london fashion week

All images in this post were taken during Extinction Rebellion Bristol‘s ‘Disrupt the Circus of Excess’ action, protesting against the damaging and harmful fast-fashion industry. Join Extinction Rebellion at London Fashion Week SS20 to be a part of the next Boycott Fashion action.

“I want to be a fashion designer” is a statement I’ve clung to since I was a child.

I was that too proud girl in the class at school who knew exactly what she wanted to be and what she wanted to do with her life. I was the one being praised by the adults because I’d decided exactly what I wanted to do with my life before all of my peers. I needn’t worry about how I was going to get there, so long as I knew it was what I wanted. It came from my family, my teachers, anyone who was approaching me with small talk, and eventually, interviewers and journalists who were interested in knowing more about ‘where my blog all began’.

It’s never been an untrue statement. I used to think up plans for hypothetical dream catwalk shows; I focused a lot of my home education work on designing and understanding how to properly formulate research in order to support a collection’s vision. It’s always been there and it’s always been something I’ve wanted to do. But now, there’s this big bad phrase that seeps into every thought and idea I ever have…

CLIMATE EMERGENCY

I’ll take from the Extinction Rebellion handbook here, referencing a paragraph from page 70, written by Matthew Todd:

“With a broken planet, we will have no gay rights, no feminism, no respect for trans people, no attempt at fairness and justice for people of colour. What we will have is a fight to survive and a lot of violence.”

I don’t quote this to compare fashion to any form of oppression or unjust inequality (although it definitely exists within the industry) but with a broken planet, we will have no fashion. The fashion industry – the glitz, the glamour, the trends, the fads, the ‘conscious collections’- will no longer exist as it stands because we as citizens of the planet, will have much bigger problems in our hands.

Well, we already do. If we’re paying attention, we’ll be acknowledging the fact that global warming is already seriously at play. When I originally began writing this piece several months ago, India, being one of the largest garment manufacturing countries in the world, was already facing heatwaves of over 50c, causing deaths by heatstroke, melting asphalt roads and extreme water shortages – but since then, even the UK has been hit with extraordinary temperatures of almost 39c, alongside Paris, France, which reached a staggering 42c.

And although there may be no fashion-related link, the Arctic (yes, the Arctic) has just experienced wildfires due to dry conditions following on from ice-sheets melting. We have also even more recently seen the Amazon rainforest set alight, not only from dry conditions but also through intentional action which was supported by the Brazilian President, Jair Bolsonaro. This and previous acts of illegal land clearing have not only been linked to the demand for meat but also to the demand for leather for the fashion industry.

With the textile industry more polluting than maritime shipping and international flights combined (according to Parliament’s inquiry into the Sustainability of the Fashion Industry), I think it’s reasonable for my perception of fashion to have changed, or perhaps even, evolved.

If someone were to ask me now, “Do you want to be a fashion designer?”, my answer would undoubtedly begin with the words, “Yes, but”.

Yes, but only if I can be assured that my Government is doing everything it can to lessen the effects of the climate crisis.

(Including acting on recommendations put forward by the Environmental Audit Committee.)

Yes, but only if there are regulations in place for major corporations and global businesses to ensure they’re not overproducing.

(I’d like to include this post from Helpsy, which shows a piece originating from the BBC, with a representative of H&M saying that they’re not going to cut down on the amount of product they offer, despite claiming to be aiming in a more sustainable direction.)

Yes, but only when exportation of manufacturing has become less polluting, less toxic, less exploitative and unethical and we’re doing all that we can to support third world countries which are already experiencing the dangerous impact of the climate crisis.

Yes, but only when we’ve done absolutely everything we can to avoid reaching a disastrous tipping point.

Of course, that’s not to say that there aren’t brands out there already complying with what I consider, ethical and sustainable standards. There are, and as much as I never like to imply ‘we need’ anything – we do need these brands to continue being leading examples. No brand or designer can have zero impact whatsoever, even if you’re reusing fabrics and running your factory on solar power, but those who are headed in that direction, shouldn’t stop. They do indeed provide a purpose.

But that purpose needs to be reevaluated, especially when it comes to how the current cycle of fashion works; including how designers play a part in the likes of London Fashion Week, which this season is said to be its last, at least in a symbolic way, for those attending as part of Extinction Rebellion’s funeral protest on the 17th September 2019. (This will be my first time attending fashion week – oh, the irony).

