Monday 17 September 2012

Young Republic.

Starting out in the fashion industry is tough; whether your strengths are through photography, styling, writing or designing, it is hard to get that initial step up on to the sparkling ladder of success...let alone working your way UP to the top.

Recently, I was lucky enough to be invited to check out youngrepublic.com, an internationally recognised online fashion destination, based down under and founded by Aussie dream team, Marianne sea and Andrew Yang.The unique site offers an avenue for independent fashion designers AND lovers to make a name for themselves within the industry, as I myself am desperately trying to do.

www.youngrepublic.com
Young Republic offers a one of a kind, eclectic mix of up and coming talent, catering for both men and women, through their extensive product range. Not only do they showcase mens/womenswear, jewellery and accessories; but also fantastic home ware, for the fashion forward.

Avid style fans and fashion followers worldwide, can shop the streets of their favourite cities from the comforts of their own sofa. Young republic is providing the world with access to fresh, new and unseen talent that will soon be pathing the paths of our fashion future; "We wanted to bring that exciting experience online" says co-founder, Marianne Sea.

After browsing the site and flicking through the pages of endless desirable design talent, I have fallen in love with a UK based brand, "Hey Jenny Jenny"; a small collection of quirky silver jewellery, inspired by everyday objects. The face behind the brand is Glasgow born Jennifer Nicolson, who has been creating shiny pieces of jewellery, fit for the magpie in all of us, since 2009; she describes her style as "interesting and playful" and the collection certainly doesn't disappoint, taking influence from birds, buttons and bold shapes. My favourite piece being the "Flora Necklace"...as soon as pay day arrives I will certainly be investing. Check out the full collection on: Young Republic - Hey Jenny Jenny.

Hey Jenny Jenny Jewellery Collection
Hey Jenny Jenny Jewellery Collection
Hey Jenny Jenny Jewellery Collection
If you are a budding designer with a collection to sell OR if you just love fashion and like to shop, make sure to check out http://www.youngrepublic.com/...I think this could be the start of a brilliant relationship.

Amy x

P.S. With all this talk of Oz, don't us here in the UK wish that we too were entering the Summer Season and not leaving it behind?! Trip to Australia anyone?

Saturday 15 September 2012

Autumn Wishlist.

My FAVOURITE time of year for fashion has arrived - not only is it London Fashion week (and I am desperately wishing I lived in the city or at least had money to get there) but Autumn and Winter fashion has finally started to hit the high street; with the shops being full of enticing woolly jumpers and new seasonal colours to tickle our fancies. 

With my internship well and truly occupying my thoughts and my final year of uni about to commence, my mind FOR ONCE has been distracted from adding to my wardrobe - I have even managed to stay out of TOPSHOP for a good month (OK maybe a few weeks), for fear of breaking my already non existent bank balance.

That is until my dad suggested a walk around Cheltenham...I tried on the entire contents of most shops on the high street and wanted EVERYTHING; they even had my size in most things, (this never happens)...which didn't help with my frantic urge to spend money.

Whilst managing (shockingly) to keep my pennies securely in my purse, I instead have created a LUST LIST of all my Autumnal wishes, to share with you guys...with the knowledge that hopefully, ONE DAY I may be able to afford to treat myself!

From Left to Right: Patterned Peter Pan Collar Dress, £38 TOPSHOP, Striped Baggy Jumper, £12.99 NEWLOOK, Lace Pleated Skirt, £48 TOPSHOP, Large Tote Bag, £38 ACCESSORIZE, White Peplum Tee, £32 RIVER ISLAND, Aztec Print Hotpant, £35 TOPSHOP, Red Platform Shoe, £110 UNDERGROUND, Lace Detailed Dress, £36 TOPSHOP, Floral Lace Insert Dress, £65  OASIS.




















It may be getting colder outside, but in the fashion world, it really is hotting up...What are your Autumn lusts?

Amy x

Thursday 6 September 2012

Fifty Shades of Glitter.

Designer and high street collaborations are my new favourite thing; fashion names out of reach to an average Joe like myself, suddenly become affordable for a limited time only...I mean why wouldn't you love them, when sexy men (a.k.a David Beckham), meet with the likes of H&M, providing us with an endless supply of enlarged Becks and his...erm...golden balls!

Louise Gray, Scottish Fashion Designer
This Summer (can we call it that still?), a certain Louise Gray has sprinkled her magic all over the floors of high street leader Topshop. Her unique and quirky designs, exploding with glitter and colour, make it impossible not to smile inside; which is certainly a good thing with the weather being as it has been.

