Monday 27 February 2017

Academy Awards 2017 - Red Carpet

The 89th Academy Awards took place last night in Los Angeles. Here's a look at who wore what on the red carpet...
Alicia Vikander - Louis Vuitton / Janelle Monae - Elie Saab / Brie Larson - Oscar de la Renta
Kirsten Dunst - Christian Dior Couture / Taraji P.Henson - Alberta Ferretti
Charlize Theron - Dior / Dakota Johnson - Gucci
Jessica Biel - KaufmanFranco / Emma Stone - Givenchy
Olivia Culpo - Marchesa / Sofia Boutella - Chanel
Teresa Palmer - Prada / Hailee Steinfeld - Ralph & Russo
Felicity Jones - Dior / Nicole Kidman - Armani Prive / Halle Berry - Versace
Priyanka Chopra - Ralph & Russo / Michelle Williams - Louis Vuitton
Naomie Harris - Calvin Klein / Karlie Kloss - Stella McCartney
Chrissy Teigan - Zuhair Murad / Emma Roberts - Armani
Ginnifer Goodwin - Zuhair Murad / Viola Davies - Armani Prive
Ruth Negga - Valentino / Scarlett Johnasson - Alaia

And the here's a look at the best dressed attendees at the Vanity Fair party...
1. Katy Perry - Jean Paul Gaultier
2. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley - Versace
3. Elizabeth Banks - Elie Saab
4. Thandie Newton - Schiaparelli Couture
5. Hailee Steinfeld - Ralph & Russo
6. Jennifer Aniston - Versace
7. Kate Bosworth - J.Mendel
8. Demi Lovato - Monique Lhuillier
9. Jessica Alba - Ralph & Russo
10. Kate Hudson - Roberto Cavalli

My Best Dressed
1. Brie Larson wearing Oscar de la Renta - This full look oozed old Hollywood glamour. The velvet dress had an elegant bodice and the cascading ruffles were stunning. 
2. Kirsten Dunst wearing Dior - Again, this was classic Hollywood glamour which looked so effortlessly chic.
3. Jessica Biel wearing KaufmanFranco - Head to toe in a jaw dropping embellished gold gown, this total look was flawless.

Who was your best dressed?

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
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Saturday 25 February 2017

Pre Fall 17 Moodboard - Decadent Luxe

When it comes to fashion, nothing says luxe better than rich materials - think sumptuous velvet, high levels of embroidery and opulent feathers. For Pre Fall 17, Roberto Cavalli and Elie Saab played on this theme with suitably decadent collections. Cavalli's offering featured the most beautiful detailed paisley printed dress in jewel colours, paired with an embroidered jacket for the ultimate high-fashion finish. Over at Elie Saab, exquisite embroidery was applied to tulle and mesh dresses - afterall these collections will hit stores in time for 2017 party season. Draw inspiration from vintage jewellery, see David Webb and De Beers for reference, as well as 1920's Gatsby style frocks. Add strong 80's shoulders for a further on-trend spin to this look.
Phillippa x

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Thursday 23 February 2017

Brit Awards 2017 - Red Carpet

Who was your best dressed at last night's BRIT Awards?...
1. Ellie Goulding - Philipp Plein
2. Abbey Clancy - Haider Ackermann
3. Katy Perry - Atelier Versace
4. Rita Ora - Alexandre Vauthier Couture
5. Pixie Lott - Julien Macdonald 
6. Neelam Gill - Galvan
7. Tallia Storm - Gucci
8. Leigh-Anne Pinock 
9. Doutzen Kroes - Louis Vuitton 
10. Natalia Vodianova - Givenchy 

I'm not entirely sure what went wrong on the red carpet at this year's Brit awards...but I really struggled to love any of the red carpet looks. OOT and 'try-hard' spring to mind, whilst other outfits were just a bit 'normal' for such a huge event. Thankfully, Katy Perry and Rita Ora were in attendance and managed to add some high fashion style to the proceedings.

For you, how does the Brit Awards red carpet line up compare to the Grammy's?

