MFW SUNDAY 25/09/11

Here are my favourite looks from the Sunday catwalks :)

DOLCE E GABBANA

Another Italian design team that were feeling particularly fruity for SS12.  Moschino gave us interpretations of fruit and veg through embellishment and cooky carrot buttons on jackets...Dolce e Gabbana brought it to us by print....after all you have to think of your 5 a day somehow! and what a perfect way to include them in your daily routine by wearing some! ha.

I loved the 50's inspired wasp waist full circle dresses that were also printed with stylised and watery onions.  They look like flowers at first glance but you have to look closer..and you will agree that onions have never loked so "fashion!"

I also liked the bra tops that appeared again, teamed with short shorts and a fun attitude.  This design duo was feeling the heat, and you can just imagine wearing these combos in the scorching sicilian sun (aaaah take me back to la bella Siciliaaaaa)  Other cute details included a trio of bows, one at front neckline and 1 at each waist...somehow it managed not to look too cutesy.

Key fabrics apart from vegetable/hawaiian inspired prints included lace.  You can't have Dolce e Gabbana without lace after all! This time they moved on from their previous ss collection by indulging in some appliqué.  This appeared in dresses and tops, which look like a perfect buy for spring.  Imagine wearing them with cute little mid lenght chiffon skirts and a leather jacket....

I also loved the embellished lace, one of my favourite looks was the nude lace and multicoloured sequins used in the last look (the colours no doubt were inspired by the fruit and veg...think pink, orange, gold and blue) a very high end way to present a fruity concept.  YUM!

 VERSUS

Christopher Kane and Donatella Versace collaborated on this stunning, sporty and elegant collection.  And wowzer, what a stunner!

You had me at the first look out on the catwalk,  which consisted of a monochrome shell top dress with contrast line panelling and oversized sport zips.  You know a collection is going to be good when the first look is so strong.

I loved the use of layering used throughout the collection.  Monochrome pleating was used to add movement and depth to the clothing, through a hide and seek concept.  Large rouleaux panels were inserted from waist to hem (which is something that a few designers have played with this season) and I think it is a great way to introduce some texture. 

Another key item that I loved was the use of sheer fabric.  Not only am I a fan of sheer silks, but I also thought that it brought a certain femininity to the collection, as heavy contouring and industrial zips were used a lot, which could have made the collection look too harsh.  I also loved the sheer black trousers that were featured with a printed top.  I WILL be sporting these as soon as I work out just how to wear them.  Give me some time, I will get there! Overall, a great collection, from two great designers.  oh and it looks like sport chic is a definitive spring summer favourite. YES!

MARNI

AAAh the forever kooky girl of Marni.  She just ain't scared of wearing what she wants is she? and why not...she has a knack for making wrong clothes look right!

Ever the rebellious, whilst other designers focsed on the 1920's for inspirations, Marni looked to the 60's. 

I liked bits and pieces from this collection, but my favourite look has to be the first one...how sweet!  I love the layering of matt print with the chiffon underlay...teamed with just a simple shell top...it has spring written all over it. 

MFW Saturday 24/98/11

JILL SANDERS

aaah I love Jill Sander's simplicity. It's like a breath of fresh air...

The fashion house is known for well constructed garments and this collection shows this off quietly but confidently.  I loved the way that matt and sheer were combined throughout the collection, in a not so obvious way (this means that for girls which have to wear a bra will be very happy!!)  It looks like the same fabric has been used within the pieces, just with different weights.  perfect.  The round neck white blouse with a mid arm seam, yoke and pockets is to die for.  All that construction detail is shown off with no effort AT ALL.  I also loved the pleated peter pan collar short sleeve dress, wowzer!

The introduction of block colours also lifted the collection, loving the rasberry pink dress with layered hems, it adds interest to the piece, without making it fussy.  There is also that stunning green (again!).  Noticing that there is a lot of green shown thoughout SS12, and the bow detail on the dropped shoulder Edwardian inspired top/jacket makes it cute without making it look too girly. 

Extra colour was added on the knitwear, splashes of yellow, black and blue formed the stylised Picasso prints (of whom the family was thanked in the show's notes), which teamed with mid lenght skirts create a perfect summer's outfit.

JUST CAVALLI

Just Cavalli presented a new look for the line this season.  It was softer, with a hippy and rock&roll vibe to it.  But of course, being Just Cavalli, there was also some sex appeal in there!