Fashion week – fashion month, fashion season; whatever you want to call it – is based on the idea of looking to the future. It’s a way of the fashion industry, whether it be fast, luxury, couture or independent, showing the world what to expect to see in stores and in our wardrobes over the coming months. For September 2019, it’s a look at Spring/Summer 2020. A summer which will most likely, be even hotter and more unpredictable than this year. 

In my opinion, when looking to the future is becoming ever more daunting and quite frankly, terrifying, the idea of a spectacle as coveted as fashion week continuing on as business-as-usual seems almost inappropriate.

Shouldn’t we be using that time and that energy to focus on how we can make positive changes for Spring/Summer 2020, rather than focusing on clothes that will quickly be replaced next season?

One argument which has been raised since Extinction Rebellion announced their planned presence at London Fashion Week, is that fast-fashion should be the focus and that we should still be appreciating the creative side of fashion month and what it does for independent designers.

What this point-of-view misses though, is that fashion week (at least in the UK) is in no way detached from fast-fashion and that there is a lot of power and influence in attendance. For years, the British Fashion Council (which organises London Fashion Week), has had the Topshop Showspace on the schedule, with Arcadia Group being one of its patrons and we have seen A-list celebrities and major industry leaders grace front rows.

To say it is a hub of creativity that needs to be protected ignores how intrinsically linked London Fashion Week is to fast-fashion and to how much power the event and its attendees have in creating what could be incredibly influential change.

When it comes to my own – former? – ambitions, the phrase “I want to be a fashion designer”, climate emergency or not, is a pipe dream I’m nowhere near close to making a reality. Sorry, ten-year-old Tolly who had plans to own a store in London by the age of 21 and send her very own models down a catwalk, not only are there slightly more pressing matters to attend to, there’s also life and all of its ups-and-downs to take into account, too.

If I am to start answering the “So, what do you want to do?” question differently, I could start to see my new answer as a selfless act because the truth is – the world doesn’t need me to design new clothes. Just like how it doesn’t need an event to predict upcoming trends when there is already science predicting what will happen if immediate action isn’t taken in the face of our current emergency.

Go into one high street store, browse on one website for clothing or keep up-to-date with just a single luxury designer’s frequent collections, and that’s enough of a reason why. Times it by a thousand, and so on.

Even the fashion industry of years gone by doesn’t need me because the material ghosts of old collections still hang in thousands of second-hand shops and the unworn depths of peoples wardrobes.

I wouldn’t rule that option out completely, of course. I would rather reuse what is already there than contribute to the production of anything new or virgin. Upcycled and remade clothing can be done and it can be done well. Take a look at Christopher Raeburn and Zero Waste Daniel for two prime examples. Get me a studio and a new sewing machine and I’m sure I’ll be off with my best attempt at this.

This isn’t exactly a new realisation; that maybe I, and the planet, have outgrown my childhood dream. I’ve known it for a while now, that I would never want to start my journey as a designer on a path that leads to more environmental and social impact. I would only ever want to do it right.

In fact, this isn’t the first time I’ve announced this publicly either – the first time I did, was during a speech I made on College Green, for Extinction Rebellion Bristol’s Summer Uprising.

No matter how many times we say small steps matter, or that we don’t need to do everything perfectly – I know this is something I would have to do perfectly. I could never start creating something that would harm the planet or my future, more than it already has been and this is the mindset that I believe is lacking from those who continue to support fashion week (and have criticised Extinction Rebellion’s upcoming actions).

This is where I suppose you could say things get a little sad. It reminds me of being in London during Extinction Rebellion’s first International Rebellion Week. A young boy explained that despite the crisis we face, he still really wants to be a musician. That’s his dream, as well as having a family. But, this boy, much younger than me, was questioning it due to the uncertainty of knowing if he has a future that will give him enough time to achieve these dreams.

Kids, who are 10 and 11, will only be in their early twenties by the time that twelve-year countdown comes to an end. That’s where I’ll be soon, and if my life now and everything I’ve ever heard about being a young adult is anything to go by, I still don’t have anything figured out. Even less so, when “I want to be a fashion designer” is something I’m willing to start letting go of.

This is an emergency. If there’s anything I – or other designers – should be designing, it should be a life vest, suitable for wearing in extreme heat and weather conditions when the ice has melted (completely) and sea levels have risen.

