Wednesday 31 May 2017

S/S 17 Trend To Shop - Ruffles

Does a Spring trend get prettier or more feminine than ruffles? Stemming from the recent Victoriana trend for high ruffled collars, this season ruffles shift elsewhere on the silhouette. Cascading ruffled sleeves were a key look at Burberry and Loewe, whilst over at Chloe and House of Holland they were layered on mini dresses. Despite this being a Spring trend, fabrics were not always typically lightweight. McQueen opted for leather, Erdem for tweed - showing that this trend will likely be trans-seasonal and carry through to your Fall wardrobe.
For this edit however, I have kept things suitably appropriate for hot summer days and your holiday wardrobe selecting pieces in lightweight fabrics. If you are looking to emulate all the enviable street style looks as seen on Instagram, then I would opt for a blue shirt. Classic enough to wear to the office, stylish enough to style for the evening. Gingham is also a great way to combine two major trends in one, so if you are after a more statement outfit this will be your best bet. Whether you are shopping at a high or low price point for this trend there are plenty of options out there...
1. H&M £34.99 / 2. Topshop £125 / 3. New Look £24.99
4. Topshop £32 / 5. H&M £34.99 / 6. Caroline Constas £550
7. River Island £35 / 8. Diane Von Furstenberg £230 / 9. BooHoo £20

If ruffles are your thing, head over to my Pinterest where I have an entire board dedicated to this must-have seasonal trend! (details below)

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Tuesday 30 May 2017

Cannes Film Festival 2017 - Red Carpet

That's a wrap! The Cannes Film Festival has drawn to a close for 2017. With so many incredible red carpet looks at this years event, here is a look at 10 of the best/most memorable...
1. Uma Thurman - Atelier Versace
2. Bella Hadid - Christian Dior
3. Diane Kruger - Christian Dior
4. Elle Fanning - Christian Dior
5. Jourdan Dunn - Elie Saab
6. Julianne Moore - Givenchy
7. Elizabeth Olsen - Miu Miu
8. Elle Fanning - Vivienne Westwood
9. Jessica Chastain - Givenchy
10. Kendall Jenner - Giambattista Valli

For me, the star of this years festival was Elle Fanning. With the help of her stylist, Samantha McMillen, Elle graced the red carpet in countless showstopping gowns including highlights from: Vivienne Westwood, Christian Dior, Rodarte and Gucci. Each look was flawless.

Who was your best dressed?

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Monday 29 May 2017

A/W 17 Trend Report - Rich Red

Rich shades of red emerged as the front runner for the most used colour of the season. Seen on the runway in all four fashion week cities, and coming in a multitude of differentiating shades, red made a big sartorial impact on the runway. It's a given that red is appropriate for A/W, being easily paired with black for an appropriate seasonal colour combo. Neil Barrett showcased the most stunning scarlet velvet dress, whilst Redemption went for skin tight red rouge leather dresses with a distinct 80's feel to them. We also saw layering of different shades of red. Over at Preen long sleeved sequined tops were worn underneath draped dresses, whilst Max Mara styled velvet and fur pieces together. Above all else, the key to nailing this trend is to go head-to-toe in red.        
Key Designers: Alexander McQueen, Chloe, Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Prada, Roksanda, Versace

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Saturday 27 May 2017

Brand To Know - Tramp in Disguise

Fashion brand 'Tramp In Disguise' was established in 2010 by designer Sini Moilanen. Having studied at both the University of Brighton and the Royal College of Art, Sini designs her collections with a strong focus on both colour and print. Each of the seasonal collections features a variety of different silhouettes, proportions and texture - resulting in an eye-catching and diverse array of daywear and eveningwear pieces. Many of the prints are fun and playful, featuring motifs such as insects and fish. These are definitely the kind of garments you want in your wardrobe if you love to make an impact with your style - they are conversation starters for sure! Tramp In Disguise has featured in countless editorials and been worn by a number of celebrities including: Jessie J, Charli XCX and Kimberly Wyatt. Shop online at www.trampindisguise.com
Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Wednesday 24 May 2017

Billboard Music Awards - Red Carpet

The 2017 Billboard Music Awards took place in Las Vegas on Sunday 21st May, hosted by Vanessa Hudgens and Ludacris. Who was your best dressed at this event...
Vanessa Hudgens - Marchesa
Celine Dion - Stephane Rolland
Hailee Steinfeld - David Koma
Kate Beckinsale - Zuhair Murad
Rita Ora - Francesco Scognamiglio
Miley Cyrus - Alessandra Rich
Camila Cabelo - Jonathan Simkhai
Olivia Munn - Redemption
Rachel Platten - Barbara Bui
Lea Michele - Jonathan Simkhai

My Best Dressed
Hailee Steinfeld wearing David Koma - This total look had just the right amount of sex appeal whilst still being edgy at the same time. Perfect for an event like the BMA's.

