PreFall 16 Print Trend - Soft Oriental



Orientals for PreFall16 came in different forms. This take on Orientals, is soft and feminine. Staying true to original Japanese art, delicate blossom sits alongside wispy stems and paintings of cranes. The two main designers who embraced this look for PreFall16 were Valentino and Philosophy, whilst a past season Armani collection also ties the theme together nicely. What I particularly like about this trend is that it encompasses the Pantone colours for 2016: Serenity and Rose Quartz. If you are looking for a timeless, ultra feminine print trend then this is for you.

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22



Shoe of the Season - Clogs

Not typically known as the most attractive looking shoe, clogs have made a massive comeback lately, and with the likes of Gucci offering up a fur trimmed version this trend shows no sign of slowing down. Traditionally worn in factories and mines, and also associated with folklore and certain forms of dance, clogs are a wooden shoe with an open back and platform sole.

Celebrities including: Leandra Medine, Chloe Sevigny, Florence Welch, Kate Bosworth and Elle Fanning are all fans of this shoe style. See here for styling inspiration and a selection of the best new season clogs from the luxury market. Would you dare to wear a pair of clogs?

1. Coach £250 / 2. Gucci £564 / 3. Robert Clergerie £445

4. Sam Edelman £120 / 5. See by Chloe £260 / 6. No.6 Store £225

 

For more footwear inspiration, follow my 'Shoes and Boots' board on Pinterest (details below).

 

Phillippa x

 

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22

 



Outfit of The Month - March

A long-sleeved dress in a lightweight fabric is perfect for March. The weather is finally beginning to brighten up, but there can still be a chill in the air. This dress from Topshop Unique has a great photographic flower print, which due to the sheer fabric is not too overpowering. Wanting to make the look a little edgier, I have teamed with a cool pair of leather boots from Saint Laurent. The floral prints ties the look nicely to the dress and gives the overall look a slightly more feminine feel. Completing the outfit, I have opted for a classic 'Alexa' bag from Mulberry.

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22



S/S16 Colour - Yellow & Blue

It was the most prominent colour combo seen on the SS16 runway - Blue and Yellow. Seen on the runway in all four cities, there was no escaping this fresh summery colour palette. Largely taking the form of colour-blocking, the use of these two colours came in an array of different silhouettes, garments, fabrics and even print. A bold choice from head-to-toe, yellow is not considered the easiest of colours to wear but add a rich blue into the mix and it balances out the overall look. All in all, the perfect colour combo for summer. Key Designers: Tommy Hilfiger, Victoria Beckham, Stella McCartney, Marni, Missoni and Sportmax

Phillippa x

 

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22

Pre Fall 16 Trend - Pleats

Metallic pleats were a big deal for PreFall16. Everyone from Max Mara to Gucci, Christopher Kane to Valentino showcased pleated skirts which made a big sartorial statement. Whether it be gold or silver, or a colourful metallic shade, this trend has all bases covered. A classic pleated skirt is easy to wear and can be styled for both day and night. Don't think that because it is metallic it can't be worn to work, in fact it would probably look even more stylish if it was worn during the day. Taking note from the PreFall16 collections, the length can be ankle grazing or just below the knee. Keep styling simple, team with a classic shirt or basic knit. One of the best things about this trend, is that you need not wait until Fall to wear this look. There are so many great metallic pleated skirts already available now across different market levels. I have put together this edit featuring some of the best pleated skirts currently available. Happy Shopping!

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22

The Best of Luxury Print

I'm a magpie when it comes to print and colour, and there are so many luxury brands who are known for their penchant of both the aforementioned things. Dolce and Gabbana have their signature red florals, Etro their paisley's, Marni their graphic flowers, Matthew Williamson his tropicals, Mary Katrantzou her engineered prints and of course Emilio Pucci have their own unique style.  Whilst luxury brands still need to design prints with wide commercial potential, they do not need to follow the same constraints as high-street retailers (who can be restricted by the number of colours they can print).   I thought I would put together this edit to show you the key designers to know, who use print each season,  if you are looking to invest is some statement luxury prints to brighten up your wardrobe. These garments show the style of prints you can expect from these brands...



