway,’ says overly self-important editor. ‘Sounds great! Four hundred
words maybe?’ And with that I slinked away, comforted only by the knowledge
that my much-maligned female authors would be supporting me all the way. Maybe.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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So where does all this hilarious reminiscing lead me? Ah yes, to more
wonderings: that is, why is it that the agglomeration of all female writing in
the past 200 years is summed up by what is essentially a beautifully written,
intellectual chick flick? (Don’t hate me Austen-philes, I am one too!) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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These days, the writing world is a hard one for women: with young,
female journalists such as Laurie Penny and Cath Elliott, as well as older
commentators like Mary Beard, attracting vitriol and horrific online abuse for
their writing, it is seemingly harder for a woman to state her opinion these
days than it was for Miss Austen, with her proto-feminist, pugnacious female
leads. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Does sharing your political, personal, whatever thoughts as a writer
make receiving horrific threats an occupational hazard? Of course not. So how do we combat the online misogynistic
anonymous who practice vehement censorship of female writing whilst crying
‘freedom of speech’? Are cries of ‘do not feed the troll’ adequate or even
effective? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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My advice to women writers everywhere would be: write, and keep writing,
and don’t stop until the ranks of Woolf, Plath, Atwood and yes, Austen are
swelled and prominent enough to keep the trolls at bay. After all, Lizzie Bennett
would never have put with it two hundred years ago. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-72894319507015451952012-12-24T13:57:00.003-08:002012-12-26T13:24:17.392-08:00Christmas Frivolities <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I realise that this post may be coming a little late for you
to dramatically alter your Christmas outfit plans (as if I’d have the temerity
to believe my words would have any effect on how you dress…) but nevertheless,
it may help those who are festively and sartorially stuck. </div>
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<o:p></o:p>Whether your Christmas Day will centre more around lunch
with your grandparents than a swanky glamourous gathering, what you really,
really need is a great dress. As they key to elegance is, apparently,
forgetting what you’re wearing, then a fantastic dress will provide a simple
centre piece to accessorize and style how you wish. Thus, here is a selection
of three great dresses styled by myself to suit any Christmas environment.
Personally, my day will be more Christmas with the grandparents than cocktail
party, but that’s no reason why you can’t dress up a little… Happy Christmas
everybody!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WWLx1QwD6A/UNiiA4JUt-I/AAAAAAAAAXg/_vgYOpUO8jA/s1600/red+dress+outfit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WWLx1QwD6A/UNiiA4JUt-I/AAAAAAAAAXg/_vgYOpUO8jA/s640/red+dress+outfit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Crushed velvet midi dress, <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=1&viewAllFlag&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=7853664&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208523&parent_categoryId=203984&pageSize=200" target="_blank">Topshop</a> £34<br />
Chandelier earrings, <a href="http://dannijo.com/earrings/brights/spektor.html" target="_blank">Dannijo</a> £260<br />
Spotty tights, <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Limited-Collection-Spotted-Sheer-Tights/dp/B005C5T7ZM?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_1&nodeId=61442031&sr=1-1&qid=1356371109&pf_rd_r=1RANFS36TXDNAKZWZ9NC&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=61442031&pf_rd_p=321381387&pf_rd_s=related-items-3" target="_blank">M&S</a> £8<br />
Silver lapis ring, <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/318353" target="_blank">Chan Luu</a> £150<br />
Metallic high heels,<a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-PRONE-Metallic-Pointed-High-Heels/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2526212&cid=4172&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Navy" target="_blank"> ASOS</a> £75<br />
<a href="http://www.marieclaire.com/cm/marieclaire/images/JF/best-hairstyles-anne-hathaway-0511-mdn.jpg" target="_blank">Anna Hathaway image </a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VMi6tDVpHVs/UNi-B2IeeoI/AAAAAAAAAYE/Zu6e5u6R_-4/s1600/xmas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VMi6tDVpHVs/UNi-B2IeeoI/AAAAAAAAAYE/Zu6e5u6R_-4/s640/xmas2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Knit dress, <a href="http://www.pretaportobello.com/pixie/grey-knit-skater-dress.aspx" target="_blank">Pret-a-Portobello</a> £30<br />
Ankle boots, <a href="http://www.asos.com/River-Island/River-Island-Studded-Peep-Toe-Boots/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2745253&cid=4172&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">River Island</a> £65<br />
Oxblood bowler, <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=1&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=6718074&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208549&parent_categoryId=204484&pageSize=200" target="_blank">Topshop</a> £26<br />
Jewelled collar, <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/315326" target="_blank">Karl</a> £150<br />
Bracelets, both <a href="http://www.pretaportobello.com/women/jewellery/" target="_blank">Pret-a-Portobello</a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GxUnH77K6Eo/UNtqw1tGBrI/AAAAAAAAAZA/CGXwIyvfL14/s1600/xmas3+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GxUnH77K6Eo/UNtqw1tGBrI/AAAAAAAAAZA/CGXwIyvfL14/s640/xmas3+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lace shirt, <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/332580" target="_blank">Raquel Allegra</a> £430<br />