If I have the time, that is. In between all of the protests and the fear, I’d quite like to enjoy myself whilst I’m still able to.

Will you be at London Fashion Week? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

Huzzah! We’ve reached the final instalment of my LFW Spring Summer 2017 illustrations series! I really hope you’ve enjoyed them. I’m quite exhausted as they do take a while to finish, and that’s without the write-up on top. Let me know which was your favourite in the comments! 

~ MARQUES’ALMEIDA SS17 ~

Another collection for LFW that is heavy on the brocade front, as well as the oversized front too. That’s actually something that has surprised me for this upcoming spring/summer season – there’s a lot of heavy weighted fabrics and fits. It’s more masculine in a sense, which perhaps stems from the idea of gender fluid collections.

Marques’Almeida, just like Richard Malone, is fairly new to me, even if it isn’t to others. I think it’s always exciting to discover something new to your own eyes, because you can get a fresh take on what everyone else is already in the know of, and I’m excited to see more of what they have to offer. This was one of my favourite looks, above.

~ TOGA SS17 ~

Something which I always find interesting is when collections are all about the structure and genuine design of the pieces. What I mean by that is; you can see the structure of how things are made. You can see what should be on the inside, on the outside. It’s like a construction drawing come to life; all the lines that were originally sketches, left and not touched.

A mix of influences made up Toga SS17, and once again, the textures and fabrics were unlike the usual spring/summer choices. Everything is tough and substantial, but frills and pleating add that touch of, well, femininity.

~ WHICH COLLECTION WAS YOUR FAVOURITE? ~
Day #1 // Day #2 // Day #3 // Day #4

I’m going to be taking a quick breather from blog posts for now (I have just worked my socks off with these illustrations), so I’ll be back soon! I guess my drawing tablet and I will see you next season?

The penultimate instalment of my LFW Spring Summer 2017 illustrations are here! Featuring Burberry, ASHISH and yes, you read that title correctly – Crocs; Christopher Kane Crocs to be exact, because the idea seems so novelty to me, I couldn’t miss out on discussing it. Make sure you’re caught up on the past three days here, here and here. 

~ BURBERRY SS17 ~

I think I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m quite a fan of Burberry and it’s menswear, but the great thing about this SS17 season is the fact that we don’t even have to label it menswear. It’s all a part of the whole see-now-buy-now collection (another new expectation for designer collections, I suppose) – gender fluidity; all the lines blurred.

It’s a collection of comfort and Georgian styles, with curtain tassels on velvet capes, as well as 1920s influences. It’s all very soft and flowing, but of course, not lacking in outerwear. Although as I said, we don’t need to class it as menswear specifically, I do tend to gravitate towards the usual Burberry’s menswear line in general – there’s just something much more satisfying in every piece.

~ ASHISH SS17 ~

I’ve always had more respect for ASHISH than other designers, mainly because every collection is always so bold and creative, yet cohesive and wearable from start to finish; but also because of the diversity within their models and the influences and inspirations behind the shows.

ASHISH SS17 is all about Ashish’s Indian roots, and the idea of how love, devotion and faith blend into today’s world and multi-culturalism. The staging was beautiful with coloured lights above head, and a blind traditional musician playing live. It was majestic and gripping and was a true and respectful look into Indian culture. There’s so much controversy around cultural appropriation, but when it comes from the knowledge of someone who is personally involved within the roots of where it all came from, it’s always so much more powerful.

If there’s one collection you click off and take a gander at – it should be ASHISH.

~ CHRISTOPHER KANE X CROCS SS17 ~

And now, of course, the Crocs. A small addition to my illustration series, because I genuinely wanted to discuss the concept and get some feedback from you. What are your thoughts? Is it a true design collaboration? Is it a publicity stunt? Will we be seeing DIY tutorials on how to recreate the look for next summer?

In my opinion, they don’t look terrible, and I am perfectly happy with anyone choosing to wear a pair. I’m just intrigued to see how they work themselves into high fashion organically, and whether we really will be seeing the concept go further than just the Christopher Kane line. Rip-offs (as much as I hate them) are bound to happen, right?

What do you think of the Christopher Kane Crocs? Do you believe in cultural appropriation? Let me know in the comments! 