Denim trousers and Denim jackets were given some interesting features by the use of whip stitching, in contrast and tonal colours, which added to the newly founded muse of Roberto Cavalli's festival girl.  Personally, I love this technique in this collection! It wasn't overdone and colours were kept classic, as it has a danger of looking tacky sometimes.

There was also a lot of print used, which included snake, leopard and floral.  I loved the combination of print and feathers, as this is certainly a tribal look gone chic, perfect for those high summer nights out! Studding and printed leather also added to texture, and made the clothes very touchable and interesting.

MOSCHINO CHEAP AND CHIC

One a day keeps the doctor away....The whole concept behind this collection was healthy eating, which was portrayed quite literally in some pieces and with the use of strong, vibrant hues.

Take for instance the first look out on the catwalk- that fuschia pink dress, green bow and black shaped gem embellishment- Good enough to eat!

I also loved more of the graphic work that appeared on tops and dresses of apples and other types of fruits.  It was kept simple with maximum 2-3 colours and placed on neutral backgrounds.  Great to add a kooky piece into your wardrobe!

The colour blocked rainbow dress screams bestseller, and I am sure there will be copies on the high street everywhere!  I can imagine this in a lovely silk crepe colour blocked shift teamed with white ballet pumps...literally got my fruity creative juices going and yearning for some sun!

The floral prints used were especially a strong point for me.  I loved the high end, watercolour effect flower motifs, and the colours used again were stunning.  Not so cheap but very chic!!!

MILANO Friday Favourites 23/09/2011

Thursday...what a day!!!!!  a feast for the eyes....

PIAZZA SEMPIONE

Although they have been showing their collections since 1991- I had not really followed Piazza Sempione before, but curiosity got the better of me, and boy I'm glad it did.  What a stunning collection! 

The label is based in Milan and is made up of designers Ionna Soleas and Daniele Calcaterra.  Having looked at their company website, I am also impressed that the collection is 100% made in Italy, which also follows ethical guidelines.  Hoorah!  Soleas and Calcaterra focus on creating garments that are going to last you, well crafted and made in great quality fabric. 

"We interpret enduring fashion trends, our clothes are created to last over time.

We design to guarantee the perfect fit and provide a feeling of ease and comfort."

Check them out at the following url- www.piazzasempione.com/

Anyways, back to the collection.  If sporty chic was an emerging trend, then these designers confirmed it...in a beautifully cut and well executed collection.  My oh my, I don't know where to begin.  Below I've included my Monday to Friday dream outfits below....I wish!

I loved the minimal detailing on blouses, which included concealed plackets, half double breasted panels and mandarin/pointed peter pan collars in a soft colour palette of blush baby pink and crisp wite.

I loved the use of pleating that the designer's used throughout the collection; these included released pleats and knife pleats on tops and shift dresses.  I am personally in love with the pleated white waistcoat (look number 1 found below) I mean wow!

Key featres to also note were the use of exposed metal teeth zips, elastic used at waist and the subtle mixing of matt/shiny fabrics combined to create a new, exciting take on colour blocking.  It is really subtle, but I think combining matt/shiny fabrics is genius (I've put a close up of this bottom right)

Will definately be keeping an eye on this duo!

 ETRO

Etro is one of my favourite labels.  Always has and always will be, since I love print and texture.  And this label knows how to do it, FACT!

Etro always shows a huge collection, so it was really hard to pick my favourite, most inspiring pieces, but I gave it a go below!

I definately loved the tribal theme that Veronica Etro brought forward.  I liked the colours nude colours of nude pink and beige teamed with oversized black aztec inspired black embellishment. A strong look for a strong woman! The us of fringing also confirmed that this trim is going to be MAHOOSIVE for SS12.  I particularly liked the way that it was inserted into different parts of the garments, the most commonly seen was as an underlayer to skirts and inserted at yoke seams on tops.  This was either dip dyes or metallic (which designer's just can't seem to get enough this SS season)

Another feature that I realy liked was the use of shaped yoke panelling- Etro used the finest sheer silk to insert yokes to give the illusion of bare shoulder.  Lovely!

There was also a lot contrast binding going on throughout the collection, especially on the printed pieces.  A great way to efine and highlight certain parts of the garments in my opinion, as sometimes these can get a bit lost when there is heavy use of print.

VERSACE

I ain't a Versace woman, but boy do I respect Donatella Versace as a designer.  She just manages to create stunning looks season after season! I do believe that her ideas are fresh, imaginative and modern, which is apparent through her ability to use new materials and techniques and apply them into stunning collections.