1. Mary Katrantzou - £1755 / 2. Marni - £710 / 3. Temperley London - £895

4. Etro - £270 / 5. Dolce & Gabbana - £325 / 6. Emilio Pucci - £450

7. Milly - £225 / 8. Peter Pilotto - £1100 / 9. Matthew Williamson - £425

 

For more prints, follow my 'Printed Garments' board on Pinterest (details below).

 

Phillippa x

 

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - @phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22





*Collaboration* - Rodarte X & Other Stories

Another major designer collaboration is about to hit the highstreet - Rodarte X & Other Stories. The sister design duo behind Rodarte, Laura and Kate Mulleavy, have teamed up with the Scandinavian retailer to create a capsule collection with plenty of sartorial prowess. After the collaboration was announced back in October, the hype around this collab has grown rapidly. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Rodarte this year, this collection offers the LA brand the perfect opportunity to translate their unique design aesthetic to a more commercial market.

I have been a long time fan of Rodarte ever since I saw Karlie Kloss making her way along the SS09 runway in a stunning purple and blue ombre dress. Therefore I am particularly excited about this new collaboration. In recent seasons, Rodarte have used lots of metallic fabrics, lace and leather - and this has been referenced in this new collection. I have put together an edit featuring my favourite pieces from the collection, which consists of apparel, shoes and jewellery. I am seriously lusting after the partchwork mini skirt, ankle boots and suede biker jacket. Rodarte X & Other Stories is available from March 17th.

If you are looking for further reasons to invest in this collection, then take a look at how Chloe Sevigny, Selena Gomez, Dakota Fanning and Riley Keough  have styled some of the key pieces to great effect. How would you style the Rodarte X & Other Stories collection?

Phillippa x

 

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22

 

 



Paris Fashion Week - A/W16 - Top 10

Here is my Top 10 runway review from Paris Fashion Week...

Louis Vuitton

Nicholas Ghesquiere continued his reign at the helm of LV with this incredible A/W collection. The concept behind the collection - a Tomb Raider like character who discovers an archaeological site. The full collection had a distinct athletic vibe to it with sculptured leather jackets, baseball sweatshirts and colour-blocked tube dresses. Leather pants in black and red were paired with laced combat boots. Archive scarf prints featured on silk skirts and dresses with leather trims. This is one of my favourite A/W collections from this season.

Chloe

Clare Waight Keller referenced Anne-France Dautherville as her inspiration for A/W16. Dautherville travelled across Europe in the 70's on a motorbike, and when you think about it making her the most perfect Chloe muse. Chloe embodies the free-spirited and festival girl chic look, contrasting against the fast-paced tech world that we live in. There were signature Chloe frills, statement coloured knitwear and pretty boho dresses. It was a dream from start to finish and the neck scarves are sure to be a key look next season.

Kenzo

Maximalism was the order of the day at Kenzo. Japanese anime was a point of reference, notable in the puffed sleeve shirts and A-line mini skirts. Fabric was manipulated into tight pleats and was also ruffled on billowing silhouettes.  Prints were on PVC dresses and florals/checks/animal skins were all patched together creating an eclectic look.

Givenchy

Ricardo Tisci took cited Egypt as a source of inspiration for his A/W16 collection. Large scale Mandala prints adorned dresses and added an element of vibrancy to this dark collection. Snake skin and leopard print sat alongside each other, and came in warm earthy tones. The trompe l’oeil court shoe/knee high boots will no doubt be a popular choice come Fall.

Miu Miu

Miuccia Prada's latest collection for Miu Miu featured a wide use of different fabric; denim, jacquard, tweed, satin, velvet, fur, brocade, waxed cotton and wool. Looks were traditional, but styling was edgy with lots of layering used to great effect. Military tailoring came into play on jackets and off the shoulder cotton dresses and short skirts had a younger appeal.

Dior

Whilst Dior is still in a transitional period, the fashion house if still without a Creative Director, the in-house team are holding down the fort. I have to say, I loved this collection. Silhouettes were young and fresh but still classic. The 'Off the shoulder' look which was popular for S/S16, featured prominently in this collection, featuring on numerous jackets and dresses. The two main prints were textured and abstract paisleys. The patchwork ankle boots are an A/W must have.

Balenciaga

Yet more off the shoulder silhouettes at Demna Gvasali's first collection as Creative Director at Balenciaga. I adored the statement floral prints, which reminded me of what Nicholas Ghesquiere did at the brand a few years back. These florals were on billowing and boxy silhouettes and worn over candy-striped tights. Tailored coats and classic plaid dresses were cool everyday pieces, whereas the oversized ski jackets made a bigger sartorial statement.