Leather skirt, <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=1&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=7809534&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208530&parent_categoryId=203984&pageSize=200" target="_blank">Topshop</a> £38<br />
Embellished clutch, <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/313924" target="_blank">Matthew Williamson</a> £995<br />
Necklace, <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/jewellery-and-hair-accessories/gold-turquoise-crystal-chain-bib-necklace_269371137" target="_blank">New Look</a> £14.99<br />
Wedge trainer, <a href="http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product/uk/en/zara-neu-W2012/269191/1098565/WEDGE%20SNEAKER" target="_blank">Zara</a> £69.99<br />
Bow belt, <a href="http://www.hm.com/gb/product/06338?article=06338-A" target="_blank">H&M</a> £7.99<br />
Ear clips, <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=1&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=7533629&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208556&parent_categoryId=204484&pageSize=200&refinements=category~[210009|208556]&noOfRefinements=1" target="_blank">Topshop</a> £6.25<br />
<br />Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-91615626832548260992012-12-13T15:07:00.002-08:002012-12-13T15:10:27.781-08:00The Lust List 13/12/2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Occasionally, a spot of voyeurism never hurts anybody. Especially in the fashion world. And, even more especially, when you're a poverty- stricken student both at the end of their student loan and the end of their financial tether. Due to an unfortunate locksmith incident of an overwhelming magnitude, the past term has been a rather tight one and, until the pay slips start coming in for my holiday job, there will be no flashing of the proverbial cash for me. Proverbial because, for the last month or so, there has been none of it. Window shopping it is then. </div>
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<b><i>From top left, clockwise:</i></b></div>
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1. Pumps, <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-LINGO-Ballet-Flats/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2378846&cid=6459&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Nude" target="_blank">ASOS</a> now £16.50 (the cut price makes me want these even more now)</div>
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2. Statement earrings, <a href="http://dannijo.com/earrings/brights/spektor.html" target="_blank">Dannijo</a> £260ish (obviously this is never gonna happen)</div>
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3. White Brogues, <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/product/41959" target="_blank">Church's</a> now £126 (almost makes them affordable)</div>
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4. Art Deco, <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk/triangle-chandelier-earrings/invt/5761413520448/&bklist=" target="_blank">Urban Outfitters</a> earrings, £10 (possibly)</div>
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5. White faux-fur coat, <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Mongolian-Fur-Jacket/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2489639&cid=11900&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Berry" target="_blank">ASOS</a> £80 (if only, this is so damn sexy)</div>
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6. Men's watch, <a href="http://www.asos.com/Jacob-Jensen/Jacob-Jensen-Mens-Tan-leather-2-piece-Watch/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2141447" target="_blank">Jacob Jensen </a>now £129 (I love chunky men's watches on women)</div>
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7. <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=1&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=6258587&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208528&parent_categoryId=203984&pageSize=200" target="_blank">Tartan trousers</a>, Topshop £38 (I've wanted these for so, so long now)</div>
<br />Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-89291369436759498902012-12-13T09:32:00.002-08:002012-12-13T09:33:13.388-08:00And the NEWGEN A/W '13 winners are....<br />
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<a href="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/Shows/SS2013/London/R-T-W/simone_rocha/00280h_426x639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/Shows/SS2013/London/R-T-W/simone_rocha/00280h_426x639.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/Shows/SS2013/London/R-T-W/jw_anderson/00040h_426x639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/Shows/SS2013/London/R-T-W/jw_anderson/00040h_426x639.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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{Simone Rocha S/S '13 (left) and J.W. Anderson S/S '13}</div>
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London’s status as the creative capital of fashion has been
cemented this week with the announcement of this year’s winners of the prestigious
New Generation sponsorship award, run by the British Fashion Council. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The New Generation initiative (NEWGEN) supports, endorses and promotes
innovative British design talent through financial sponsorship, business and
mentoring support, the use of the British Fashion Council’s Catwalk Show Space
or other venues, and key introductions to the international fashion press and
buyers. An invaluable award to claim,
no? Seen as a key facilitator for the year on year growth of British fashion
(the industry is worth £21 billion to the UK economy in 2012), the NEWGEN award
has helped to establish designers such as Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson,
Christopher Kane, Richard Nicoll, Erdem and Mary Katrantzou, to name just a
few, in the past. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The British Fashion Council continues its support of the
next generation of new design talent through sponsorship divided into three categories:
Catwalk Sponsorship, Presentation Sponsorship and Exhibition Sponsorship. The winners
of the prestigious first category are current Brit fashion darlings J.W.