Make sure you’ve caught up on my previous LFW Spring Summer 2017 illustrations here and here! I’m illustrating two of my favourite looks per day. This time we’re taking a look at Paul Smith and Peter Pilotto…

~ PAUL SMITH SS17 ~

A collection based around photography and an English country garden, it’s quite a different style for Paul Smith, but it works just as every other season does; perfectly. Full of colour and prints, it’s bright and summery and the loose fit and cuts make for perfect pieces to run through fields of wildflowers (which lined the catwalk).

This piece caught my eye because it’s a more three-dimensional take on plaid and checks – the pink squares on this shirt dress have a slight ruching to them which adds to the draping effect of the whole dress. I love how casual it is, and the mix-match style footwear. Really stunning and a fresh new take on Paul Smith’s usual British style.

~ PETER PILOTTO SS17 ~

Sometimes it’s nice to focus on the more fun elements of a collection, but in all; this whole Peter Pilotto collection was fun. It was a floral twist on baroque styles with gold and metallics throughout, as well as embroidered pieces, which were all set alongside bolder, tropical pieces and shapes.

I loved the ‘presence’ this dress came with, but how it still presented itself as casual and wearable with the knitwear on top. Bold colours are always fun to illustrate, and it matches the trend I’ve started to notice for SS17 – primary colours.

What do you think of LFW Spring Summer 2017 so far? Let me know in the comments!

For this season of LFW, I thought I would try something a little different in my coverage of the collections. I usually review the collections using images from elsewhere seeing as I, unfortunately, am unable to attend due to travelling, but I liked the idea of making it more personal to my blog, so for the next few days and for the duration of LFW Spring Summer 2017 (what a mouthful!), I’m going to be posting a few illustrations of some of my favourite stand out pieces from all sorts of designers. To kick things off, I have two sketches based upon Bora Aksu and Teatum Jones…

~ BORA AKSU SS17 ~

I don’t think I’ve actually focused on Bora Aksu in any of my recent fashion week reviews, mainly because I like to mix things up and focus on a variety of different styles, and often with designers which focus on traditional processes and fabric, things can become a little stagnant and uninteresting, but for this summer, it seems like they’re reigning me back in!

I’ve explained this before, but some collections truly are like pieces of art. One of my first thoughts was honestly just, ‘beautiful’. The textures and shapes used are so intricate, and I think that’s a huge selling point for me and designers these days. The idea that a piece can be so thoroughly thought out is actually quite inspiring because it pushes me to think more deeply about my own designs. With woodland and fairy-like themes throughout, it’s no wonder that each dress and garment feels like a fairy tale in its own right, and this yellow number is no exception.

~ TEATUM JONES SS17 ~

I’m so drawn into shows and presentations which have a deeper meaning to them, so I couldn’t not focus on Teatum Jones this season. The show started with a short film about diversity and sexuality; embracing who you are and not letting anyone stand in the way of who you define yourself as and who you love. It was genuinely interesting to listen to, especially as it was coming from real people (all from Glasgow, in a tribute to Scotland). It was interesting to see how it worked its way into the collection itself… in fact, it wasn’t until closer inspection that I saw words like ‘intersexual’ across the backs of jackets.

The collection was a mix of botanical and watercolour inspired floral prints (which I haven’t done much justice in my sketchy illustrative style), alongside primary colours and paint splatters which I can only presume was a nod to ‘painting your own canvas’ and making what you want out of what you have. The textures were beautiful, with silk and merino wool being the main focus. An interesting clash of ideas, but the message behind it all made it fit perfectly together. It’s awesome to see Teatum Jones back in the menswear realm, too!

What are you excited about for LFW spring summer 2017 so far? Let me know in the comments!

So now that London Fashion Week AW16 is over, and it’s about time we get to the reviewing and reflecting! I might be doing a Milan Fashion Week review too, seeing as I’m currently in Italy (it seems rather fitting). AW16 seems like it’s going to be a good one, especially in the footwear department. So let’s check out what happened at Brewer Street Car Park… (All images via Vogue.co.uk)

Alexander McQueen // Anya Hindmarch // ASHISH // Burberry // Holly Fulton // House of Holland // Mary Katrantzou // Molly Goddard // Mulberry // Richard Malone // Topshop UNIQUE // Vivienne Westwood

~ ALEXANDER McQUEEN – RATING: 8/10 ~

Another thing you should know by now from my past reviews, is that I love intricate detailing that takes clothing and fashion to a new level of an art form. I love precision and beading and embellishments and all of the small details that come together to create something transformative… and all of that is within the Alexander McQueen AW16 collection.