I have included some favourite looks that were seen on her SS12. 

I loved the simple shift dresses embellished with studs around the neckline, vertical seam panels and waistline.  The mixing of fabrics was clever too (matt on top, sheer on bottom) as it lifts the garment by giving it texture, even though it is all one colour (look number 1)

I particularly liked the mixing of the fabrics throughout the collection- a highlight for me was the black, studded, leather contoured dress seen below.  Although there is a lot going on, it still manages to look sleek.  A key detail apart from the embellishment is the half of peplum inserted at the waist.  Great new take on the peplum which was seen A LOT during the SS12 shows!

MILANO- Thursday Favourites 22/09/2011

I have included some of my favourite designs which were shown on Thursday 22/09/2011 @MFW...

FENDI

Karl Lagerfield was inspired by the early 60's for this collection.  The models sported great big huge bouffant hair, and futuristic made up sunglasses.  What a way to kick off a look!

I really liked the details that were injected into the clothing throughout the collection, as I felt it added quirky elements in a very beautiful and sophisticated way.

I liked the pattern creativity in the first full 2 looks seen below.  The first outfit having a double layered sleeve pattern (which seems a good move on the boy layering that has been massive on the high street) and the use of large rouleauxs extended oer the hem of tops.  I have noticed that there has been a lot of rouleaux panel inserting throughout the fashion catwalks (especially on the bottoms)

I loved the texture that was brought into the collection, through the use of clean embroidery and other fabrics.  The embroidery was very eye catching, even though it was very simple.  Placed on a bight white background, the threads were coloured in red, navy, ochre and green.  Lovely!  A firm favourite of mine is also the punctuated suede which appeared on outerwear...give me anything perforated and you have my attention anyways!  I just want to touch it! (and obviously own it)

I think the knitwear in this collecton is absolutely stunning.  Large placed cable knits were knitted onto semi transparent knitted bases, which allowed texture and transparency to shine through.  I want this!!

Finally, I liked the use of colouring on the stripe-combined with block colour hems. The use of white, ochre and navy gives a retro feel, although feels modern and fresh too.

 D&G

D&G's last show!  It was a shock to the system, as this line I thought had always done well.  Anyways, it is the last time that they would show as it is being integrated into Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana's mainline "Dolce and Gabbana."  Although it is a bit sad, the clothes did not reflect this mood on the catwalk.  In fact, it was an explosion of colours!

It was very ethnic inspired, as it featured a lot of paisley and Hermès type scarved that looked like they had been patched up and created into perfect fitting tops, dresses and skirts.  It shouldn't work but it does, and it does so quite charmingly -  it kind of reminds me of a type of dressing where you just chucked anything on that you could find- from your mum's hidden gems to lovely vintage finds- and mixing it all up!

My favourite looks from this collection include the shell top with placement paisley and matching binding at neckline teamed with paisley shorts...great summer look!  The colours are stunning...with white, brown, pink and orange...

I also really liked the printed bra top-  this was shown a lot during the SS12 shows, but has been popping up in the MFW shoes a lot...on the high street there has been many a copy of these bra tops in black and cutout detail, so perhaps this is a great way to move them on, by having them printed.

The bloomer silk shorts are also fantastic! now I just need to tone those legs up.....

PRADA

 How does Miuccia Prada do it??  Every season she comes out with motifs that you think you would never wear, and yet as soon as she shows them, they become utterly irresistable...Take for instance the stylised toy car print that featured in her SS12 collection.  Such a simple motif...

I really loved the embroidered artigian inspired lace that she used throughout the pieces, as it provided texture and interest to the surface of the clothes, without making it look too "home-made" I liked the dropped shoulder yoke she introduced on a lot of the pieces, as she kept these in neutral colours and teamed them with the strong colour red/blue hue- perfect way to highlight the lace's edges.

I'm glad to see pleats from Prada, as I cannot get enough!

Milan - Wednesday Show Highlights

I have not had access to a computer for the past couple of days, so couldn't wait to see how Milan fashion week kicked off!

Below I have put some images of the Wednesday 21/09/2011 shows.

GUCCI

Gucci for me has appealed more and more each season.  And this season I am definately a fan...Look at the simple colour palette and beautiful embellishment on wearable clothes!  You definately can wear these clothes straigh off the peg.  And look a million dollars without trying.