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
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Wednesday 22 February 2017

London Fashion Week - A/W 17 - Top 10

My top 10 review of LFW...
Mary Katrantzou
Disney's 'Fantasia' was the starting reference for Mary Katrantzou's latest collection. Not only citing the colour and visual aspects of the film, Katrantzou also acknowledged the decade in which the film was released - the 1940's. Striking digital prints in explosive colours, provided a backdrop for intense embellishment. Along with the more statement evening dresses, came much more wearable everyday pieces: knitted pullovers, tailored trousers and boxy houndstooth jackets. I also loved the use of mixing rich velvets into the collection.
J.W.Anderson
The designer has mastered the art of 'movement', evolving his brand each season whilst remaining true to the core of what his brand represents. Expertly using different materials, this season including chainmail, Anderson continues to experiment but the final result always looks sophisticated and well put together. Ostrich feathers cascaded from the hems of floral print dresses and mid length skirts. As always, draping is key to a J.W.Anderson collection and for Fall scoop necks were one of the main features. Bell skirts and zipped bustier tops added femininity.
Preen
Thea Bregazzi cited the suffragette movement as a point of direction for this collection, very apt given the recent Women's Marches. The collection overall was very OTT, with bold floral printed quilted jackets. Tulle was layered over dresses adding an extra dimension to the looks, but for me the standout pieces were the intricately ruffled jackets and shirts. The full collection was very cohesive and will certainly work well in editorials.
Peter Pilotto
Linton tweed jackets and embroidered riding boots were references to Christopher de Vos's Peruvian heritage. Ombre knitwear in navy, orange and olive provided a perfect Fall colour combination, and the loose silhouettes added a relaxed feel. The trend for oversized sleeves also shows no sign of slowing down, as most pieces in this collection came with long-length sleeves. Asymmetric hems and expressive hand-painted patterns were printed onto vibrant velvet.
Erdem
The Ottoman Empire, Sultans and 18th and 19th century women - all referenced by Erdem Moralioglu for A/W 17. Nods to Islamic art and traditional folk embroideries were rich and sophisticated. Luxurious fabrics including velvet, jacquard and lace provided a strong base for print and embellishment. There is always an element of 'costume' with an Erdem collection, but with such a distinct brand identity the finished result is always relevant.
Christopher Kane
Signature metallic pleated skirts were thrown into the mix, along with cross-over jackets constructed from decadent damasks. Spaceship prints adorned floor length dresses and were teamed with acidic yellow trainers. Oversized 3-D beaded flowers were appliqued onto silk and sequin dresses. The collection on the whole had a variety of daywear and evening pieces, which will be music to the ears of Kane's loyal devotee's.
Mulberry
Johnny Coca looked to the brands quintessential English heritage for his latest offering. Checks, capes, cable knits and pussy-bow blouses came in soft Autumnal colours and will be you go-to pieces for your Fall wardrobe. Beautifully draped dresses were classic Mulberry, whilst printed metallic pleated skirts were more contemporary. the floral prints were romantic and very wearable. Also worth mentioning is the statement oversized mono sunglasses.
Burberry
Christopher Bailey cited the work of artist and sculptor Henry Moore as the inspiration behind Burberry's AW17 collection.  Heralding from Yorkshire, the same as Bailey, Moore's use of 'form' was clear to see in this offering. The use of shirting and asymmetric cuts has been a huge global trend as of late, and Burberry's re-imagining of this look was stunning. Off-the-shoulder cable knits were slashed at the waist and layered over cotton and lace mix dresses with Elizabethan ruffles. Off beat Moore intarsia sweatshirts and prints added a unique spin on the collection, taking motifs that you wouldn't typically consider as 'fashion prints' and making them ever so desirable. Colours were clean and neutral. Overall, expertly executed and as always i'd like one of everything please!
Topshop Unique
90's bias-cut slip dresses were the order of the day at Topshop Unique, mixed with further 90's vibes in the form of zipped-up sweaters and slogan sweatshirts. Instead of going full on 90's street style, the collection remained feminine with ulta-pretty floral prints and flattering cuts. With this being a premium highstreet collection everything was super wearable with relevant pieces for both and night, and plenty of layering separates. 50% of the collection is available now on the see-now-buy-now structure which more and more brands are increasingly adopting.
Joseph
This collection was evident that the 'Vetements' effect is widely being felt within the fashion industry. Oversized silhouettes looked like a masculine uniform, but still had feminine undertones. the delicately embroidered body worn under a leather suit. there was also an element of the undone about the collection - frayed hems.,raw edges and noticeable stitches. the hot pink/olive green colour combo was also on point for Fall.