Esteban Cortazar

Streetwear pieces were a key feature in this collection, but what I loved the most were the inventive silhouettes and choice of fabric. Leather cut-out tops, leather overalls, ribbed velvet trousers, wide leg denim trousers and Mongolian fur trimmed dresses. My favourite look was the oversized hot pink jacket - seriously amazing! The colours were also a huge appeal.

Balmain

It seems Kim Kardashian was the muse for Olivier Rousteing's latest collection at Balmain, but love it or hate it the formula works. Curvy silhouettes were created with waist cinching belts, corsetry and bell shaped skirts. Rococo beaded mini dresses with peal details and tassel hems were red carpet worthy. A colour palette of grey, blush and icy blue was ultra feminine, whereas the black and green combo added more drama. Fabrics included: suede, lace and brocade.

Valentino

As always, Valentino's show was beautiful. The main inspiration this season was ballet with models wearing tutu style dresses layered over long sleeved warm-up tops and paired with ballet flats and footless tights . The show-stopping gowns in the collection consisted of layers of tulle and delicate silver embroidery. Colours were soft and feminine.

 

This concludes my A/W16 fashion month city reviews. I hope you have enjoyed my insight into the A/W collections, giving you an indication of some of the trends and key looks we will be seeing next season. As always on my blog, I will be putting together trendboards based on what we have seen on the runway. These will follow over the next few weeks.

 

For more catwalk collections, follow my 'Runway Favourites' board on Pinterest (details below). I have posted an extensive selection of all the A/W16 collections, not just my top 10.

 

Which collections have been your favourite this season? Which designers surprised you and who disappointed?

 

Phillippa x

 

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22

Four Days In Paris During PFW...In Pictures

Last week I was over in Paris with work for 4 days during Paris Fashion Week. This was my third time in the French capital, last visiting in 2012 whilst in my final year at University. Being a business trip, there wasn't time for sightseeing, but here are a few of my favourite snaps I took whilst out and about and walking to work (taken in-between the rain and snow)...

Accessorising my Mulberry with my favourite Jane Carr scarf

Magnolia tree in Jardin des Tuileries

Jardin des Tuileries

Le Meurice Hotel

Mosaic tiles outside Le Meurice Hotel

Jardin des Tuileries at sunset

Carousel in Jardin des Tuileries

Love Locks - Pont des Arts

Annick Goutal window display on Rue de Castiglione

Pretty doors on Rue Saint-Honoré

Phillippa x

 

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22



Favourite Youtube Channels

About a year ago I really got into watching Youtube video's. Many bloggers use Youtube as an extra outlet to talk about fashion and beauty etc. I found myself really enjoying watching these style of videos and discovered a number of Youtubers whose channels I then subscribed to. In addition, there are also a number of channels from TV networks who upload clips from their shows. Here are my favourite channels

 In The Frow

Victoria's channel 'In The Frow' was the first channel I discovered on YouTube, and has subsequently become my favourite. I adore everything about this channel - the fashion hauls, styling video's, make-up tutorials, monthly favourite video's and the travel diaries. All are so beautifully filmed and edited.  Over the past year, this channel has moved more into the realms of the luxury market - with so many designer skincare and apparel brands being featured. Working in luxury fashion myself, I identify with this channel so much…Oh and Victoria just seems like the nicest person!

 Brogantatexo

I came across Brogan's channel by chance. I was contemplating going on a Trek America holiday and noticed on twitter that TrekAmerica had retweeted one of Brogan's video's, as she had just booked a Trek holiday. Shortly after I began following Brogan, she began weekly vlogging, and it's fair to say i've been pretty obsessed every since. Brogan uploads a weekly blog every Monday at 6pm, and it provides a great pick me up if you have the Monday blues. I briefly met Brogan at the BeautyBlogger awards last year and she was really sweet. She has also recently won a Cosmo Blog Award…so watch this space for more great things to come!

 Klossy by Karlie Kloss

Karlie Kloss has been one of my favourite models for a number of years. She launched her YouTube channel 'Klossy' in 2015. I love the personal insight you get to into Karlie's life - behind the scenes at photoshoots and runway shows, Q&A videos, joining her BFF Taylor Swift on stage in Hyde Park - I mean whats not to love? The video's are short, making them good to watch if you are on the go.