The look in shaping is minimal, with clean, straight lines and sharp cuts in beautiful silk fabrics.  I am personally loving the dropped 20's inspired waist seam, which is turning out to be quite a trend alert for the SS12. season.  What I love about this collection is that the colour palette is kept simple.  The key colours that feature are white, Black, (that stunning) green, teamed with gold/silver embellishment.  What a stunner!  added extra trimmings also compliment this collection stunningly, such as the art deco inspired embellishment motifs on sheer panels, the horizontal embellishment used as a shape divider (top from bottom) and irridescent fringing (which I believe will be a key trim to be used and to be seen in!!)

I've never particularly wanted anything green in my wardrobe, but Frida Giannini has definately won me round this!

ALBERTA FERRETTI

Alberta Ferretti is one of my favourite designers.  I love her design aesthetic, everything tha she creates seems effortless and utterly desirable.

So for SS12, I was waiting for new pieces to admire from afar...and she certainly delivered!

I loved the cutout technique that she used throughout the collection and the way that she varied it ever so slightly to keep us interested and wanting more!  Cutout detailing has been particularly stong on the high street (at waist panels on dresses and arms on long tops) so it was nice to see the designer introduce new placed to hide and reveal.  She left us wanting more by applying cutouts (some with tonal embellishment) at full waist, in horizontal and vertical panelling, art deco inspired motifs and on trousers.  Although not all total cutouts, that was the intended look.

The use of tonal embellishment in dresses adds a sophistication and elegance, as generally when embellishment is applied for a high summer tribal story it tends to go multi coloured.  Not this time, the tribal girl has grown up! I love the segmentation of the beads, in what loks like Art Deco and tribal inspired motifs.

Theother feature I particularly liked about this collection was the use of floral print.  It reminded me much of the Proenza Schouler collection in terms of motif and colours used.  It is a new retro take on the hawaiian theme.

N21

I have recently discovered N21.  And I must say that I do really really like it!

It is headed by none other than Alessandro Dell'Acqua, which makes me like it even more.  He is not one to really follow/create trends, what he likes to do is to make a woman feel both comfortable and amazing in his clothes.  All in an elegant, yet quirky way (look at the way he pairs a simple light blue cotton shirt with a fully multi sized embellished skirt)

What  I liked about the collection was that the shapes used throughout are all wearable, but have some extra details to them that makes you look twice.  Such details include a simple shirt collar encrusted with beads and crystals, double layered hems in a variety of fabrics, unexpected piping and gathering for decoration and fastening options.  I particularly liked the use of that stunning silk satin fabric used for the elasticated hemmed dress and waist shorts.  What a colour! And what a fabric! A definite key fabric to be used in SS12, for that sporty chic look that is being seen as a strong trend possibility!

FRANCESCO SCOGNAMIGLIO

This is a total new designer for me.  So I checked him out!   

I have put some of my favourite looks from hi SS12 collection.  I loved the fact that he mixed strong, clean, tailored pieces with frilly, feminine items throughout the collection, also mixing fabrics along the way.

He used quite a lots of placement lace (both in contrasting and dyed to match colours) on tops/dresses/skirts.  All inserted by appliqué technique or by actual panelling.

The colour palette consisted of mostly white, black and peach, which were teamed with embellished tights (copper)  I particularly liked the layering of sheer pieces with the embellishment.  What a great look by the way,  might have to try it out!  Get me some tights, glue and beads presto!!

wow-David Koma grows up! SS12 (London)

I have been following David Koma for the past couple of seasons, but I have always felt it was a bit too over the top for me.  Not for this SS12 though.  He has refined his look and created a beautiful, inspiring collection.

You can still tell it is David Koma, as he has kept true to his design aesthetic with the use of leather layering and large embellishments.  What has changed is perhaps they way he puts it all together, in a more subtle way, which makes this collection a pleasure to look at. 

I love the way he has used layering thoughout the pieces, devoré playing a key part in this.  There was a lot of sheer panelling with devored tribal motifs, which were then layered by solid coloured panels.  This created depth and interest to the pieces.

I also loved the layered half peplums he introduced (another designer choosing to incorporate peplums...a sure key trend for SS12).  It is particularly interesting the way he created these by the use of pleating and strip panelling.  Lovely.

I also loved the use of triangle embellishment to adorn simple shell tops, teamed with a colour block sleeve hem.  Great work David!!!!!!

Winner Trio- Temperley, Roksanda Ilincic and Burberry SS12 (London)

I like to look at Alice Temperley.  Hang on, I sounded a bit like a stalker then....let me clear this up....Not the person, the clothes!