Anderson and Simone Rocha, who will bring their individual edgy-design aesthetic
to the catwalks of London Fashion Week in February. J.W. Anderson has already
found notable success in his win of the BFC Emerging Designer of the Year 2012
award, and, along with a successful collaboration with Topshop, has been named
as Christopher Kane’s first successor at Versus. Simone Rocha (daughter of John
Rocha), was also up for the Emerging Designer award, showed in the BFC’s Show
Space in September’s London Fashion Week to rave reviews for her skillful fusion
of masculine and feminine designs. </div>
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With continued support and sponsorship,
these two bright lights will rise to shine for the British fashion industry,
illustrating to the world the extent of the innovative design talent that’s currently
emerging from London: just as their NEWGEN predecessors have done before them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.elleuk.com/var/elleuk/storage/images/fashion/news/jw-anderson-lands-at-topshop/14295763-1-eng-GB/jw-anderson-lands-at-topshop_GB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.elleuk.com/var/elleuk/storage/images/fashion/news/jw-anderson-lands-at-topshop/14295763-1-eng-GB/jw-anderson-lands-at-topshop_GB.jpg" width="491" /></a></div>
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{J.W. Anderson's Topshop collection with famous bat jumper, as worn by Alexa & co}</div>
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The other A/W 2013 winners are:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Presentation sponsorship: Christopher Raeburn; J.JS Lee;
Lucas Nascimento; Marques’Almeida; Nasir Mazhar; Sister by Sibling; Sophia
Webster<o:p></o:p></div>
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Exhibition sponsorship: 1205; Huishan Zhang; Liam Fahy;
Maarten van der Horst; Palmer//Harding <o:p></o:p></div>
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Images: <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/" target="_blank">Vogue</a> and <a href="http://www.elleuk.com/fashion/news/jw-anderson-lands-at-topshop#image=1" target="_blank">Elle</a></div>
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References: <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/" target="_blank">Vogue</a>, <a href="http://www.britishfashioncouncil.com/news_detail.aspx?id=480" target="_blank">The British Fashion Council</a> </div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-32581593217819296682012-12-12T04:07:00.000-08:002012-12-12T04:08:08.052-08:00New Year's Resolutions That Are Easy To KeepIn case you missed it, here's my article on New Year's resolutions which are really, truly, easy to keep. I'm on page 35!<br />
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-52802157949396892992012-12-11T12:20:00.003-08:002012-12-11T12:20:35.632-08:00Bring On The Gems!<br />
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Jewels, jewels, jewels.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Big jewels, small jewels, sparkly jewels, Gothic jewels; of
all the trends this Autumn/ Winter costume jewellery has to be the most ubiquitous.
Chunky jewels lavish the necklines of chunky knits. Sparkly ear droplets adorn
everything from casual-chic daytime outfits to the most directional evening
attire.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Although it wasn't often hailed as a key look when the
fashion forecasters had their say six months ago, neck and ear frosting (the
two key areas to showcase your jewels) has slowly crept into the fashion
consciousness as the winter nights drew in. They brilliantly lend to many
trends across the spectrum this season, from Gothic to heritage to Baroque;
perfect for when you’re trend cross- referencing or only want a nod to the
look.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2CgAG4rGww/UMeSuUwdmsI/AAAAAAAAAWk/nY-LY9skxW8/s1600/collage+shows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2CgAG4rGww/UMeSuUwdmsI/AAAAAAAAAWk/nY-LY9skxW8/s640/collage+shows.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The jewels of the season differ hugely from the stacks of
arm candy that has prevailed since the summer; this Winter opt for a single,
statement piece. This decadent infection of the fashion subconscious can be
seen to have stemmed from the shows of a number of individual designers and
fashion houses, from Lanvin to Holly Fulton. The similarities in showcasing
these jewels were the same across the board: none of them allowed the jewellery
to take centre stage, but only to contribute and build upon a pre-established theme.
Dolce and Gabbana used opulent layers of jewels to build up the Baroque feel of
their sumptuous collection. Alber Elbaz bedecked the models at Lanvin with
classically Gothic gems, and Holly Fulton accessorized her vibrant collection
with OTT earrings. Chanel showcased a trend that has certainly caught on: a statement
sparkly necklace layered over a downbeat knit. If you’re at all nervous about
breaking out the gems, this is by far the easiest look to tackle.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><i>Shop The Look</i></b></div>
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{Clockwise from top left: <a href="http://www.hm.com/gb/product/00585?article=00585-D" target="_blank">Necklace</a>, H&M £12.99; <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk/triangle-chandelier-earrings/invt/5761413520448/&bklist=" target="_blank">Earrings</a>, Urban Outfitters £10; <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/jewellery-and-hair-accessories/neon-pink-gem-drop-spike-earrings_265250477?icSort=Price+(High+to+Low)" target="_blank">Earrings</a>, New Look £6.99; <a href="http://www.boohoo.com/restofworld/accessories/jewellery/icat/jewellery/new-in-accessories/adria-black-jewelled-necklace/invt/azz56987" target="_blank">Necklace</a>, Boohoo £12; <a href="http://www.forever21.com/UK/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_earrings&ProductID=1018584843&VariantID=" target="_blank">Earrings</a>, Forever 21 £5.65; <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=1&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=8420035&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208556&parent_categoryId=204484&pageSize=200" target="_blank">Necklace</a>, Tophop £28; <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=1&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=8235931&langId=-1&sort_field=Relevance&categoryId=208556&parent_categoryId=204484&pageSize=200" target="_blank">Earrings</a>, Topshop £12.50}</div>
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All photos from www.vogue.co.uk</div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-75251956203960677372012-10-29T16:05:00.002-07:002012-12-12T04:02:07.433-08:00The Midlands' Fashion Designer Awards 2012: For AREA Culture GuideOriginally written for Birmingham's <a href="http://areamagazine.wordpress.com/2012/10/25/the-midlands-fashion-designer-awards-2012/" target="_blank">AREA Culture Guide</a><br />
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<a href="http://sphotos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/418074_472204716158194_633637404_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://sphotos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/418074_472204716158194_633637404_n.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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(Sarika Pancholi, winner of the Emerging Designer of the
Year Award)<o:p></o:p></div>
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An impeccably dressed and fabulous crowd descended on the
Botanical Gardens for an elegant evening of champagne, cupcakes and
cutting-edge design.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Returning for the 5th time, this year’s Midlands’ Fashion
Designer Awards was a dazzling success, with 350 people attending to support 26
emerging fashion designer present their collections in a dynamic runway show.