Something I admire about Gray, is her playful attitude towards fashion. So many designers get bogged down with the political elements and serious issues surrounding the industry, but Scottish born Louise brings a HUGE element of fun to her collections...appreciating that everybody likes to be different.

Louise Gray, Scottish Fashion Designer
Her style (and AMAZING blue eyebrows) can only be described as eclectic, with her new line for Topshop 2012 being exactly that! She cleverly incorporates colours, textures and hand silk screened fabrics in to her garments; creating a playful look that is fit for anyone with a big enough personality to fill it.

Louise Gray, TOPSHOP August 2012
Not only has she introduced some eye catching "glitter-tastic" outfits, but she has gone that one step further by adding a bit of sparkle in to our make up bags. I am in LOVE with the nail varnish selection and will definitely be buying in to the neon-glitter magic, that is Louise Gray. (Available in Stores from August 2012)

Amy x

P.S. As you guys already know, I am currently doing a Fashion Internship as part of my final degree; where a small team of creatives are launching a brand new retail experience for Solent University AND Southampton as a city. As the Communications Manager of this exciting project - I need as much help getting the message out there as possible, so please PLEASE take the time to check out our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SOpopupshop
And follow our journey through the SO...Blog:http://so-blog.tumblr.com/
Much appreciated <3

official launch EEEK <3

Sunday 19 August 2012

The Olympics Blues.

So the Olympic ceremony has drawn to a close and I must admit, that even though I take the Gold Medal for being the least sporty person in my family, I am pretty gutted that it's all over. Not only did I get in to watching the amazing talent of the best athletes in the world day in, day out, but the hype surrounding Team GB was phenomenal. The whole country got behind the fortnight of events, as London played host, to what in my opinion, was one of the greatest Olympic games to date. The sense of togetherness was so tight that our team were unstoppable and the support from every inch of the country was heart warming, proving that people from all walks of life CAN work together in harmony.

After the strong lead of the opening ceremony, I was worried that what was to follow would not live up to everyone's expectations...how wrong was I?!? London really saved the best till last, pulling out one of the best performances the world has ever seen; with some of the greatest music acts working alongside the thousands of Olympic volunteers, that helped to make the event so great (I desperately wish that I was one of them).

Despite, just getting in to the general patriotic spirit of things, my fashion eye was never too far away. Here are just a few of my favourite style moments from the closing ceremony...


Muse pulled out a showstopper with this AMAZING
 glittery jacket with the GB flag peeking through.
 

Take That were on trend as ever with their military inspired suits.

The volunteers lit up the outline of the Union Jack with these
on trend, electric blue bowler hats...adding a sense
of quirkiness with a light bulb for decoration.

My hero Darcy Bussell rocked out in an electric unitard, fitting in well
with this seasons Gothic Punk trend.
The highlight of my evening however, closely followed by the Spice Girls, was the incorporation of British fashion within the ceremony...and of course my main man McQueen. It was exciting to see that Seb Coe realised the close links between fashion, music, art and even sport; with the best of British house names being flaunted down possibly the BIGGEST catwalk of even supermodel Kate Moss' career. Despite my enthusiasm for the industry getting some of the recognition they deserve, I do have my reservations...the without doubt stunning models - a piece of art in themselves - were made to walk the length of the "Union Jack catwalk" in a some what dated manner. Fashion has moved on leaps and bounds since runway began in the early 1900's, with the introduction to street style and the digital world pushing fashion in to a new dimension...in my opinion, the brief almost emotionless walk didn't do this justice; never the less, the chosen dresses were FANTASTIC.

British Fashion at its BEST.
All in all, the closing ceremony gave me goosebumps, brought tears to my eyes and most of all made me EXTREMELY proud to be British. We are such an amazing country and London 2012 proved this to the world, I can't WAIT for the Paralympics.

Amy x

P.S. The internship is in full swing and I have even been offered a managerial position...updates to follow soon.



Wednesday 8 August 2012

Money Making Schemes.

I am sure that you are all sick of me mentioning the fact that I have no money...almost as sick as I am, being poor. BUT today I went and did something about it, in the form of a good old fashioned Car Boot sale.

Yesterday afternoon was spent sorting through a lot of my history, old clothes, shoes, accessories and toys... I even managed to revive one or two pieces that I had forgotten about. The past has reared its ugly head a lot recently in many different ways and the only way to move on - is to LET GO; and what better way to let go, than to sell on my clothes to a new home.