I find that she appeals to my romantic side of dressing, without overkilling it.  Loved the colour palette for this collection: white, black, cream, nude and sunbleached terracotta.  Great colour: check.

Then there are the shapes.  All extremely wearable, utterly desirable and with personality.  check.

I love the double layered silk georgette shorts teamed with a satin shell top and monochrome printed belt, could just see myself popping this on and heading out under 10 mins and feeling great.  I also particularly liked the white what looks like a dolmain sleeve top with the cutout detail- which isn't an actual cut out detail but a fastening option...great 2 for 1 top!  can wear it open or with the self fabric covered buttons fastened. 

The use of sheer fabrics in tops and dresses with stunning embroidery/appliqué is a winner for me too.  you can' get much more romantic than this right!!??

Roksanda Ilincic....I do like this collection, most of all because it has guts.  Guts in the shape of experimentation with form and shape, and needless to say with the use of bold colour.

I am getting a feeling that edwardian puffed sleeves are coming into trend...a lot of the designers for SS12 have used this shape in a variety of ways.  They have simply dropped the shoulder seam (to where a short sleeve would normally end) and put some volume in there by the form of gathering.  Rosanda here has been one of the ones where she has not been afraid to really push the boat out.  And I love the extra detail of a raw edge frill introduced into the shoulder seam.  Gived it a slightly more feminine touch. 

I love the 2 tone colour blocked maxi in that acqua blue and fuschia pink (not for me to wear personally I must say, just to look at) but a sure sell out in a more high summer look/holiday staple)  You would catch me more in an outfit looking more like number 5.  Navy peg leg trousers (with a really great printed leg cuff), silky white shell top and bright loose tailored blazer.  (bright tailored pieces were a fantastic seller for SS11 and I hope to see them again for SS12!)

Saving it for a rainy day....

Christopher Bailey wasn't feeling the summer apparently.  Not in the obvious bright, light way anyways.  Surprising really because from his Pre-SS12 he had included a lot of bright yellow and intricate embroidery/embellishment (which although he has introduced a few pieces like that, there wasn't as many as I was expecting)

This collection looked at traditional detailing and played a lot with natural looking textures, such as raffia. 

The key pieces for me in this collection were the large scaled embellished shell tops, in a tonal array of colours.  Olive green, canary yellow, burnt terracotta, brown and lilac.

There wre also those delightful high waisted tab detailed midi lenght skirts, which came in lovely terracotta, blue and olive green.

Print was undoubtely inspired by Africa....which a few other designers have used in their SS12 shows.  trend alert! 

Erdem does HOT PANTS! SS12 (London)

Having interned at Erdem, I am a huge biased fan of his.

It's not difficult to like though is it!! Erdem is known for his beautiful use of lace and embroidery work (something that I have had the luck in seeing with my own two eyes close up) and let me tell you, its phe-no-mi-nal!

Erdem uses a subdued colour palette of white,  blue, canary yellow with accented colours such as red and pink for his SS12 show.

The first look down the catwalk did surprise me, as he presented a pair of (great looking) hot pants...this surprised me as he is known for a more elegant and demure look...But I is not complaining, as it features a combination of print and cotton lace, whichdoubt will appeal to younger customers.

Next look that made me stop and zoom in is the beautiful light blue trench coat.  It has a slight oriental feel as Erdem has used a lot of heavy embroidery.  It is stunning and I want one!

My favourite look (or piece) from the collection is the white, embroidered flowered shirt teamed with 7/8th lenght printed trousers.  I like a statement piece, and this does so elegantly and beautifully.

Erdem used a variety of lace design within his collection, which varied the looks and brought depth to the collection.  Texture was also brought in by varying the type of lace, and featured embroidered lace on sheer fabrics and your normal cotton crocheted lace. 

Whichever lace/texture/fabric/print/embroidery he used, it all matched and worked beautifully.  I hope some day to own a piece of my own...being the romantic girl at heart that I am!

Fashion Makes People Cry. FACT!

This collection made some people at Fashion week nearly cry.  Although I wouldn't go as far as crying, it did bring a smile on my face!

I loved the shimmery leather fabric that he used for his first looks on the catwalk.  At first sight it looks like the fabric is wet, but as you look closer you realised its just beautiful shimmering fabric.  Love it when fashion surprises you!