Competition was steep, with contestants originating from across the Midlands,
the UK, and even further afield. Divided into three categories – Independent
Designer of the Year, Emerging Designer of the Year and Young Designer of the
Year – the Awards showcased the innovative work of exciting new design talent.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A panel of five expert judges, including Lizzie Gardner, a
Birmingham based fashion journalist and stylist, and Debra Hepburn, a founding
member ofYoung British Designers, had the tricky task of awarding the
sought-after prize for each category: the presentation of their collections in
a retail unit in a high footfall area of Birmingham City Centre, courtesy of
Retail Birmingham, as well as the chance to showcase their work at the Midlands
Business Awards.<o:p></o:p></div>
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With collections ranging from ready-to-wear and couture to
lingerie and bridal wear the decision of who to crown the winners was indeed a
tricky one. Highlights of the fashion-filled evening included the show’s
opening collection by young designer Hiu Wing, whose nod to traditional
oriental design was found in elegantly draped kimono-esque tops and dresses in
a delicate palette peach, blue and gold, with a luxurious metallic sheen.
Furthermore, rising bridal wear designer Katie Peake combined seductive
corsetry and demure lace in a collection that was both traditionally bridal and
stylishly bohemian.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Katie’s fellow classmate from Staffordshire University,
Alisa Kate Brown, presented a collection which fused mannish outerwear with
elements of the boudoir, such as suspender detailing and blush tones, in a
manner which was both innovative and elegant.<o:p></o:p></div>
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(Katie Peake's bridal collection)</div>
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Another notable emerging designer was Jade Hope (pictured above), whose lingerie collection ‘Vintage Tease’ combined fetish straps, graphic cut outs and silky panels made for boudoir-inspired looks with a modern, directional edge. After the show, Jade explained that she was inspired by vintage lingerie from the 1920s and 30s, and had wanted to explore how this could be combined with bold strapping to give it a more structured appearance. In the future, Jade plans to launch a website in the New Year to showcase her designs, which will be reformulated into a more wearable collection.</div>
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<a href="http://areamagazine.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/jade-hope-2.jpg" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2542" src="http://areamagazine.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/jade-hope-2.jpg?w=479" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 5px; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Jade Hope 2" /></a></div>
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(‘Vintage Tease’, by Jade Hope)<o:p></o:p></div>
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The winning collections, soon to go on display in Birmingham
City Centre, were notable for their diversity. Winner of the Young Designer of
the Year Award, Alice Moore, was ‘really, really happy and proud’ that her
collection had won the accolade. Inspired by the prospective effects of climate
change, Alice designed her collection to depict changing weather patterns, and
the potential necessity of dresses for all weather conditions in a single
outfit. Blurred aquatic digital prints were combined in layers of silk, chiffon
and latex, with futuristic shoulder pieces and sculptural puffed sleeves adding
a dramatic element to the collection, which was strongly reminiscent of both
Christopher Kane and Christian Lacroix. Winner of the Emerging Fashion Designer
award, Leicester based Sarika Pancholi used tribal-inspired tassels, beading
and weaving embellishment to create a ground breaking knitwear collection.