The Late Late Show

Hosted by James Corden, The Late Late Show is an American chat show. The YouTube channel has several clips from the show including the genius segment  'Carpool Karaoke' - in which a whole host of famous singers join Corden for music and chat. You will have probably seen these video's making the rounds on social media and in the press.

Which are your favourite Youtube channels? I would love to find some new one's to subscribe to.

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22





Fall 16 Trendboard - Oriental

For Spring 16, Gucci displayed an eclectic array of prints on the runway including a number of standout Oriental prints. From Pre Fall 16, Dennis Basso showcased a collection with bold statement prints based on a similar theme. Amalgamate the two together, and you have the building blocks of a beautiful trendboard. I adore this take on the 'Oriental' trend, thanks in part to the distinctive prints which are actually not overpowering due to their calming and sophisticated colour palette. The floral's need not be pretty, this is not a twee print trend, the beauty comes from the diverse mix of unusual flowers put together in an interesting way.

Phillippa x

 

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22

 









 

Spring 16 Couture - Review

The Spring 16 Couture shows took place in January. Here is my review of what we saw...

Chanel

This season, Karl Lagerfeld took on the concept of 'sustainability'. The minimalist set featured green lawns, lily ponds and a pavilion, all designed to be recycled post show. On closer inspection of the garments, the true scale of the 'sustainable' aesthetic could be seen - Wood chips were used as beading and paillettes. The heavily beaded gowns were like a theatrical spectacular!

Atelier Versace

As always it was signature Versace: skin on display, thigh-high splits, cut-outs, sheer panels, plunging necklines, neon pops and a celebration of the female figure. This is daring and fun couture! Twisted rope straps held together risqué dresses which had a distinctively sporty vibe. 

Christian Dior

After being rocked by the departure of Raf Simons last year, this collection was put together by the team at Dior with the absence of a Creative Director. Under Raf's supervision, Dior had been steered towards a younger audience the past few seasons. This collection followed suit. Off the shoulder silhouettes and low cut necklines were modern, whilst boxy jackets and bell sleeves offered something more traditional. But I need to ask, where were the real statement gowns?

Valentino

20th Century Venetian Romanticism was the foundation of this collection. An extraordinary use of fabric and texture was showcased across these garments: velvet, silk, pleating, gold lattice work, embroidery, ostrich feathers, patchwork...the list goes on. This collection was so rich in heritage and in artisanal execution, it really was a wonder to marvel at.

Elie Saab

With strong cultural Indian references as a starting point, underpinned with  Edwardian silhouettes, this collection was as beautiful as ever. Soft tailoring and an even softer colour palette, created a wonderfully feminine collection. Exquisite beaded capelets, sari sashes and floor length embellished gowns, swished  along the runway. One of the biggest surprises here, was the footwear - who would have thought jewel encrusted silver boots could look so good paired with a couture gown?

Armani Prive

A distinctively mauve affair this season at Armani Prive. Experimental silhouettes are one of the things Armani do best when it comes to couture. Never over-complicating matters with jewellery or headpieces, this collection spoke to those who love old Hollywood glamour. These are the ultimate, sophisticated, red carpet gowns - the tiered ruffled gowns being my favourite, as well as the pleated flowing gown with fading floral print. Cate Blanchett will be delighted!

Giambattista Valli

Giambattista collections are always so fresh and modern. Short hemlines and voluminous sleeves have become something of a signature formula for success. Pretty floral embroideries added little hints of colour to the largely white and black colour palette and of course this being Giambattista there were exaggerated ruffled organza gowns, à la Rihanna at the Grammy Awards.

Zuhair Murad

Cascading beaded and floral gowns were the most fairytale like of all the Couture collections this season. Corsetry played a big part in the forming the silhouette seen on the runway, whilst the colour palette of choice consisted of powdery pastel hues and crisp white.

Ulyana Sergeenko

Always inspired by Russia, for Spring 16 this fashion house played with 80's silhouettes. Voluminous sleeves and Va Va Voom corsetry formed this dramatic collection. Each look was different from the last and I look forward to seeing how this dresses translate onto the red carpet.

If you love couture then be sure to follow my 'Couture Fashion' board on my Pinterest page (details below). You will find a more extensive look at the full collections each season.