It’s very feminine in terms of shapes and styles, with lace bras and sheer fabrics being a key focus, but it still has that toughness running through which I think designers have started to do more and more over the years. It’s yet another collection that hints to space and all things dreamlike, with symbolic moons and stars dotted throughout.

It’s regal and every piece has a sense of presence, and I think that’s most definitely true to McQueen. A big congratulations to Sarah Burton on a wonderful collection, especially since she is heavily pregnant… incredible!

~ ANYA HINDMARCH – RATING: 9/10 ~

After becoming slightly uninterested in the whole ‘novelty’ fashion theme, Anya Hindmarch has won me back again with a very tech based, Tetris and Pacman inspired collection that makes for a good inbetween with novelty and good old, high fashion.

First of all, I’ll talk about how incredible the show was (on live stream)… the set had moving Tetris pieces that created and an incredible backdrop to the cast of models, which were walking down the catwalk to a beat that turned into a computer generated voice before they lined up for the final presentation.

It was really quite interesting and I love the question of “Do computers dream when they sleep?” that went along with it. In terms of the actual collection, I also loved it. Like I said, it was a great balance of novelty and true designs all of course with a classic Hindmarch twist.

There were Pacman handbags, Minecraft inspired faux fur and a nod to previous collections with the fried egg symbols and the sticker covered shoes. It was all around, a wonderful collection and such a great show, that will be sure to be a big hit next season.

~ ASHISH – RATING: 6.5/10 ~

Gah, I really do love ASHISH but I think this season was lacking in something. I really love the crayon box inspired idea, with each look being top-to-toe one colour, but it just doesn’t feel as dramatic and exciting as usual. I won’t lie, I’d still like to own most of it, but unfortunately (and I am being very subjective here), this isn’t my favourite collection of the season which is rare for me and ASHISH. It’s a bold move though, with everything being so simple, and for that, I applaud Gupta.

~ BURBERRY – RATING: 6.5/10 ~

With the news of Burberry becoming one of the first brands to transition from the usual fashion week schedule of see now, buy later, it’s interesting to see what’s in store next. What I think is interesting, is that every look is quite different. There is of course the overall theme of masculinity mixing with femininity, slouchy seventies etc… but I would say that usually with Burberry, you can spot out pieces in different variations.

Perhaps this is to do with the change… with people needing things that are totally new. One big thing you can spot is texture; there are sequins and heavily embroidered garments. It is different, but it’s still very Burberry and I’m sure it will be a big hit to those people who get to have a chance at pre-ordering their favourites.

~ HOLLY FULTON – RATING: 7.5/10 ~

Another designer who always sticks to her routers, showing a definite signature style throughout is Holly Fulton. Although inspired mainly by David Inshaw’s painting “The Badminton Game”, I can still feel those space age style themes running throughout in a slightly mechanical style… whether that’s just my eyes, I don’t know, but I like it nonetheless.

Intricate, folksy style prints across wide A-line pieces are mixed in with organza creates a lot of drama and activity to a collection that could have been a lot more basic. I love the muted pink tones (I’m a big fan of them right now) so that small addition definitely wins me over.

~ HOUSE OF HOLLAND – RATING: 8/10 ~

A meet in the middle of seventies and twenties inspired pieces, I think I’m starting to fall back in love with HOH. There’s flapper inspired sequin dresses (you know how I love sequins, but really, does anyone do them better than ASHISH? Actually, maybe they can this season…?!) and laid back fits in the form of loose jumpsuits and oversized robe style jackets.

There’s also a hint to the ‘space’ trend that has already started popping up all over (we saw it with Versace’s men’s collection). I would say it’s a nice nod to the late, great, David Bowie, but that was only a small portion of his career so we should take note of that. I think this collection is one of my favourite HOH collections for a long while now.

~ MARY KATRANTZOU – RATING: 8/10 ~

I sort of fell out of love with Katrantzou over the past two seasons but I think this one has won me back, surprisingly. Although there are strong, western cowboy themes throughout, all I can think of when I look at each look is; disco. It’s a party collection at heart and that’s proven by the flashy metallics and bold star prints.