Oversized knitted cardigans in patchwork knits were deconstructed, with
streaming tassels escaping from them like unravelling threads. Flashes of neon
wool amongst the tribal motifs give a slightly psychedelic feel to the
collection; this was innovative knitwear with an edge.<o:p></o:p></div>
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(Alice Moore, winner of the Young Designer of the Year
Award)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Finally, Independent Designer of the Year Tamara Joseph
showcased a collection which heavily focused on blown up silk prints on
bias-cut, billowing dresses. Inspired by patterns such as collages, graffiti,
pollen, or even stains, the ‘Catalyst’ collection featured a bold, dramatic
colour palette which had been dyed and printed by hand.</div>
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(Catalyst, by Tamara Joseph)<o:p></o:p></div>
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This year’s Midlands’ Fashion Designer Awards showed us that
there is no shortage of dynamic and innovative design talent emerging from the
region. However international the outlook of the event may be, however, the
breadth and variety of the collections was a perfect illustration of all the
compelling diversity that Birmingham has to offer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-52370945762224523692012-09-17T12:46:00.000-07:002012-09-17T12:47:01.208-07:00Matthew Williamson S/S '13<br />
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If there was ever a collection that summed up the
ever-revolving cycle of fashion, it was the one shown by Matthew Williamson at
London Fashion Week, as he celebrated 15 successful years at the helm of his
own-name label.</div>
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Williamson aim was to
make a synopsis of “the DNA of the brand”- peacock bright colour ways and
daring, red carpet ready evening gowns being eponymous with the label- and
perform a thorough re-evaluation for the modern customer. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The traditional Williamson clashing hot ‘n’ cold colour
palette was reimagined onto thoroughly modern silhouettes, proving that the
designer has a lot more depth than singularly providing red carpet magic. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Blazing trails of peacock brights blistered and collided in
a stream of white light on of-the-moment silken shirts and short suits. Ankle
grazing tailored trousers and lust-worthy knits added to the wearable aspects
of Williamson’s S/S ’13 collection; no longer will these designs simply clothe
the pages of the glossies, but the backs of their exacting editors as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Kaleidoscope prints adorned more trousers, dresses and
jackets; the design was abstracted using embellishment and laser cut-outs,
indicating Williamson’s progress and experimentation over the years. Finally,
flowing, bias-cut dresses in shades from aquamarine and cobalt to the fieriest
of sunset orange/pink gave the designer his grand, A-list ending. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This was a style revision that followed in the footsteps of
Galliano for Dior: Williamson chose a few precise elements of his brand’s
makeup, selecting only those details which were both eponymous to the label’s
image and which could easily translate into covetable modern designs, as John
Galliano accomplished with the iconic New Look silhouette at Dior. We can only
hope that Raf Simons will also perform such a successful transition in his
first ever ready-to-wear collection for the label at Paris Fashion Week; he
would do well to take some advice from Williamson on that one. <o:p></o:p></div>
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All photos: <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/">www.vogue.co.u</a>k</div>
Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-2895555583255126262012-09-14T15:01:00.002-07:002012-09-14T15:06:56.318-07:00Bora Aksu Spring/ Summer '13<br />
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There’s a reason
why Bora Aksu is one of the most watched designers emerging from London today. Adhering
strictly to Louise Wilson’s, the fearsome head of the MA programme at Central
St Martins, from which Aksu graduated in 2002, central mantra against
derivativeness, this season the Turkish designer has produced yet another
starkly original collection to add to his impressive legacy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Describing his
work as ‘demi-couture’, for Spring/ Summer 13 Aksu has produced a collection which
focuses upon the point at which sweet romanticism collides with a darker edge;
he calls upon Queen Marie of Romania, the grand-daughter of Queen Victoria, to be
his central muse. Torn from her British roots by her marriage to Ferdinand of
Romania, Queen Maria embraced Romanian culture and traditions whilst still
maintaining her quintessential Englishness. This can be witnessed literally
through Aksu’s frequent depiction of traditionally shaped, gauzy puffed sleeves
and heavier dirndl skirts in the collection, and more metaphorically with his melding
of fabric and prints.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The layering of tulle over cotton and silk
embossed with abstract prints give an ephemeral, trompe l’oeil effect to the
garments, speaking of a life full of uncertainties and layered with different
experiences. In fact, the meaning of the
repeated print flows with the bias cut fabrics; occasionally floral, sometimes
almost artery-like as it curves with the models’ bodies, it ties a sense of
displacement in with a distinct celebration of the ornate and beautiful. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Apart from the
inspiration aspect of this collection, Aksu additionally displays an innovative
approach to cut, utilising the build-up of the aforementioned separate layers to
combine into translucent silken waterfalls of dresses, ideal for summer
wafting. Furthermore, inserts of ruched chiffon brought low-key dynamism and
shaping to some dresses, whereas shots of embroidered collars, lapels, belts
and the occasional knitted vest grounded others sections of the collection.</div>
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The last thing to
mention is, of course, the crocheted crowns worn by each model that strutted
down the catwalk. Made by Aksu to compliment the inspiration behind the Spring/
Summer ’13 collection, they were the perfect, unique accessorised the romantic
but yet slightly gothic feel to the clothes on display. As always, Bora Aksu is
anything but derivative. <o:p></o:p><br />
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All photos: <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/">www.vogue.co.uk</a></div>
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Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-34405020675052839052012-09-10T15:43:00.002-07:002012-09-10T16:05:51.821-07:00Trend Forecast S/S 2013: NYFW<b>White Out</b><br />