Christopher Kane also used a lot of embellishment (not surprising-remember his first neon diamond encrusted collection anyone??!!)  This time, it took a more elegant and sophisticated approach, using a colour palette of nude and tonal gem embellishments, which look absolutely to die for!  (I can't help but wonder how heavy it would feel!!)  He also used embellishment on denim, in particular I liked the crystals he placed on the knees, great way to jazz them up and I feel there are copies of these being made as we speak for high street retailers (River Island springs to mind!!)

Kane also introduces sheer fabrics on shell tops and shift dresses and teams them with beautiful collaged appliqued printed floral motifs..(this is the bit that made me smile)  Lovely way to introduce colour to subdued shades of nude and dove grey.

Keeps on getting better...Michael Van Der Ham SS12 (London)

I am a fan of Michael Van Der Ham.  He is known for his colourfully collaged aesthetic, something that he continues to grow and develop with each season.  Whereas his first collection featured vintage pieces all collaged together, his SS12 show did not feature as much.  However, he still stayed true to his design aesthetic, and kept his creative streak pretty much alive!  You just have to look closer....

Being a print child myself, I am always drawn to look at the prints in a collection first, and this did not let me down.  Van Der Ham has a lot of things going on...enough to draw you in but not too much where your head might explode.  He has the right balance down to a tee.  I particularly liked his abstract lined floralesque pattern on white backgrounds, combined with colourblocking border panels.  delightful.

Not only does he show his creativity through the use of print, he also uses it to add quirky design details on simple garment shapes.  I loved the use of triple layer raw-edged appliquéd on edges.  oh and the side split edge on skirts/dresses that revealed another layer.

His collections are becoming more and more commercial, which no doubt is expanding his customer base.  Let's hope he knows when to stop before he loses what made him different in the first place- fearlessness of fabric combining, unfinished raw edging and unexpected colour palettes.

Tribal Indulgence- Feel the Heat!

aaaah Matthew Williamson, you do Spring/Summer seasons with perfection. 

The use of colour in this collection is EXTRA-ordinary... Biscuit, Yellow, Monochrome, Dove Grey, Blush Pink, Terracotta orange...all just mix sublimely together in a stunning and definately HOT way.

I do love most of the looks in this collection, and would wear them just as they are (Including the Charlotte Olympia shoes!!) Embroidery and cutwork feature quite heavily in an array of colours, giving stunning and intricate detailing to simple shapes.  On pieces where Williamson has kept to a single colour code, he has not failed to breathe some new exciting life into them; look at the crochet ladder trims on the reworked pocketed shirts, the pleat/pocket tabs on volumous shorts, and a touch of embellishment at blazer outer pockets.  

The man has great attention to detail.  That is all I have to say. 

Off to the show we go! Kristian Aadnevik SS12 Show (London)

I was totally excited to be invited to by my lovely friend Line to the Kristian Aadnevik SS12 show!  A mixed crowd of fashionistas, student bloggers and fellow Norwegians congregated to view this very dramatic and powerful catwalk show.

Set in a beautiful place, with dimmed chandelier lighting, wooden bookcases full of antique books and an intimate setting, it was worth the wait!

Moving gorgeous models ain't so easy to capture on a Blackberry phone so I have uploaded a video of final line up and the swift designer's bow at the end.

I personally loved the use of structured metallic bodices with a floaty chiffon bottom, the intricate feather work and assymetric maxi skirt teamed with elaborate sequinned jacket...

Absolute pleasure to watch :)

Dropping some beats @ Picadilly Circus (Human Beat boxer Contrix)

Waiting for our other half of the group to arrive aprés the Kristian Aadnevik SS12 show @ Picadilly Circus...and "Contrix" arrives...Just plonks his bag, speaker/ microphone and the plastic bowl and starts beat boxing...absolutely brilliant!

Way to get the party started!

1st video got a bit excited....

Look at the hand action @ 40 secs in!

You know I wants yaaaa...You know I neeeeddd yaaaa....Issa SS12 (London)

Get into the spirit!  Look at that I <3 Rio T-shirt...teamed with exotic printed shorts...Talk about a must have!

Beautiful colors and prints from Issa....Loving the classic belted and pleated at hem white dress in a broderie anglais fabric, how cute would that look teamed with just some tan wedges and loose curly hair?

That Jade fringed dress would look stunning teamed with a tan, I think you would feel rather special in this.