Car Boot Sale in Hempsted (Gloucester), Tea and Cake Break
Mum and I filled the boot up, at what felt like the crack of dawn (really it was 8 in the morning) and set off to the local bartering ground; with a mission to come away with at least a tenner...optimistic, I know. As soon as we got there, the seasoned professionals were looting around the car to try and find themselves a bargain and mum had to beat away a few pervy old men (who I think thought that I was up for auction) with a stick; but after the initial 20 minute set up - we were well away!

Just a few things from the "Girlie Stall"
Mum was getting very in to the visual merchandising of our stall...I am starting to think that maybe she should be the one studying fashion! Within a few hours, we had managed to sell a large percentage of the goods and went away very satisfied, with a profit of over £50. Just enough to treat myself.

If like me and you are willing to do just about anything for money, Car Boots are an excellent starting point, get online to find a local market (trust me - they are EVERYWHERE) and get money making!

As for me, I am going to put my feet up with a stiff drink...next stop EBAY.

Amy x

Sunday 5 August 2012

London Olympics 2012.

Early yesterday morning (VERY early), my family and I set off to the capital for an afternoon of Olympic antics...with Mum's history in the sport, it came as no surprise that we were seeing the Men's Volleyball (MEN'S being a vital part in my eyes!).


My FIRST dilemma of the day...what do you wear to the Olympics? I didn't want to be the most over dressed person at the games, yet neither did I want to rock up in a tracksuit - that only comes out for the gym! I decided casual was the way forward and opted for a polka dot tee, skinny jeans, black biker boots and a fur trimmed cardigan. I think it worked alright and after a Full English brekkie at a local greasy joes, I was ready to face the day.


Earls Court 04/08/2012, Polka Dot Tee TOPSHOP, Black flower £1.99 H&M, Lipstick "The New Black" Rimmel.
Dilemma TWO arrived as we entered the arena...I don't know a SINGLE THING about volleyball, the way its played or the rules - AH A MINOR PROBLEM! But thanks to the handy presenter and demonstration video, this was soon cleared up and its safe to say that after 6 hours of highly skilled Volleyball, (Italy vs. Australia + Russia vs. USA) I THINK I now know what I am talking about...kinda?!


Polka Dot Tee and Jeans both TOPSHOP, Biker Boots Ebay
The atmosphere was electric, crowds screaming their support, mexican waves and the cheerleaders shaking their pom poms. Not forgetting my Italian Stallion and Volleyball dream boat Number 9...who in my opinion was a huge crowd pleaser! After 5 sets in each match the winners were announced, with Italy and Russia coming out as top dogs.


It wouldn't be a trip to London without looking at a few shops (it really was only looking - as I have NEVER been so skint) and this time, it was a cheeky trip to Westfield...what I would do to have that on my doorstep! Its layout is incredible and I LOVE how high street stores are combined with the luxury of "The Village", including huge brands such as Dior, Prada and Burberry. Dilemma THREE, NO money...a girl can dream right?


Shop Windows from Westfield Shopping Centre, London
All in all an action packed day...COME ON TEAM GB!


Amy x

Thursday 2 August 2012

Hats Off.

This rainy Thursday, I have decided there is no time like the present in getting used to wearing my new hat. So, I have put on my black maxi skirt and white cropped tee and instead of sporting my trademark black flower - today I am wearing a black bowler-esqe style hat, courtesy of H&M.


 Hat £7.99; H&M, Lipstick Shade 128 Rimmel; in "Starry Eyed"
There are so many hats available at the moment, at affordable prices from all of your favourite high street stores...and word on the street is that they are a wardrobe staple. 


Whether you are still in summer holiday mode (desperately wishing I was) and a large floppy hat for keeping the sun out of your eyes is your thing; or you are stepping in to the latest Autumn fascination for bowlers, pork pie hats and rollers, a hat is where it is at...Here are two of my favourites:


Blocked Wool Bowler, £22 Accessorize
Black Pork Pie Hate, £7.99 H&M


I am still a little undecided as to whether my alien shaped head can pull off this little beauty, but as promised here are some pictures as proof of my brave purchase...


 Hat £7.99; H&M, Lipstick Shade 128 Rimmel; in "Starry Eyed", Necklace £7.99; H&M, White Cropped Tee £8.00; TOPSHOP


Happy hat hunting,


Amy x

Wednesday 1 August 2012

McQ.

Ok, I know I ALWAYS speak of  Alexander McQueen - but he truly was my hero and the starting point for my love for fashion...so just allow my ramblings, ok?!