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{Clockwise from top left: Theyskens Theory; DKNY; Alexander Wang; Carolina Herrera; Altuzarra; Victoria Beckham} </div>
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<b>Contrasting Collars</b></div>
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{Clockwise from top left: Alexander Wang; Peter Som; Thakoon; Victoria Beckham; Carolina Herrera}</div>
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<b>Striking Silhouettes</b></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"> {</span><span style="text-align: center;">Clockwise from top left:</span><span style="text-align: center;"> Theyskens Theory; Monique Lhuillier; </span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"> Victoria Beckham; Monique Lhuillier; Lacoste}</span><br />
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<b>Monochrome</b><br />
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{Clockwise from top left: 3.1 Phillip Lim; Diane von Furstenberg; Victoria Beckham; Alexander Wang; Monique Lhuillier; Jason Wu; DKNY}</div>
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<b>Sexy Sophistication</b><br />
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{Clockwise from top left: Monique Lhuillier; Zac Posen; BCBG Max Azaria; Peter Som; Altuzarra}</div>
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<b>Leather Obsession</b></div>
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{Clockwise from top left: Monique Lhuillier; Jason Wu; Theyskens Theory; Jason Wu; Alexander Wang; 3.1 Phillip Lim}<br />
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All photos from <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/">www.vogue.co.uk</a></div>
Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-56399903552505525592012-09-07T13:12:00.000-07:002012-09-07T13:12:52.955-07:001-2-3-4 Festival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For my first post in a long, long time I decided to attempt something I've never tried before: street style snapping. The perfect opportunity presented itself at last weekend's 1-2-3-4 festival in the hipster- paradise that is Shoreditch. You just couldn't move in the festival for bloggers taking pictures of each other in a self -propelling cycle of brothel- creepers, denim shirts and studded leather jackets. </div>
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Silvia Olsen (no, not a relation, although I did ask...). What especially drew me to her outfit were her play on proportions and textures, with her chiffon-y midi skirt paired with an oversized parka and chunky knit. Although a tricky look to pull off, the simple block colours and flash of skin at ankle and wrist ensure that the outfit didn't swamp her petite frame.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JZdvdxxFqI4/UEkRcXU6tqI/AAAAAAAAATw/2Mi4Dpo5I9E/s1600/fat+friend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JZdvdxxFqI4/UEkRcXU6tqI/AAAAAAAAATw/2Mi4Dpo5I9E/s640/fat+friend.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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Amanda Lawrence. I was drawn to her dip-dyed hair and flash of red lippie from across the field- a simple yet striking look that is an easy solution to looking stylish on an everyday basis. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hCcGqUAhVo/UEkR_9CLZyI/AAAAAAAAAT4/MgzD3puP_rk/s1600/burlesque+girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hCcGqUAhVo/UEkR_9CLZyI/AAAAAAAAAT4/MgzD3puP_rk/s640/burlesque+girl.jpg" width="344" /></a></div>
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I adored meeting Miss Vienna Green, a burlesque performer and fire eater (!!!) from London. She was glamour and sophistication personified, with everything from her fab shoes to her immaculate nail polish either sourced or inspired by the 1930s or 40s. I'll always regret not taking a picture of the back of her vintage dress, which was cut low into the small of her back and finished with a sultry scarlet bow. </div>
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Lastly, I really liked Louise Donovan's Courtney Love-inspired grunge outfit...mainly because I recognised her playsuit from on I tried on in Beyond Retro a few months ago! I love the simple grey tee, too. </div>
<br />Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-48683767589515947672012-07-12T16:10:00.000-07:002012-07-12T16:10:10.365-07:00Vogue Old and NewI've just started a huge redecorating project for my bedroom, and in clearing my shelves to ready them for a much needed lick of paint I distracted myself for a good couple of hours looking through my collection of Vogues. One of the first covers to catch my eye is this one of Julianne Moore from July 2009, for that year's 'Ageless Style' issue. I just can't believe how beautiful this Julianne's cover is; the subtle, warm lighting, her natural (read: unphotoshopped) freckled skin and flawless makeup. The only incongruous aspect is the autumn palette and lighting that Vogue has used (for me, the colours look more suitable for a September/ October issue), but overall it's a hundred, million times better than the over-produced covers of the likes of Cheryl Cole that we've seen in recent years. More please Vogue.<br />
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I above and beyond prefer dynamic, inspirational covers featuring models to the uber-photoshopped shrines to the latest celeb (Lana Del Ray, Cheryl Cole, Adele etc etc etc), who most likely will have disappeared into the nether in a year's time. Cheryl Cole, anyone....<br />
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However, I adored in the most recent 'Ageless Style' issue was the feature on the wardrobes of inspirational, driven women.Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-23614072561760151542012-06-13T09:09:00.001-07:002012-06-13T09:09:18.441-07:00H&M Embraces the Avant-garde!This winter H&M will be showcasing an influx of avant-garde, deconstructed and individual designs, brought to the public through an unforeseen collaboration with the mysterious fashion house Maison Martin Margiela.<br />
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The ultra-discreet 'maison', founded in 1988 by its retiring namesake (the Dutch designer is never photographed or appears after his fashion shows), will undoubtedly bring its own brand of conceptual design to the mainstream high street shop. Martin Margiela has never been known to conform to the sartorial- norm, creating his clothes through deconstruction, allowing the creative process to visible upon the garments and playing with unusual proportions. Indeed, dresses in the house's S/S '12 collection were made from the re-creation of their pattern pieces, either in a multitude of sequins or through being encased in plastic. </div>
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However, what is most intriguing is how these stimuli will be interpreted on a cheaper, mass-produced level; I await the collection, due to drop on November 15th, with baited breath!
