Tuesday 19 October 2010

Tis the season of...je ne sais quoi..?

And so it's begun. The 10 days of summer (literally) flew by and we have already entered into the dreaded limbo between Autumn and Winter. The closing season of the year has undoubtedly always been my favourite in every sense - the blazing fires, red wine, cheese boards, furry throws, the cosy fashions and of course, Elf.... However, there is always the 2 month wardrobe confusion where our brains tell us to; yes, avoid the peep toes, but, no - we're not totally ready to get dressed head to toe in cashmere (we can but dream!)
Now it took me a fair few years to master this question mark of a season, with hoards of cash going on impromptu, impulsive, spontaneous garments (cold + rain = buy a cardie) which ultimately culminated in an eclectic mix mash of clothes which looked more like a charity collection than a capsule one! But I feel I have finally found (and learnt) that the only answer to this lull is simple and back to basics! Layers.


Layers and layers...of, well layers!


I used to think 'layers' was just an excuse for my mother to throw enough clothes on me so I 'dont catch a cold!' - Looking like the Michelin man wasn't my idea of fashion, but there is certainly something in it this time round. Reminded that inspiration can be drawn at all times of the year..Topshop have showcased a stunningly beautiful base collection of  tulle, chiffon, wool, faux fur and knits topped off with beading, crystals and ruffles creating a romantic, mystical and icy statement in what can be a bland and unoriginal stint in the fashion calendar. This gorgeous collection shows us perfectly that we can still mix, match and layer up our wardrobes without having to reinvest. Evening dresses can be toned down by building up the layers with tights, long sleeve tops and over sized knit cardies. Take risks by building up different fabrics: thick and thin, hard and soft - cashmere, silk, chiffon and wool all work perfectly together and teamed with a pair with knee high socks and boots..you are set to go in these blustery months!

Key accessory staples include: wool knit tights and knee high socks (the thicker the better)!  
If this collection is called 'Snow Queen' - then open the heavens and let it fall!








Monday 18 October 2010

Music & Madness

So everyone who knows me knows the 2 loves of my life are unquestionably music and fashion! So I thought why not bring a bit of that love into my blog! And what a band to start with..... Sleigh Bells - Infinity Guitars The raw, stripped back guitar intro has an instantly distinguishable beat which gets the pulse racing as the hazy distorted vocals makes this track an awesome listen and a refreshing change to the current scene, with the likes of Mumford and Sons and Bombay Bicycle Club taking over. Its a bit chaotic with the madness of electric guitars, distortion and insane percussion but all in all executed, well...perfectly! I love it! A track I could only describe as a gritty gem!

Friday 19 March 2010

Heineken Asks "Are You Still With Us?!"

Heineken's balls of steel have exceeded all marketing expectation and innovation, putting them at the top of the league/table/bar bill/ world...and this football promo deserves some credit!


On the eve of one of the biggest matches in football, Real Madrid vs AC Milan, Heineken decided to stage a fake event at the same time the match was to be played. The event was a mix of classical music infused with poetry and was held in an Italian theatre. To pull off the event, they recruited 200 people to help convince 1000 fans to sacrifice the biggest game of the season and attend the classical event!

This was all part of a campaign which saw men increasingly loosing the ability to watch the sacred football match with friends. Most women will see this in positive light, as the battle for the remote dies out as we win over the right to Gok’s Fashion Fix. But after viewing this campaign, I too have surcome to finding pleasure in the unity and passion our countries have on the pitch and am quickly reminded of the importance of our men...bonding with their balls!

T Mobile guerrilla marketing...Amazing.
Heineken guerrilla marketing...Absofrickinglutely...Ingenious.
Enough said??

Tuesday 9 February 2010

The Brits Blossom Early This Season..

The powerful echo of 5 inch heels strutting down the runway at LFW won't be the only sound of a brands success this season. More and more designers are producing collections which have shone and shocked in the public arena. Last season, Burberry proved to the nation that they had finally, and rightfully shaken the stigma that had tarred the brand name for years, by completely dominating the catwalk and glossies with their high fashion, uplifted and revitalised designs. A small dose of this determination and a big pinch of imagination has seen other bull-dog Brits fight for the right to prove their worth...
Henri Lloyd. Est 1963.



The beautifully shot SS10 Collection looks like it has come straight out of a Red, Italian Vogue or Vanity Fair mag and shows classic, sexy tailoring, clean bold colours and statement pieces in keeping with the HL marine identity however maintaining a fashion edge reminiscent of the classic Ralph Lauren, Crew and past Burberry summer collections. A stronger design focus and a clear voice behind the logo has led this under-rated brand back on course.   My seasons highlights...
 




















Us Brits pride ourselves on our heritage. Our historical ruins, our love for English tea, the Queen, the ultimate fry up.. The roots of Henri Lloyd have also remained consistent as they continue to focus on design innovation within the clothing industry. Without change, there is no creativity, nor incentive for improvement. Those who continue to develop will have a better opportunities and this is exactly what Henri Lloyd have done and are consequently reaping the rewards having formed a strong partnership with Brawn F1 - an incredible achievement for a brand who strive to produce major technological and performance advancements in sportswear.



Henri Lloyd are winning back the love from the public just in time for Valentine’s Day, as the the infectious HL voice behind Facebook and Twitter has attracted more fans, followers and celebs through collection teasers, creative and interactive competitions and a friendly rapport which I believe will only continue to help develop them to become a stronger fashion brand - gaining back the recognition they deserve. Ahoy!

Those of you single this Vday....never fear! Here is a little treat HL decided to sneak into the catalogue and all I can say is..thank you! xx