Of course the shirt dresses were a big focus, and they will most definitely be an inspiration for the high street, there’s a lot of other things to be looking out for too… like the faux fur coats which is super interesting to see Mary focusing on, especially in such a bold manner. It really works though and I LOVE it. It’s such a fun collection, that you can still class as beautiful and ethereal, just like last season.

~ MOLLY GODDARD – RATING: 8/10 ~

I love seeing what Molly has to offer because it’s always so genuine and you can tell that so much love and genuine creativity is put into her work. It’s also love to see such a diverse casting of models too… it’s just refreshing. Everything she does is refreshing and I love that.

If I were to personally put a pin into what the collection is to me… it’s a bit like the 2010 version of Alice In Wonderland. It’s dark, mysterious but still playful and girly. There’s bright pastel tones in the form of puffy dresses, but there’s still the full, deep textures and darker shades. It’s a really lovely collection and I’m still totally obsessed with her signature style.

~ MULBERRY – RATING: 7.5/10 ~

I feel as if this collection will cause some form of controversy regarding the heritage of Mulberry and its previous collections because as you can see, it’s definitely something new… but is that really a problem? In my opinion, no. I think it’s really refreshing to see something new from such a brand, no matter what we’re used to.

It’s still sleek and streamlined and there are still nods to the shapes that we’re used to, but it feels lighter and I love that. I also love the shoes – I think that’s one thing I’ve noticed across the whole of LFW – AW16 is going to be a good season for footwear.

~ RICHARD MALONE (Fashion East) – RATING: 8/10 ~

Malone is definitely a designer to keep your eyes on. I’ve mentioned many times before but I love streamlined collections that are simple with not too much fuss, yet they still pack a punch, and this is definitely one of them. I absolutely love the use of stripes and shapes. It’s almost nautical, especially with the different shades of blue and the bright yellow breaking things up. I really do love it, and I’ll definitely be looking more into his work.

~ TOPSHOP UNIQUE – RATING: 8/10 ~

With Topshop comes a very similar colour palette to what we saw over with Holly Fulton. Dreamy, woodland colours (and prints) with a strong balance of monochrome at the same time. It’s deep, it’s dark, it’s mysterious and it definitely pulls you in… and dare I say it, a few of those dresses could be classed as sexy. It’s a strong collection and it shows that Topshop are finally finding their UNIQUE feet.

~ VIVIENNE WESTWOOD – RATING: 7/10 ~

When I was watching the show, my first thought was “It’s a marmite collection – you either love it, or you hate it”, so when the Style.com review says that too… well, then I guess that’s exactly how to put it. It’s a classic Westwood collection once again, but that’s nothing new. Every Vivienne Westwood show has classic pieces that you can pick out in each line up.

The shows are rare for that because although you can obviously pick out similarities, it always ends up looking so different with such a different feel. There’s the classic neck lines, there’s the outerwear that hasn’t aged a day and there’s the draping… but it’s all new.

Personally I believe there are nods to the cyber world, a bit like Anya Hindmarch, but then I might just be picking up on similar prints and patterns. It all adds up though… every small detail goes towards the next season as a whole, so I’m sure this collection will influence it.

What did you think of London Fashion Week AW16? Are you excited about what’s in store? Let me know in the comments!

Another season, another collection review! This time, it’s London Fashion Week AW 15. Unfortunately I didn’t get to watch as many shows as I’d have liked as I have been pretty busy these past few days, but I’m still happy to share my thoughts as usual. Don’t forget to tell me what you think about each collection and if you had any other favourites. Images all via VOGUE!

ANYA HINDMARCH
RATING: 10/10

Oh. my. WOW. Another collection which has completely blown me away. To some people it may all seem quite basic but I love the way each season is put together. There is something so satisfying about the way the bags look (and feel, I bet). Hindmarch takes something so simple and makes it into a bold and striking theme. Not only are the accessories divine, but the clothes are too. I especially love the printed jumpsuits (they might be 2 pieces, I can’t tell), and the nods to Little Chef (mainly because my family ate their the day before I was born… haha!). It’s just such a cool collection that is just so appealing and satisfying to look at.