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Images all from <a href="http://style.com/">style.com</a></div>
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Maison Martin Margiela S/S '12</div>
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Maison Martin Margiela A/W '12</div>
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Maison Martin Margiela Men's A/W '12</div>
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So will there be a continuation of the deconstructed, hard/soft juxtaposition of silk, chiffon, leather and plastic seen in the S/S '12 collection? Or the masculine tailoring, leather inserts and muted colours of the winter examples? One thing's for sure, I think we'll be seeing plenty of funnel necks:</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6WsPzz4XSc0" width="560"></iframe></div>Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-53784673950719506032012-06-07T15:22:00.002-07:002012-06-07T15:29:08.108-07:00Gold In The Air Of Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ByYWzYDtBBY/T9EnI6WcwoI/AAAAAAAAARc/ZqVOPb5U8HQ/s1600/ball+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ByYWzYDtBBY/T9EnI6WcwoI/AAAAAAAAARc/ZqVOPb5U8HQ/s640/ball+dress.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just a quick post to show you my Cleopatra impersonation at my student hall's summer ball. I wish I had smiled properly, I look like I'm trying not to laugh at something behind the camera- the girl wearing the same dress as me perhaps? (A complete and utter NIGHTMARE, I had to be refrained from 'accidentally' spilling a glass of red wine down her front. I'm not quite sure why girls get so angry about this sort of thing, but judging by the angry glares passing between us the entire evening, we certainly did. By the way, she was wearing the completely wrong shoes and bag to go with the dress...) I'm wearing a TFNC dress, which can be found <a href="http://www.asos.com/TFNC/TFNC-Dress-Sequin-Bandeau-Chiffon-Skirt-Maxi/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2241173&SearchQuery=TFNC&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Goldbodicecreamsk" target="_blank">here</a>, and thrifted wedges and jewellery.<br />
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Hair inspired by this little youtube video here:<br />
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She is so sweet! And the hair style is super easy, even by my poor standards.<br />
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Photo courtesy of my friend Charley (also in the photo), whose blog can be found here:</div>
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<a href="http://charleyross.tumblr.com/">charleyross.tumblr.com</a></div>
</div>Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-48217384881863591872012-06-05T13:23:00.000-07:002012-06-05T13:23:28.249-07:00Eco Fashion Ahoy!A recent article that I wrote on the end of 'fast' high street fashion, for Birmingham's <a href="http://issuu.com/fusedmagazine/docs/area_june2012?mode=window&pageNumber=1" target="_blank">AREA Culture Guide</a> (p.60), has got me pondering the alternatives to the cheap, mass produced clothes offered by shops such as H&M and Primark.<br />
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Although I am fully aware of the social and moral implications inherent to shopping in stores such as these, I'm afraid that a third implication, that of economics, is usually the deciding factor when it comes to my shopping habits.<br />
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As a poverty stricken student I can barely afford Topshop, let alone well known eco-friendly labels such as Noir and Stella McCartney. However, I recognise that there's a very definite gap in consumer knowledge of affordable 'green' fashion; that's why I decided to bring together some of the best, most diverse and reasonably priced environmentally- friendly brands, right here on my blog.<br />
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I hope you are inspired by all them to change your shopping habits even a little bit- it could make all the difference.<br />
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<b><u><a href="http://nearfar.myshopify.com/" target="_blank">Nearfar</a></u></b><br />
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'Bureh' dress, £50.00</div>
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An ethical label which works with tailors local Sierra Leone, and uses a combination of traditional West African prints and modern, stylish designs. Nearfar aims to provide a sustainable and ethical living for disadvantaged young adults living in the country's capital city, Freetown.</div>
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High-waisted Shorts, £35.00<br />
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<a href="http://nearfar.myshopify.com/">nearfar.myshopify.com</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.peopletree.co.uk/" target="_blank">People Tree</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.peopletree.co.uk/image.axd?src=%2fproductimages%2f%2faimee%2fcoral-gingham-ruffle-dress-49c6a1dfb94a.jpg&width=500&height=700" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.peopletree.co.uk/image.axd?src=%2fproductimages%2f%2faimee%2fcoral-gingham-ruffle-dress-49c6a1dfb94a.jpg&width=500&height=700" width="456" /></a></div>
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Dress, £60</div>
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Slightly more expensive than Nearfar, People Tree boast an eco- perfect retail history. The online store, which has collaborated with the likes of Thakoon and Emma Watson to create previous collections,<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> aims to use only organic and Fairtrade cotton, natural dyes, and recycled products. Furthermore, they are part of a Fairtrade network which covers twenty developing countries. This season, People Tree are channeling the 50's housewife trend in gingham and hourglass-hugging wrap dresses.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.peopletree.co.uk/image.axd?src=%2fproductimages%2f%2fwomen%2ftops%2fvictoria-knit-jumper-69537ce30852.jpg&width=500&height=700" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.peopletree.co.uk/image.axd?src=%2fproductimages%2f%2fwomen%2ftops%2fvictoria-knit-jumper-69537ce30852.jpg&width=500&height=700" width="456" /></a></div>
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Knit jumper, £85</div>
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<a href="http://www.peopletree.co.uk/">www.peopletree.co.uk</a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://www.bibico.co.uk/" target="_blank">Bibico</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0023/0082/products/0990.jpg?105472" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0023/0082/products/0990.jpg?105472" width="640" /></a></div>