My Milan fashion week report will be posted next week.

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
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Monday 20 February 2017

Brand to Know - Rockins

Do skinny scarves get much cooler than Rockins? Most likely I think the answer is a resounding no. Launching in 2014, and founded by artist/musician Tim Rockins and marketing director Jess Morris, Rockins delivers a contemporary take on the classic 1920's bias-cut skinny scarf. Paying homage to the sartorial choices of icons such as David Bowie, Keith Richards and my personal favourite Anita Pallenberg, Rockins is the ultimate choice if you are looking to add some rock 'n' roll vibes into your wardrobe. I'm all about incorporating 60's and 70's inspiration into my outfits, and with a background in print design you can see why I loved this brand the second I saw the scarves. With prints ranging from florals to feathers, lips to psychedelic paisleys - whichever design you opt for it will add a cool edge to your look. I have the 'Rose Leopard' fringed skinny scarf in gold, and my preferred way to style it is with my vintage Pink Floyd t-shirt and leopard print Equipment shirt, teamed with either skinny jeans or a-line mini skirt - the ultimate day to night ensemble. These unisex scarves are, however, super versatile - you don't just have to wear them the traditional way. Wrap around a fedora to wear as festival attire, tie around jeans to style as a belt or even loop around the handle of a bag to accessorise your favourite tote. Rockins has also recently launched a mainline ready to wear collection including: denim jackets, silk shirts, jeans and tees, as well as a range of lux interior products. 
Stockists include: Net-a-Porter, Harvey Nichols, Avenue 32, Selfridges, Beyman and Boutique1

Phillippa x 

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Saturday 18 February 2017

New York Fashion Week - A/W 17 - Top 10

Where does the time go??? New York fashion week is already over for another season. As the first fashion week of the A/W 17 season has just drawn to a close, and as I do each season, I will be reviewing my Top 10 collections from each city. Starting with NYFW...
Calvin Klein
Raf Simons made his debut at the helm of the brand this season and his long awaited collection was well received. Sharp tailored pieces, in bold primary colours, were very commercially viable and played on an 'Americana' theme along with cowboy boots. Classic wardrobe staples were also present, with suit jackets and relaxed trousers featuring heavily. Oversized geometric prints added an extra dimension to the collection whilst beautifully delicate ostrich feather / organza dresses  and jacquard separates were amongst the standout pieces.
Sies Marjan
Fluidity is one of the key words that comes to mind with a Sies Marjan collection, second to the importance of colour. Liquid silk dresses with trailing hems were ultra feminine with a slight sporty feel at the same time. Ruched panels on dresses were a welcome addition, whilst the use of metallic fabrics created some exciting evening pieces. Hot fuchsia dresses stood out against a backdrop of calm softer tones. Fast becoming of of NYFW's most sought after shows.
Public School
Like many designers, Dao-Yi Chow and Maxwell Osborne opted to make a political statement with their collection. Slogans such as "Make America New York" and "We Need Leaders' were emblazoned on caps and Strong 90's street style vibes, oversized proportions and quilted jackets, were seen throughout. The theme of deconstruction was present with cropped knits, which looked as though they had been torn, and tartan jackets with unzipped sleeves.
Proenza Schouler
Sliced dresses have become somewhat of a signature for the brand, and once again this season the offerings were technically brilliant. Strong layered looks and bold colours created impact. A genius intarsia knit dress, which looked to have an abstract pattern, was in fact a reimagined version of of the brands logo. Lacquered shearling coats and pants will be a 'must have' look for Fall. From next season, the brand will be showing during the Couture schedule in Paris.
Prabal Gurung
Emphasis was on dresses with silk button fastenings, as it has been for the past few seasons at the brand. Chunky knitted sweaters were some of the best seen in New York this season, these were layered over long-sleeved delicately printed dresses. Camo fur intarsia's were statement pieces, and the loose hand-painted floral prints added a nice injection of colour. Coloured tights might just catch on for next season as well, as we did these during the Pre Fall presentations.
Milly
'Fractured' was the title of Michelle Smith's A/W 17 offering. If you follow Michelle's instagram you will know that she was loyal supporter of Hilary Clinton and the Womens March that followed shortly after Trump's inauguration. Given all of this, Smith was reflecting on this time of change whilst designing her collection. Championing the use of 'shirting' the past few seasons, Smith continued this with button-down mens shirts and trailing statement sleeves. Knotted and ripped knits were particularly good especially when teamed with leather pants and sneakers.
Monse
More signature shirting techniques from the design duo, Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia. They showed their Monse collection directly before their debut collection for Oscar de la Renta. The term 'twisted tailoring' has been coined to describe their favoured technique which they use on dresses and shirts. Power shirts. with ruffled collars. looked 'tough' worn under structured blazers and waists were cinched in with studded leather belts. The sequined gowns which closed the show were inspired by the artist Pat Steir, and had the effect of dripping paint.
Diane von Furstenberg
Jonathan Saunders continued to explore the brands love of all things textiles - colour, print and texture. Loosely draped silk wrap dresses came in rich Fall colours with easy on the eye subtle prints. Scarf hems were also a popular choice for evening dresses, as were sequins and paillettes. Accessories matched this theme, with hooped necklaces and bag charms. Oversized fur coats added an extra element of luxe to this charming collection...I want one of everything!
Victoria Beckham
Pairing blazers with midi skirts was a key look for the Victoria Beckham show, coming in suitably appropriate Fall colours - burgundy and navy. More tartan, which was seen on jackets creating a rather English feel tot he collection. The trend for sporty zip-up dresses and jackets, shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon, Beckham showed both. Graphic abstract prints were inspired by a Paul Nash exhibition at the Tate Britain. Easy tailoring made for a very wearable collection.
3.1 Phillip Lim
The artist James Turrell's work inspired a beautiful soft print in hues of pink and purple. This print was paired with Yves Klein blue dresses and suits, all cut in empowering silhouettes. Overall the collection was romantic with hints of subtle sexuality in the form of leather corsets layered over mesh tops. The macro trend for oversized quilted jackets was also present, belted at the waist with tough metal hoops. Silk metallic boots completed the look.