Another highlight for me in this collection is the stunning re-worked stripe print.  Stripes were massive this SS11, but Issa have managed to make it look fresh and contemporary by introducing abstract lines in a to die for colour combination of nude, peach, duck egg blue and strong blue hue...I loved the other simpler pieces that sit confortably alongside the print too...colour blocked beige with that accented colour blue to highlight key features on arms, waist and hems.  The introduction of scalloped hems on tops and sleeves just adds a certain quirky/cute styling detail that makes you yearn for more.

Last but not least...look at the carnival finale girl! WOW! enough to turn any straight girl a bit curious!!!!!

Colour/Print GOD- Jonathan Saunders SS12 (London)

EEEK...What a stunning collection from Mr Jonathan Saunders.  Before I start to even comment on how beautiful it is, just let me stare at it for a few more seconds......

ok, so where to start with this one!  I am a fan of Jonathan Saunders, as I love the way he combines colours together, and let's not forget to mention the fantastic prints he continues to make us fall in love with!

My favourite looks are seen above.  What I like about this collecton is the fact that although we have seen a lot of candy-gelato coloured hues on recent SS12 shows, this seems fresh and new, even though it uses the same colours! ya get me?!  The reason for this is Saunders' supreme ability to mix and match colours with enthusiasm and without fear, plus when one introduces beautiful prints then the outcome is bound to be stunning, non? 

Favourite print is the degradé/Ombre paisley with colour blocked panel at hem...could you hit more trends in one go? Paisley, Ombré, colour block....

I love the way classic white tops and dresses have been given some interest and modernised, by producing them in light (in what looks like) chiffon/georgette fabrics and introducing pleats as a focus point.

I am rather in love with the sheer dresses and appliquéd light coloured velvet....i mean wow!  If you had to wear velvet in summer...this way would be it!

More of a fan each season!...Henry Holland SS12 (London)

Each season I like this designer more and more.  I am particularly enamoured with this collection, as it features 3 of my favourite things:

1. Nude/tonal colours

2.  ombré/degradé

3.  Large, abstract animal patters

et voilà, a pretty exciting collection to look and drool at!

The shapes are all very current and wearable, and again it is all in the detailing and mixing of fabrics ( I am in love with the first look featured below....nude/duck egg blue colour blocked panels and snakesking printed collar- teamed with bleached out nude shorts-WOW)

The ombré pastel shading teamed with the dark large scaled up leopard is also a great look..I can sense a high summer WINNER!!! (Emma Hart that was for you my friend :) )

Scallops and Pleats Please- Jaeger SS12 (London)

AAAHHH what a lovely, wearable collection from Jaeger. 

I love the simple shaping created for that "I've just taken 5 minutes to get ready but I look fabulous" ensembles.

Looking at details close up, the scallop detailing with dyed to match blanket stitching is divine.  It not only adds some cutout work, but also a different type of texture to the clothes.  I love the use of pleats (which I am very very happy are still showing strong signs at SS12 shows as I can't get enough of them!)  and also, the unexpected use of dtm self fabric covered buttons, placed neatly along armhole seam.  A great way to add some 3D detailing.

Another key detail that Jaeger introduced was the use of fabric bows, which featured at neckline (so to act as a bow tie- larger scale) and also down the side of the outer arm (smaller scale). LOVELY.

Bringing Couture Detailing to RTW- Julien McDonald (London)

My brain is overloading, I can't really string a sentence together...Look at all that detail! What brilliant craftmanship Julien Mcdonald has introduced! 

The starting point for this collection was one of the designer's favourtie tings about the summer...other people's yachts.  Brilliant!  The second was travelling through Asia, which was apparent in the heavily beaded motifs of dragons that featured on tops and dresses.  One was so intricate he revealed that it took 60 men in order to complete it...I wonder how the production manager is going to deal with that one!!! And thirdly, the designer's fetish for tattoos was also reflected in the collection, but think beautiful, refined, elegantly beaded motifs...not harsh and contrasting.

I just can't looking at that irridescent, metallic fringing!!!!!!!

It's all in the detail...JW Anderson - Women Salon Show SS12 (London)

Wow, what a subtle yet amazingly charming use of colours, not to mention the great detailing used in unexpected ways....

I loved the shapes used throughout this collection, simple collared long sleeve shirts, collared shift dresses and straight legged cropped trousers.  All of these are very modern and very "now."  To breathe new life into these current shapes JW Anderson has cleverly inserted intricate yet not overpowering detailing, adding depth and interest. 

I particularly liked the use of eyelets and contrasting patchwork of fabrics, the fringing, the knife pleating and the fabulous chain work.  Here are my favourite looks from the collection.