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign


Monday 22 May 2017

A/W 17 Trend Report - Space Silver

Whilst metallic's for Fall are nothing new, I mean who doesn't love to wear a shimmery little number during party season?, this Fall metallic's have a distinct space age feel to them. After seeing countless designers embracing this theme during fashion month, Chanel pulled out all the stops and quite literally constructed a NASA worthy set inside the Grand Palais in Paris. If there was ever any doubt as to whether or not this trend would catch on, our doubts were instantly quashed. Silver was seen on many different silhouettes and several different fabrics: leather, plisse, chainmail, quilting, sequins - you name it the designers worked with it. Balenciaga and Christopher Kane opted for super modern tech fabrics, the later also incorporating an iridescent finish. Saint Laurent and Gucci went for silver mesh, creating a somewhat more revealing approach to the trend. Going all out on this trend, Comme des Garcons and Chanel showcased over the top quilted jackets - delivering standout pieces with maximum impact that were impossible to miss.
Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Saturday 20 May 2017

S/S 17 Footwear Trend - Pool Sliders

I'm going to use that word again...Athleisure. There is simply no escaping it, from one season to the next this trend is sticking around! So when it comes to sporty footwear, one style which has become ever so popular is the humble pool slider...yes really. You know something is going to be huge when Givenchy design a pair with their name branded across it. Whilst you can get more stylish leather sliders (aka the loafer), the core of this trend is about the rubber version - quite literally what you would wear around the pool on holiday, except these are intended for everyday wear. Make no mistake, this is not really a sophisticated choice of footwear, don't expect this pair of sliders to be hanging around in your closet for years to come. It will most likely be a seasonal trend which in a couple of years we look back on and think "really, did that trend actually happen?". But hey, a trend is a trend and where the catwalk leads the rest will follow. So put aside your classic gladiator sandal and inject some a pool sliders into your life....the celebs can't get enough of them. The Kardashians, the Hadid's and the Olsen's - they love them!
Depending on whether you want to invest high or low in this trend, this edit has you covered. Some designers have taken this look one step further and feminised the trend by adding embellishments, printed motifs and even faux fur. If you want to keep things pretty basic, then I recommend you go old school and opt for a pair of standard sporty slides - think Adidas and Fila. The trend for slogans is also huge this season, so a classic branded pair will make your look even more trend driven without breaking the bank. And when this 'sliders as daywear' trend passes, retire your sliders to a life of chilling by the pool on holiday.
Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Wednesday 17 May 2017

How To Style...Hooded Sweatshirts

Championed on the runway by Vetements, Off-White and Balenciaga the hooded sweatshirt is officially one of the biggest sartorial statements you can make this season. Not typically viewed as the most feminine of pieces, styling one of these hoodies results in an off-beat sporty outfit. In this styling edit I have selected a cobalt hoodie from Balenciaga and shown you how you can style it in 3 different ways. As always these are just suggestions, cheaper alternatives can be readily found...
Outfit 1
The kick flare is a big look for Spring 17, overtaking the boyfriend jean as a preferred style of denim trouser. Frayed hems are also huge at the moment, so this pair from Topshop tick all the right boxes. Another styling trick, also seen at Balenciaga, is the oversized check blazer. Wear over a hoodie for the ultimate on trend layering piece. Cut-off kick flares can shorten your body, so lengthen your proportions by styling with an ankle-skimming pair of pointed boots. This mock croc pair from Next are a total steal at only £38. A classic tote with contrasting strap from Off-White and d-frame sunnies from Saint Laurent complete this fashion forward look.
Outfit 2
Patent is another key trend this season, so a black patent mini was a must for this outfit. I adore this white denim jacket from Maggie Marilyn, the flared sleeves once again tying another trend into this look. This also makes a great alternative to your standard light-washed denim jacket. I am loving the blue/red colour combo at the moment, so this pair of killer pointed toe boots from Gucci are music to my ears. They elevate this look from sporty to something a little more 'put together'. A tote from Topshop finishes the outfit.
Outfit 3
For this 3rd and final outfit I went more along the lines of the athleisure trend. Checked paperbag waist trousers from Topshop strike the perfect balance between sporty and classic - these would also be perfect to wear to work. The monochrome leather jacket is one of the most coveted pieces of the season, and it works perfectly teamed with classic Adidas superstar trainers. These are a 90's design classic, and the 90's trend is huge at the moment. A Loewe 'puzzle' bag in red adds quirk to the outfit and the Topshop sunnies throwback to that monochrome theme.
Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Monday 15 May 2017