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Maxi skirt, £69</div>
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An ethical line which reminds me of the simple, cosy designs of Toast, Bibico uses only natural materials to produce its garments. Furthermore, the clothes offered in their online store are only produced in fair trade cooperatives in the developing world. </div>
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St Tropez Shorts, £39</div>
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<a href="http://www.bibico.co.uk/">www.bibico.co.uk</a></div>
</div>Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-10593048616181545882012-06-05T12:00:00.003-07:002012-06-05T12:00:27.405-07:00Check out my recent article on the end of disposable fashion in the June edition of AREA Culture Guide. Page 60-61 everyone!<br />
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</div>Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4267237360260672892.post-83778305979618781032012-06-01T05:52:00.001-07:002012-06-01T05:54:50.468-07:00On the subject of weddingsOk! magazine. Don't Tell The Bride. Countless chick flicks which all end in one big fat wedding (because that's all women should aspire to, right?)<br />
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<a href="http://cdn2.khloekcdn.celebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Khloe-Kardashian-Lamar-Odom-Wedding-OK-Magazine-10010933-580x796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://cdn2.khloekcdn.celebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Khloe-Kardashian-Lamar-Odom-Wedding-OK-Magazine-10010933-580x796.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
This recent landslide of nuptial- filled images has created something far from the 'fairy tale' romance they feign to offer. Encouraged by the awkwardly posed and publicity- paid for celeb weddings, as well as the slew of bridal- inspired programmes that now dominate our television screens, it seems that all the world now wants a part in these tacky celebrations of matrimony. The vast sums of money, the hideous (-ly expensive) white polyester meringue, hired suits, brash flower displays... does it not all appear just a tiny bit vulgar?<br />
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I first thought up this article idea in reaction to an indescribably horrific wedding invitation that my parents received. On first glance I thought the invite, written as 'poetry' in rhyming couplets (to symbolise their everlasting love, perhaps?) was bad enough. However, as I read on, I realised that wasn't the worst of it. At the very bottom of the card, hidden among the florid font and bad poetry, was a request for cash as a wedding present. Or cheque, I don't think they minded much.<span style="text-align: center;">The invitation was the catalyst for my developing views on current weddings. Gone is a celebration of love among your closest friends and family, and in are vulgar displays of faux romance, complete with a final bill running into the tens of thousands. I wasn't as much put out by the style of the aforementioned invitation, but the underlying message that this young family had obviously spent all their money on this wedding, and were now having to ask for cash from their guests, left a very sour taste in my mouth.</span><br />
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Weddings shouldn't be about ticking off a checklist of venue, dress, catering, suits, bridesmaids' dresses, hair and makeup etc etc etc. Do what you want, I say. Celebrate in a way that demonstrates you and your love for one another, not a carbon copy of Katy Price's last wedding in Hello magazine. Be creative. You don't have to wear a homogeneous white polyester meringue, with a sweetheart neckline and matching nylon dresses for your bridesmaids. First and foremost it's a fire hazard, and secondly it looks (to me) incredibly vulgar.<br />
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<img src="http://www.weddinginspirasi.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/kate-moss-wedding-dress-photos.jpg" />
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Instead, take inspiration from Kate Moss, who added her distinct personal flair to the occasion. Inspired by the Great Gatsby, Moss wanted her wedding to be 'soft-focused' and 'dreamy'; she completed the look with 30s style John Galliano couture dress. However, if your budget can't stretch that far, I suggest opting for an authentic vintage gown, the most stylish of which can be found at <a href="http://www.thevintageweddingdresscompany.com/stockists/">thevintageweddingdresscompany.com</a>, which is recommended by Vogue. My favourite from their selection is this 1920s beaded dress, which has the most divine back I've ever seen.<br />
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<img height="400" src="http://www.thevintageweddingdresscompany.com/images/collections/decades/AC095_1_231_xl.jpg" width="266" /><img height="400" src="http://www.thevintageweddingdresscompany.com/images/collections/decades/AC095_1_011_l.jpg" width="266" /></div>
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If you're really limited financially, then for God's sake don't blow your entire savings on the supposed 'best day of your life' (I like to think there'd be a lot more great days in your life too, thanks). There are countless vintage boutiques and stalls popping up over the country where, if you hunt hard enough, treasures can be found. Even if it's just the fabric that you fall in love with, collaborate a sewing machine- savvy friend to create a gown entirely to your taste. Simply flower displays, which can be homemade, can complement hand made invitations and table decorations. Round up friends and family and ask them to help with small tasks, meaning that when the day comes your wedding will be a true communal experience, with every guest feeling like they're part of something special.<br />
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Then just add copious amount of alcohol, a great playlist and a large dance floor, and have a day you'll never forget.<br />
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Images from:<br />
<a href="http://khloekardashian.celebuzz.com/read_my_entire_ok_wedding_feature-09-2009/khloe-kardashian-lamar-odom-wedding-ok-magazine-10010933-jpg-2">khloekardashian.celebuzz.com</a><br />
<a href="http://www.weddinginspirasi.com/2011/08/28/kim-kardashians-wedding-dress-by-vera-wang-plus-kate-mosss-bridal-party/">www.weddinginspirasi.com</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thevintageweddingdresscompany.com/collections/decades/line.php?id=B2">www.thevintageweddingdresscompany.com</a>Amy Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04378479064679690466noreply@blogger.com1