ERDEM
RATING: 7/10

For this season I was really impressed. I think when a designer can really nail a signature style on the head, yet pull in so many different influences and make it work, they’re doing the right thing. Erdem always feature opulent fabrics and show-stopping numbers, but I felt like this season was toned down, yet vamped up all at the same time. More colour and texture than previous seasons. Intricacy and small details add to the charm of each piece and make them feel like a precious heirloom to which anyone would be honored to own.

FYODOR GOLAN
RATING: 7/10

I like the feel of this collection. It still feels like the good old SS 15′ collection which Fyodor Golan curated, but with a more casual and laid-back feel. My favourite elements were the slimline silhouettes and grey and pastel hues. The striking green platform heels keep it fun and alive… just like the My Little Pony character which is featured in a few of the looks. It’s a cool and fuss-free collection but is still dramatic and daring enough to keep us all interested.

HOLLY FULTON
RATING: 9/10

WOW. Holly Fulton has actually won me over for the first time in a long while. This collection was gorgeous. To me it feels like Barbie all grown up, when really it’s meant to feel like a throwback to sixties glamour, which I think sums it right up. It’s playful but elegant all in one. It’s the sort of collection that works for anyone; your style and personality decides what the dress should look and feel like. More grey tones with bold, minimal prints. I love this collection, do you?

JONATHAN SAUNDERS
RATING: 6/10

I feel like the fashion industry just keeps going back to the archives at the moment. One moment we’re going forward and the next we’re going back the other way. Jonathan Saunders’ is still fairly new to me, so I don’t really know what to expect. Another nod to 60’s mods; fun and minimal but hidden naughtiness in lace up boots and flashes of skin. I will say it again, I adore structure and smooth lines so the shapes included are appealing to me. It’s an ‘easy’ collection in my mind…

MINNAN HUI
RATING: 10/10

A brand new designer to me, and I am OBSESSED. If you can show me colour, shape and texture all in one, then I’m sold. How beautiful?! It may not be the most wearable of collections for the everyday gal’, but some elements are just awesome. Abstract shapes, not only in print but in the way the clothes are worn too, mean that there is always something new to look at. A few of the looks sort of remind me of David Bowie and his Ashes to Ashes costume… big shoulders and overflowing material layering over each other. A big thumbs up to Minnan Hui… I shall definitely be taking a further look into previous collections!

TOPSHOP UNIQUE
RATING: 6.5/10

Ahhh Topshop. I feel like I can express my personal opinion upon this collection, so here we go! I like it. Ha! I don’t think it’s anything too special. So many designers are still clinging onto current trends, and perhaps Topshop should let go. It’s too similar to everything that is already around. Topshop Unique is meant to be worn by a specific shopper in mind, and I believe this limits them sometimes. Do you get what I mean? Let me know!

Make sure to tell me what your favourite collection was and if I missed out any gems! I’d love to know 🙂

(Featured header image via London Fashion Week)

Hello, hello! How are you? Today’s LFBW post is something I hope you are interested in… beauty! You guys are always asking me to feature more make-up on this blog, and although I don’t personally love it that much, I thought I would give it a go! I actually quite enjoyed putting this together, so I hope you enjoy reading it too. Here’s a little round-up of some AW 15′ beauty trends. All images via VOGUE!

MUTED PINKS –

I’m a big fan of natural beauty as you can tell, so this is probably my favourite trend I have spotted so far. Muted pinks, dewy plump lips and minimal coverage in terms of foundation, bronzer and all that kinda’ stuff. I think this a perfect day-to-day look and for the colder AW (Autumn & Winter) months when you don’t want to make too much of an effort, it’s even more perfect and fuss-free. The additional strong brow adds the frame to the face, which I also think is a big hit once again.

THE UNEXPECTED ‘POP’ OF COLOUR…

We’re still on the dewy, minimal face trend, but with an added twist. Bold, bright lips, or a sneaky brightly coloured eyeliner added for an unexpected ‘pop’ of colour. Adding a pinch of drama and a clash of colour, I love it! I think the coloured eyeliner trend is becoming more and more popular and I’m all for it! I personally think my favourite way to wear a pop of colour is on the lips. It adds colour and light  to your whole face and can work all year round. What do you think?

PURPLE GREY…

Of course, this season being AW, there had to be a darker set of tones and colours. My favourite combination is purple grey. Lilacs and blue toned purples seemed to be a ‘thing’ this season with a mixed in nude shade lipstick and a hint of grey. A lovely dark but neutral colour palette that suits all skin tones. Interesting…

What do you think of these trend predictions? Are there any that are up your street? Let me know in the comments!