Stay tuned...I will be posting my LFW review on Wednesday.

Phillippa x

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Wednesday 15 February 2017

On Trend Now - Chainmail

I don't know about you, but I adore the old archive pictures of Francoise Hardy back in the 70's wearing a Paco Rabanne chainmail jumpsuit - one word: Iconic. That's why I'm loving the chainmail revival that is happening at the moment. There is something so luxe and high fashion about this look, and yet it evokes a vintage vibe at the same time. The material lends itself perfectly to being draped in numerous different ways, which can create some very flattering silhouettes. Over on the runway, Balmain are reigning supreme with their modern use of this metallic material - slip dresses and wrap dresses reimagined with a major modern update. Mary Katranzou took this trend one step further and printed onto the metal, which at first glance was so genius it did not even look like chainmail. Philipp Plein put a 90's spin on things by pairing chainmail with quilted denim and some serious bling.
A new wave of models, many of Victoria's Secret fame,  have really taken to this trend opting to wear risque chainmail numbers to events and parties. And where there's glitz and glam, the Kardashians follow - Kim, Kourtney, Kendall and Kylie are regularly spotted wearing a daring chainmail dress or bralet as the case may be (see Kourtney Kardashian for reference). But its not just your mainstream red carpet style queens who wear chainmail. Last year former First Lady Michelle Obama stunned wearing a floor length rose gold chainmail Versace gown to a State dinner - the fashion world was left in awe of her showstopping outfit, which she wore with such grace and elegance. Ranging from edgy to classic, see below for styling inspiration...
And now for those throwback pictures...Francoise Hardy is seen here sporting two iconic Paco Rabanne outfits during the height of her fame. A true icon, who nailed this look long before others did. And whilst Balmain might have been championing chainmail the past couple of seasons, the brand has a long standing history of using this material. Back in the late 00's when Christophe Decarnin was at the helm of the French brand, he created several looks using chainmail (most notably SS10) - well afterall he did start his career at Paco Rabanne...

Phillippa x

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Monday 13 February 2017

GRAMMY Awards 2017 - Red Carpet

The 59th Annual Grammy Awards took place last night at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles. Take a look at what the stars wore to attend this star studded event...
1. Rihanna - Armani Prive
2. Katy Perry - Tom Ford
3. Adele - Givenchy A/W 16 Couture
4. Demi Lovato - Julien Macdonald
5. Solange - Gucci
6. Celine Dion - Zuhair Murad
7. Carrie Underwood - Elie Madi
8. Chrissy Teigen - Roberto Cavalli SS17
9. Jennifer Lopez - Ralph and Russo
10. Beyonce - custom Peter Dundas
11. Lea Michele - Roberto Cavalli
12. Camila Cabello - Miri Couture

Who was your best dressed?