A/W 17 Trend Report - Star Motifs

The 'Americana' trend has been hanging around for a few seasons now. You may remember Marc Jacobs all out 'Americana' themed collection for S/S 16 - with stars and stripes galore. Then for Pre-Fall 17 the trend re-emerged but with a comic book spin on things, throwing graphic symbols and comic book iconography into the mix. So it comes as no surprise that 'Star Motifs' were a key trend as seen on the A/W 17 runway. Henry Holland delivered a knockout collection featuring bold star prints emblazoned proudly on dresses, jackets and cowboy boots. Mugler delivered a dose of David Bowie with one shoulder embellished cut-out star dresses. The perfect evening mini dress if I ever did see one. The Starman would approve! Putting a further spin on the look, Nina Ricci added illustrations of rodeo riders into the mix, but kept away from the Americana colours for a more everyday wearable look. Tods also toned down the colours to keep things a little more sophisticated. 
Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Saturday 13 May 2017

Menswear Brand To Know - Prevu London

Launching in May 2015, Prevu is a contemporary menswear label founded by Jake Hall, Tom Lipop and Eser Aydemir. Based in Hackney, the brand manufactures in both London and Istanbul using the best quality fabrics from England, Japan and Italy. Prevu aspires to design a modern take on the 'suit' for a younger audience - with outerwear, t-shirts and shorts becoming classic pieces in the wardrobe of a fashion savvy young man. Tailoring is relaxed but the emphasis on style and quality is clear to see, with the clean aesthetic creating the perfect balance between smart/casual.
Here is my pick of the best pieces from the brand's current collection. Price Range: £29 - £190 Available to shop online at www.prevu.london
Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign22

Wednesday 10 May 2017

Eyewear Trend - Mono Lens Sunglasses

Undoubtedly one of the biggest eyewear trends of the season - the mono lens. After being seen on the runway, this trend has really been championed by celebrities, stars of the sidewalk whose style we lust over. Popular styles include: aviators, rounds and shields. With social media playing a huge influence on global fashion trends, everyone is looking to take the perfect summer selfie, and the celebs seem to have found a friend in the form of these mono lens sunglasses - Bella, Gigi and Kendall are rarely seen without a pair. Regardless of the shape of the sunglasses, the lightly coloured lens feminises the overall look...whilst looking ultra cool at the same time. 
Whilst this may not be your average everyday 'go-to' eyewear style, they do make for the perfect accessory for summer festivals and holidays if you are looking to liven up your wardrobe. This edit shows you some of the best designer and high street styles currently available...
If you love eyewear then be sure to follow my Sunglasses/Eyewear board over on my Pinterest (details below). On here you will find a vast selection of classic and quirky eyewear styles from the runway, with plenty of great vintage styles thrown in for reference.

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Monday 8 May 2017

A/W 17 Trend Report - Desert Neutral

Following on from the Safari trend which I have already mentioned for A/W 17, the calm and serene colours continue with the 'Desert Neutral' trend. Liquid silk dresses are beautifully draped and skim the body with  precision. The blush colours have a sandy undertone to them reflecting the earthy palettes captured within nature. Pairing two of these neutrals together results in an ultra feminine take on colour blocking (as seen at Tome and Sies Marjan). New York based brand Milly added soft texture into the look, whilst Prabal Gurung went for elongated bell sleeves hence throwing another key trend into the frame. This is the colour choice of the season for those refusing to bow down to the dark nights and cooler weather. Any pieces you invest in will also transition well into S/S18.

Phillippa x 

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign22

Saturday 6 May 2017

Outfit of The Month - May

An easy breezy shirt from A.W.A.K.E makes for the perfect wardrobe staple for Spring. Shirts are classic basics to own, and translate effortlessly from day to night depending on the styling. This pinstriped option is ideal to be worn to the office, but also works well for a nonchalant weekend outfit. Frayed hems on denim separates are all the rage atm, with this light-washed mini skirt from Frame being a great investment piece. Inspired by Gucci, this embroidered leather jacket from Topshop is a cute Spring style. Whilst Gucci opted for colourful embroidery and bold motifs, this Topshop number has feminine blooms in pastel shades. I have teamed the outfit with a killer pair of pointed ankle boots from Dorateymur. Whilst I would typically pair with a Chelsea or cowboy boot, I wanted a style that would elongate the leg, and a pointed toe/slim heel combo does this trick! Accessorising the outfit I have opted for a blush coloured clutch from Topshop and a grey tort pair of acetate sunglasses from the Olivia Palermo X Westward Leaning collection. The rose gold mirror lens ties in perfectly with the detail on the jacket.
Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign22