This shows a perfect mix of masculine and feminine dressing.  Just the way I like it!  I already have clothes envy to any of the future owners of clothes from this collection.

Norwegian rendevous @Kristian Aadnevik SS12 show

I am really really excited about going to see Kristian Aadnevik's SS12 show tomorrow...courtesy of my lovely Norwegian friend Line!! 

I am not too familiar with the designer's work, but I shall be from now on after having a look at his past works!  What a designer!  No wonder he is Donatella Versace's next protegé!  Kristian Aadnevik was born in Norway and educated at the Royal College of Art in London.

Key words that spring to mind when looking at his cllections are drama, couture details, sexyness and more drama! Boy does he put on a show.  He is undecided between fairytale and horror.  He quotes: 

“For me every collection is like a film starring the heroines I dress; plots and stories change, but my muse remains the same, she is the protagonists who evolves and explores life.”

I am looking forward to this! 

Only one question left to answer....the dreaded WHAT TO WEAR....

Minimalism, sharp cuts and contrasting colours @Anne-Sofie Back Atelje

I am a fan of print, but I guess when fabric combinations and cut are combined and are done as well as this, I just can't help myself in loving this collection. 

The first look out on the catwalk sets the mood- clear, sharp, clever and wearable.  The key word here is also subtle- as in subtle design...it is not overstated and does not scream out for attention.  Instead, it offers you marvellous design details that you just can't help but notice.  Here, I am talking about reworked upside down lapels, play with gathering and draping and inserted hardly-notice-me belts.

The main colour palette consisted of white, black and that fabulous pink! what a great colour to add depth and to lift the collection. 

The Anne-Sofie Back girl looks expensive, elegant, laid back and impossibly cool...a look which I will be copying at all costs!

I must say, I want more of Emilia Wickstead....

Just seen this collection, and what a lovely one at that.  I am not too familiar with Emilia Wickstead, but I will be from now on.

What I particularly liked about this collection is that although it had one type of customer in mind, it also catered to the different personalities of a woman...one which is demure and girly...and the other is sexy and has an extra va va voom!  The demure and girly girl can pick and choose from lovely mid lenght pleated skirts, lovely Paris printed shift tops and the type of dress you would wear at a quintessentially English tea party in the middle of a summer's day.  We are talking of a real lady here.

The other more "sexy" side is shown with tiny rompers, pleated short revealing waistcoats and deep, pleated v-neckline tops and dresses, which featured a lovely peplum.

Although the colour scheme was kept fairly light and sugary, the collection felt breezy without feeling too girly.  The use of pleats instead of frills would have definately helped this, but also, the use of silhouette.  The shapes were clean, modern and had some lovely exaggerated form at parts (such as dropped seam shoulder and midi flounced skirt)

I won't need to worry what to wear to a picnic/fabulous garden party as I can definately take inspiration from here....now i'm only waiting for an invitation and for summer to come...

Barbie as you've never seen her before!!

So I recently got introduced to the wonderfully unique Doll Head Jewellery through a friend of a friend, and I must say I love the concept!  Barbie has never looked so hip and modern!

Bored of everyday standard metal/stone ring combination? Need something funky and that you've never seen before?  Doll Head Jewellery might be just the thing that you are looking for!

Doll head Jewellery is a fun way to add a difference to your outfit, stand out from the crowd, be different and get talked about.  Each unique piece is hand made with love and care and is all adjustable to your size.  Each ring is themed and has a different vibe to it, and because they are all made by the lovely Jade, you can even ask for be-spoke pieces to be made, just the way you want them!   Personally, I think it would make a lovely and touching birthday present if you had a mini-me version of a friend made...how cute!  Say if your friend is known to love headbands/big bows/bright jewellery all you need to do is to put in your request....

The rings are sell outs in Liverpool and have caused quite a stir, as you can imagine.

They are stocked in the following independent boutiques in Liverpool.

http://www.resurrection-online.com/ and the amazing alternative world of Quiggins at http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=553128822&sk=wall#!/profile.php?id=100000616104102

If you are not in the Liverpool area, you can visit the online store and buy away at the following address:

http://www.dollheadjewellery.co.uk/

You can also follow Doll Head Jewellery on twitter: @doll_head_rings and on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/profile.php?id=100002926850027

Doll Head Jewellery is also available to be stocked- for wholesale possibilities, contact them through their website under the "Contact" section.

Below are some of my favourite pieces :)