One thing which I love about LFW (and fashion weeks in general) is the catwalk music. I love all the different beats and rhythms that are used to really enhance the mood of each collection, so I thought today I would put together a little playlist for you to listen too. I think it’s really cool to see what music is merged together and sometimes you can discover some awesome artists….

I don’t know about you, but music which is used for catwalks and fashion shows always has something so special about it. It’s the way the music all glides together so perfectly, and the beat in the background which moves exactly in time with the feet of the models. I just love it. I love the feeling it gives me, it’s just something special and I know that may sound weird, but you have a listen. Close your eyes and imagine a flurry of texture and colour, drifting effortlessly down the catwalk.

In this mix of songs, I think my favourites include Wuthering Heights (Kate Bush), Sunset (The XX) and Go Slow (HAIM). They’re all really cool songs, with totally different vibes. I think it’s interesting to imagine some form of collection going along with them… so why not tell me what type of collection would go along with each song? Or maybe you have another song in mind? Just let me know in the comments 🙂

…for those of you interested, my next ‘London Fashion Blog Week’ post, is beauty related *shout from the hill tops*

If you weren’t following my blog last September (why not?) you probably won’t remember ‘London Fashion Blog Week’. I’ve decided to take up the challenge again and write some more London Fashion Week related content. If you are wondering why London specifically, it’s just because I feel like I can relate to it more… I obviously still adore looking at NYFW, and PFW, but for me LFW is my fave. So, just to clarify, my next 4 blog posts will all be LFW related and will be posted every other day 🙂 Today’s post should be taken with a pinch of salt… I’ve always wanted to do a little jokey post, so here is my first ever one…

A big question on the minds of every fashion lover and fashion week attendee is, ‘What should I wear?’, so I’ve decided today, to answer that question. Remember what I said at the start of this post… pinch. of. salt.

#1 – Buy clothes that you would never usually feel comfortable in wearing, to attract as much attention as possible.

#2 – Wear high heels and don’t wear blister plasters because even though you’ll be walking around hours on end, you still want to look stylish and professional.

#3 – Speaking of high heels, find the highest pair you can find. Models are tall after all, so you’ll blend in perfectly.

#4 – Make sure you have one piece of designer clothing on you, even if it’s a fake rip-off. You don’t want to look like you came straight out of Primark.

#5 – Don’t carry a camera around with you, otherwise people will think you are the street style snapper. You want to be the one in front of the lens after all, right?

#6 – Carry a big bag. You’ll need to be able to have enough room to carry around all the freebies, snacks and drinks you collect. Don’t worry about how heavy it is, count it as a fashionable arm workout. 

#7 – If a hat or view-blocking high bun is part of your outfit and look for the day, ignore complaints that people in the row behind you, can’t see. It’s fashion, and they should know that.

#8 – Your outfit should be made up of as many colourful and printed items as possible, this will also help with attracting attention.

#9 – Ditto that for texture (faux fur, mesh, patents etc).

#10 – Wear a massive coat, because they’re all the rage at fashion week.

#11 – Distressed jeans are all the rage, so bring a pair of scissors and a mini grater to distress them even more throughout the day… you want to go for that whole ‘naturally distressed’ look (?!!!).

#12 – Cover your face in glitter and sequins or dye your hair neon. You want to look like you just stepped off of the runway…

#13 – …or you can wear super casual clothes; skinny jeans, a boyfriend coat, trainers and a slick back ponytail. Add black out sunglasses for the full ‘model off-duty’ effect.

#14 – Bring a change of outfit. You don’t want to be wearing the same thing all day because you’ll never get noticed. Update what you’re wearing as much as possible to stay up-to-date with all the latest happenings.

#15 – So photographers don’t have to ask you for your details, wear a badge with your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook links. You haven’t got time to stop and chat!

#16 – Ignore all of the above because it’s all just rubbish!

…like I promise, it’s all rubbish! I hope you enjoyed this haha, just a bit of a laugh but I totally disagree with all of the statements. I just feel like people really go over the top stressing over what to wear. In my opinion, just wear what you want. Don’t feel pressured to dress to a certain ‘level’ just because it’s a special event. Be you, and be comfortable being you 🙂