Phillippa x

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Sunday 12 February 2017

BAFTA'S 2017 - Red Carpet

The 70th annual BAFTA'S are taking place tonight in London at the Royal Albert Hall. Take a look at a selection of the best red carpet looks. Which was your favourite?
1. Anya Taylor-Joy - Gucci
2. Emily Blunt - Alexander McQueen
3. Sophie Turner - Louis Vuitton
4. Emma Stone - Chanel
5. Naomie Harris - Gucci
6. Thandie Newton - Osman Pre Fall 17
7. Penelope Cruz
8. The Duchess of Cambridge - Alexander McQueen
9. Felicity Jones - Christian Dior SS17
10. Nicole Kidman - Armani Prive
11. Michelle Williams - Louis Vuitton SS17
12. Amy Adams - Tom Ford

Phillippa x

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Saturday 11 February 2017

Pre Fall 17 - Part 5

The final part of my Pre Fall 17 report series...
Off-White
'Global Warming' Concept, Streetwear, Shirting, Artist - Pablo Tomek, Patent, Bias Cut, Eyelets
Paul and Joe
Expressive Florals, Chunky Knitwear, Layering, Denim, Youthful Styling, Slip Dresses
Sacai
Paisley, Pleats, Military Detailing, Lace Collars, Cut-Up, Oversized Sleeves, Earthy Colours
Francesco Scognamiglio
Trailed Ruffles, Fetish, Lace Detail, Pussybow Collars, Rose Print, Confidence, Bustier, Sporty 
Sonia Rykiel
Raw Edges, Crushed Velvet, Tassels, Midi Skirts, Leather, Striped Shirting, Fur, Sequins
Miu Miu
Vintage, Cable Knit, 1940's, Tweed, Corduroy, Baseball Caps, Fur, Oversized Silhouettes
Each x Other
Cascading Ruffles, Motorcycle Pants, Modern Silhouettes, Lace Inserts, Spliced, Hoodies, Street
Fausto Puglisi
Power Dressing, Shearling, Tropical Prints, Mini Skirts, Colourblocking, Thigh-Splits, Fur Belts
Andrew Gn
Historical, Gilded, Fortuny, Bell Sleeves, Renaissance, Folkloric, Patchwork Print, Crafted, Fringing
Zuhair Murad
80's, Liquid Silk, Jewel-Tones, Kimono Robes, Chinese Art, Blurred Tropicals, Asymmetric Ruffles
Milly
Deconstructed Shirting, Feather Trims, Contemporary, Open-Back, Trackpants, Knots, Leather

This concludes my Pre Fall 17 report series. 

If luxury fashion is your thing, then be sure to follow my blog as I will be posting reviews from New York, London, Milan and Paris fashion week. Following this will be a series of A/W 17 trend reports. I will also be posting all the best looks from the A/W 17 collections over on my Pinterest so be sure to head over there as well (details below).

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
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Wednesday 8 February 2017

Get The Look - Kate Bosworth - Denim

Kate Bosworth rarely puts a foot wrong in the style stakes, consistently wearing on trend street style looks. Her high fashion/meets highstreet wardrobe has a super laid back vibe, perfect for everyday. Denim is Kate's fail-safe outfit choice, see below for how you can get her look...
Outfit 1
A pair of kick flares shows a strong reference to the 70's, whilst a chainmail scarf adds a 90's vibe. Add a killer pair of patent platform boots and 'geek-chic' backpack for ultimate street style kudos.
Outfit 2
A pair of loose denim culottes work well with a chambray shirt. This creates the ultimate relaxed Californian summer look. A mini box bag and pointed flats complete the look.
Outfit 3
Dressing up the current pyjama shirt trend with a pair of skinny jeans, heels and iconic aviators. A lesson in how to elevate your jeans to make them appropriate for evening attire.
Outfit 4
A denim shirtdress is a wardrobe staple. Easy to accessorise for both day and night, and with more of those 70's references. Team with suede for a vintage inspired look.
Phillippa x

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