Wednesday 3 May 2017

Met Gala 2017 - HUGE Red Carpet Review

The theme of this year's Met Gala, to coincide with the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute exhibition, was 'Rei Kawakubo/ Comme des Garcons. As ever, the stars hit the red carpet in an array of jaw-dropping and spectacular gowns. Here is a HUGE review of who wore what...
Haley Bennett - Dolce and Gabbana / Brie Larson - Chanel / Blake Lively - Versace
Kylie Jenner - Versace / Julianne Moore - Calvin Klein
Gisele Bundchen - Stella McCartney / Cara Delevingne - Chanel
Kendall Jenner - La Perla / Bella Hadid - Alexander Wang
Diane Kruger - Prada / Chrissy Teigen - Marchesa / Ruby Rose - Burberry
Sophie Turner - Louis Vuitton / Janelle Monae - Ralph and Russo
Ruth Negga - Valentino / Stella Maxwell - H&M / Lily James - Burberry
Selena Gomez - Coach / Adwoa Aboah - Conner Ives
Kim Kardashian - Vivienne Westwood / Behati Prinsloo - Topshop / Lily Aldridge - Ralph Lauren Kate Hudson - Stella McCartney / Gwyneth Paltrow - Calvin Klein
Miranda Kerr - Oscar de la Renta / Ashley Graham - H&M
Rita Ora - Marchesa / Katy Perry - Maison Margiela
Rose Byrne - Ralph Lauren / Emma Roberts - DVF / Thandie Newton - Monse
Natasha Poly - Michael Kors / Joan Smalls - Topshop
Lupita Nyong'o - Prada / Zoe Kravitz - Oscar de la Renta / Lily-Rose Depp - Chanel
Maggie Gyllenhaal - Marni / Emily Ratajkowski - Marc Jacobs
Lauren Santo Domingo / Dakota Johnson - Gucci / Kate Bosworth - Tory Burch
Solange Knowles - Thom Browne / Celine Dion - Versace
Candice Swanepoel - Topshop / Halle Berry - Versace
Naomi Watts - Stella McCartney / Hailee Steinfeld - Vera Wang / Riley Keough - Louis Vuitton
Amy Schumer - Zac Posen / Alexa Chung - DVF
Elizabeth Banks - Michael Kors / Dree Hemingway - DVF / Kerry Washington - Michael Kors
Jourdan Dunn - H&M / Daisy Ridley - Oscar de la Renta
Emmy Rossum - Carolina Herrera / Allison Williams - DVF
Elle Fanning - Miu Miu / Jessica Chastain - Prada / Felicity Jones - Erdem
Gigi Hadid - Tommy Hilfiger / Jennifer Lopez - Valentino
Claire Foy - Erdem / Madonna - Moschino
Zendaya Coleman - Dolce and Gabbana / Rihanna - Comme des Garcons
Reese Witherspoon - Mugler / Katie Holmes - Zac Posen / Sarah Paulson - Prada
Hailey Baldwin  - Carolina Herrera / Lily Collins - Giambattista Valli

Best Dressed
1.  Rihanna wearing Comme des Garcons - Rihanna always fully commits to the theme of the Met Gala, never afraid to push boundaries. Whilst this dress may not be the most practical, it fully embraces the theme and for that Rihanna has to be applauded.
2. Blake Lively wearing Versace - Blake always has a good run on the red carpet, rarely putting a foot wrong. This stunning gown by Versace was breathtaking, with the bright blue feathers creating a jaw-dropping red carpet moment.
3. Cara Delevingne wearing Chanel - For me, the Met Gala is always about creating memorable red carpet moments. Whilst many guests opt to wear gowns, Cara went for an exquisite embellished suit from Chanel and therefore stood out from the crowd. 
4. Lily Aldridge wearing Ralph Lauren. Ok, so the dress itself may be a pretty standard cut-out red carpet dress but the killer Balenciaga boots completely elevated this look. I love that she wasn't afraid to add a seriously dramatic pop of colour to create a daring look.
5. Lily Collins wearing Giambattista Valli - Like Rihanna, Lily fully committed to the theme. This ruffled tiered gown had layers of volume and the cinched in waist / bodice combination created impact. Dramatic hair and makeup completed the look.

Who was your best dressed?

All these looks, plus more, can be found on my 'Celebrity -Red Carpet' over on my Pinterest (details below).

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippa22
Pinterest - phillippadesign

Monday 1 May 2017

A/W 17 Trend Report - Racing Vibes

Unleash your inner racing car driver with this season's updated take on athleisure. High impact racing stripes were branded boldly across midriff baring crop tops and super short mini skirts. Rihanna's Fenty X Puma collection was all about those sporty vibes, with luxe daywear pieces intended for those wishing to flash the flesh. Over at Tommy Hilfiger, the Gigi Hadid designed collection went down a storm mixing the models off duty street style look with a strong sporty edge. French brand Zadig et Voltaire went all out with Formula One style racing leather pants, with spliced blocks of patriotic colours. Versace completed the nod to racing with oversized quilted jackets (one trend which doesn't seem to be going anywhere anytime soon) and teamed this look with mono lens sports sunglasses. Key Colours: Red, Blue, Yellow
Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22
Instagram - phillippadesign
Pinterest - phillippadesign22