Today's mention is slightly different; taking a look at the diffusion line McQ. as it makes its first debut down the catwalk for Autumn/Winter 2012. What can I say - PURE GENIUS!

Sarah Burton has managed to re-ignite the flame that sadly died away with the design legend back in 2010 and two years on, the sparks are certainly flying; this wearable collection of both mens and womens clothing, couldn't go without a mention.

McQ. Fall 2012
McQ. Fall 2012
McQ. Fall 2012
McQ. Fall 2012
The catwalk was lined with hundreds upon thousands of Autumn leaves, making that satisfying crunch as the models worked the runway. Designs started off fairly minimal yet skillfully crafted, in neutral shades of greens and khakis. As the show progressed bold florals and patriotic tartans were introduced, with undertones of black lace adding that element of darkness, typical of any McQueen show. The climax however, being a porcelain model wearing an equally porcelain laced dress, following a rope that lead her in to a brightly lit forest shown in the distance; some say this was to represent McQueen's own escape to heaven...a truly beautiful tribute.

And what to say about the wild mushroom inspired hair-do's? I think they speak for themselves!

Reasons why I LOVE Alexander McQueen:

1. The designs have a huge theatrical, over the top influence and having always been one for performance arts myself, this is always a crowd pleaser.
2. The juxtaposition of bright, colourful garments against an underlying dark side is exciting and I like to think this is EVER SO SLIGHTLY represented in my own style.

Amy x

P.S. I took the plunge and bought a hat today...pictures may follow soon, if I am feeling brave enough <3


Friday 20 July 2012

Divided.

With no money AT ALL and a long, long wait for the next student loan to come in; clothes seem to have become that little bit more appealing to me; knowing that they are well and truly out of my reach (for now). This hasn't stopped me however, from eyeing up the latest high street additions for Autumn/Winter 2012, making a mental wish list as I go.

Popular high street chain H&M, go up and down in my estimations almost monthly; with their affordable fashion being a bit hit and miss. One thing that you can't knock them for however, is their dedication to bringing us the best prices...which, despite my roller-coaster of emotions towards the brand, keeps me coming back for more. This fashion season however, I have fallen head over heels for the latest Divided collection.Through brilliant advertising both in store and in the media, H&M have created a bold, urban collection, making a statement in an extremely wearable way. In my opinion it even has a slight punk rock edge...which I absolutely LOVE.

H&M Autumn/Winter 2012
H&M Autumn/Winter 2012
H&M Autumn/Winter 2012
Bold blazers, white shirts, braces and hats will be just a few of the key trends this season and I for one certainly can't WAIT to get my hands on them...first I have to convince myself that I look socially acceptable in any sort of hat!

River Island 2012
In keeping with the edginess of this campaign, I have fallen in LOVE with these high-waisted tartan trousers, from fellow high street competitor River Island. Teamed with biker boots (maybe even Dr Martens...if I ever convince myself to take the plunge) and a white shirt, £35 seems a fair price to pay for such a versatile "punky" addition to your wardrobe. EEEEK I can't wait for my favourite fashion season to be in full flow.


On another note, I received my end of year results this morning and came out overall with a FIRST, all the hard work paid off and I couldn't be happier...third year I am ready for you!

Amy x

P.S. I have an interview for an Internship on Monday...wish me luck <3

Thursday 5 July 2012

The Future's Bright

The past few weeks have flown by. If I haven't been at the gym, I have had my head in a pile of cardboard boxes; frantically packing my life away, in preparation for the final move in to my new, previously mentioned "DREAMHOUSE". Numerous Ikea bags, multiple large boxes and one van later... as of last Sunday, the move was complete and the keys handed over.


Moving house always unsettles me a little, being a creature of habit I grow attached easily to my surroundings and home comforts, finding it hard to let things go (perhaps this explains my ability to hoard plastic bags). This year, what with it being my last year at Uni; I am looking to the new house as a symbol for a fresh start...this means going in to EVERYTHING with a positive outlook (someone remind me of this when I am stressing about Uni work) and throwing myself at every opportunity that comes along. Hopefully this will mean plenty of excuses to blog about new and exciting things...if all goes to plan, starting with an internship at the end of the Summer.


In the fashion world, it's not just me that is looking for light amongst all of this dark, gloomy weather. 