 

Phillippa x

 

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22



Milan Fashion Week - A/W16 - Top 10

Here is my Top 10 collections review from Milan Fashion Week...

Gucci

Alessandro Michele pulls references from so many different era's, it would be easy to make the collection look confused, but he has ability to make everything look cohesive. Michele's collections for Gucci have been a huge commercial success and this season there were plenty of looks to fight over - the fur trimmed coats, metallic jacquard suits, satin bomber jackets, embroidered serpent motifs, an array of hats, oversized fur coats and those vintage inspired gowns with layers of tulle. All the above in striking colours.

Emilio Pucci

This season Massimo Giorgetti's second collection for Pucci was much more wearable. After receiving mixed reviews last season, I was thrilled to see a much more focused collection. Gone was the embroidery and back were the bold colours and striking geometric prints. Ski slope prints, also seen at Peter Pilotto, added a nod to athleisure. Oversized knitwear and boxy dresses added volume to the collection and overall I loved the styling...not to mention the boots!

Versace

Plenty of great daywear looks in this collection: belted coats, blazers, ski pants and biker jackets. Pops of neon yellow were paired with soft grey shades and icy blue was paired with fluro coral. I loved the sense of energy that came through in this collection and the fact that it was not too overtly sexy, as can sometimes be the case. The ribbed knitwear pieces were amongst my favourites, along with the bold wavy prints which were spliced and patched together.

Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce and Gabbana always put on a real showstopper of a show, and this collection was no different. The title of this A/W offering was  'Fabulous Fantasy', and was inspired by fairytales. Clocks, magic mirrors, hot air balloons, Princess towers, carriages, mice, cats, teddy bears and wind-up toys all became embroidered and printed motifs. Dogtooth fabric with oversized applique flowers was a key look, as were classic floral bloom prints. The crochet teddy bear jacket was my favourite - Would I wear it? No / Was it amazing? Yes

Marni

As always with Marni, you can expect colour blocking and perfectly oversized silhouettes. The bell sleeves were a thing of beauty, adding volume and depth to dresses and shirts. The trousers were my favourite I have seen this season, with large pockets and huge buttons. There were even more oversized details with large paillettes embellished onto jackets.

Salvatore Ferragamo

I adored the clean lines and carefully cut silhouettes at Ferragamo, made all the better with some seriously lust worthy colour blocking. Knitwear with button detailing layered over sophisticated pleated dresses, and skirts with full length zips were my personal highlights. Striking geometric prints were juxtaposed against elegant Italian craftsmanship.

Prada

This season, Prada enlisted artist Christophe Chemin to create bespoke prints for the collection. These surrealist prints, which featured on full skirts and dresses, added depth to the collection which had multiple layers. Speaking backstage, Miuccia Prada said that this season the Prada woman is a 'Vagabond'. That concept of being a traveller and wandering from one place to the next, came through in the collection, especially in the sailor hats, 40's cocktail dresses and Russian silhouettes. The accessories were also plentiful.

 Roberto Cavalli

Flamboyant 70's references reigned supreme at Cavalli this season. Peter Dundas is a self-proclaimed fan of this style, so he is right at home at the helm of the brand. The collection had a predominantly evening feel to it, with free flowing/floor sweeping gowns, metallic flared trousers, velvet dresses with cut-out details and fur trims. Prints were rich in detail.

Missoni

I love Missoni, each season producing exciting knitwear pieces in a range of beautiful colours. This season I loved the lurex dresses, which actually had more of a summer feel to them. Continuing the popularity for cool trainers as daywear, Missoni created a number of pairs with their signature knitwear patterns - which are sure to be a hit! Long scarves also featured prominently.

Alberta Ferretti

A beautiful and feminine collection inspired by the 'boudoir', dresses had lace inserts and lingerie details. Silk pyjama style jumpsuits had soft floral prints and as always embroidery detailing was exquisite. Luxurious fabrics including: velvet, silk, fur and wool added glamour to the collection. With a backdrop of trees, this A/W offering was dark and romantic rolled into one.

I will be posting my PFW report on Monday 14th March, but until then make sure you are following my 'Runway Favourites' board on Pinterest (details below). I post all the best runway collections as and when they happen.

Phillippa x

Twitter - @Phillippa22

Pinterest - phillippadesign

Instagram - PhillippaDesign22