(This link is somewhat genius/seamless)


Alexander McQueen, Autumn/Winter 2012
All time favourite Alexander McQueen, have created an Autumn/Winter collection that literally explodes in front of our very eyes. The message in all of the madness being that Miss Burton wanted to celebrate "a beautiful future" within our society, contrasting the constant reminder of the stark reality of the current climate. There are some INCREDIBLE pieces that capture a weightless, futuristic feel (McQueen can do no wrong), acting as a small glimmer of glamorous hope, that this fashion season is going to be a good'un.


Alexander McQueen, Autumn/Winter 2012
Alexander McQueen, Autumn/Winter 2012


With Sarah Burton's words ringing in my ear, I am ready for anything that lies ahead...starting with unpacking.


Amy x

Wednesday 27 June 2012

Chanel Does India

Anyone who knows me, KNOWS how much I love all things Indian...apart from a hot curry perhaps, as I have possibly the most sensitive palette known to man. But yes, (just about) everything about the Indian culture fascinates me, from the bold colours, intricate patterns, detailed embellishment and the art form of henna; I can't get enough of it.


So when I recently spotted that the genius behind fashion power house Chanel's Karl Lagerfeld, had channeled his latest collection in to an East meets West, Indian inspired spectacle; I instantly fell in love


Pre Fall 2012 Chanel
The black and white advertising campaign...in my opinion, is genius. It captures the perfect balance between the English rose style typical to Chanel, whilst effortlessly incorporating key elements of Indian traditions, through elaborate poses, layering fabrics and heavy embellishment.


Pre Fall 2012 Chanel


Pre Fall 2012 Chanel
Not only do I suddenly want dreadlocks, but I am desperate to find myself one of these stunning headpieces on the highstreet. 


Mr Lagerfeld...you did good.

Monday 25 June 2012

Guess Who's Back

It has without a doubt been a while and I have without a doubt been neglectful...but I am back and ready for the months ahead! 

So, where have I been hiding? Initially my time was taken up with completing my year at uni, being the perfectionist I am (and sometimes wish that I wasn't) work slowly took over and any chance of a social life disappeared. I worked hard and to some extent played hard, and am currently awaiting my end of year results. Fingers crossed n'all that.

To round off another action packed year in true fashion style, I spent the day helping out at Graduate Fashion Week as part of the front of house team; it was a long day that perhaps wasn't as glamorous as the title suggests, but the catwalk show was fantastic and proved really inspirational. Hats off to the third years.

After the hard slog, I felt it was only right to treat myself to a holiday. So my boyfriend and I have recently returned from a relaxing sun-filled week in the Algarve; blue skies, sand between my toes and temperatures in the high 30's...as lets be honest the weather isn't up to much here!



Despite having a severe case of the holiday blues and a crazy week ahead of packing up all of my belongings (YET AGAIN) in to a small van and completing my final move in my uni life; to a brand new humble abode, labelled "THE DREAM HOUSE" by my beautiful coursemates and housemates to be...I AM BACK.

I have so many things to share and blog about and am currently searching for an internship within the industry - so keep your eyes peeled for real fashion updates and general ramblings from my mad life.

It's going to be a busy one. BRING IT ON.


Sunday 8 April 2012

The Garden Party.

After a long hard slog at Uni, I am back in my home town for a bit of family and free food time (I have become an expert in fridge raiding). Whenever I come home, everything seems so green in comparison to the built up City of Southampton to which I have become accustomed, as I forget that Gloucester is in fact part of the beautiful Cotswolds.

Gloucester Quays Garden Party
Easter Weekend Line Up
As an Easter treat to my wonderful Mum, this weekend the family and I went to a quaint little Garden Party event  at the Quays, it was host to numerous local stores selling anything from pot plants, cheese, pies, chocolates, cakes and much much more. I was well away, sampling all the food and as predicted came away with a few little nick nacks.

Pick and Mix Sweets

Pastel Macaroons

Homemade Cupcakes
Aside from the food, tv hit, Irish Gardener Diarmuid Gavin was providing personal tips on how to spruce up our bushes and shrubs this summer, Mum was in her element and it got me thinking about what an amazing colour palette our gardens create, proving a popular inspiration for many a catwalk collection.

Erdem, Spring/Summer 2012
Erdem, Spring/Summer 2012

For a Uni project last year, I decided to forecast a trend entitled "Rurban" for Spring/Summer 2012, focusing on the way in which city goers like to incorporate twee country ways of life in to their daily routine...maybe through planting vibrant flower displays and growing your own vegetables. It seems that the predictions were right and garden chic is EVERYWHERE.

My Sketchbook, Rurban
My Sketchbook, Rurban

My Skethcbook, Rurban