Frankie's Fashion Footnotes

R.I.P Chuck Bass

2010-05-28T14:16:00.003+01:00

It has taken me a week to dry my eyes and remove the tissue paper from my sodden face following the tragic news that The Greatest Hero Of Our Time, Mr. Charles Chuck Bass, ~~is in a serious critical condition~~ has died. The event begs the question: why? Why Josh Schwartz, why did you do this to me? And what will I do without Chuck's smug little face lighting up my screen every week? Who will I turn to in my hour of sarcasm? What will become of Brooks Brothers now that he is no longer keeping them in business?

This morning I stumbled across this. A framed collection amassed by Mr. Alister Mackie, whom like Chuck Bass, enjoys a good bow-tie. It seems a rather fitting epitaph to the man who paired his oxfords with candy cane-coloured ties that the display should be in sobering, somber black.

R.I.P Chuck Bass, and we'll see you ~~next season~~ ~~in hell~~ in heaven. Amen.

Girl got game

2010-05-25T11:31:00.008+01:00

Alexander Wang declared his love for American Football with his sporting Spring 2010 RTW collection. A trend that also scored a touch down at Topshop, Chanel, A.F. Vandervost, Alexandre Herchcovitch, Elie Tahari and Giorgio Armani; participation in this group sport is not optional so best get yourself to the locker room stat!

Splat!

2010-05-18T20:48:00.005+01:00

Designer Heidi Merrick gives new meaning to the painter's smock with her Carlisle blouse. Visit her website for more Art Attack inspired Spring 2010 pieces. Splat.

Public displays of affection

2010-05-17T18:44:00.011+01:00

Spread a little love today...

Bex Rox Seahorse Kiss necklace
Etsy Bunnies Kissing necklace
Alex Monroe Love Bird ring

Emma Franklin Kissing Goat pendant

xx

Say hello to Holgarazzi

2010-05-17T12:08:00.010+01:00

Self proclaimed 'light hunter' Nina Westervelt is a Brooklyn-based photographer with a holga permanently attached to her hip. Her fashion snaps span the catwalk, backstage and front row; the great and good of Bryant Park are captured in all their finery by this Holgarazzi. A welcome respite from the usual straight-ups, Westervelt's photography is artfully composed and never looks too posed. Her flickr site has a dedicated following thanks to Westervelt's candid celebrity shots, and her beautifully dreamy catwalk snaps are often more aesthetically pleasing than the clothes themselves. Her fashion blog, Chic Squared2, is currently sporting a teaser of Westervelt's Fall 2010 photography...visit now to catch a glimpse of what's to come.

Plucky Duckie

2010-05-09T22:46:00.004+01:00

"This is a really volcanic ensemble you're wearing, it's really marvelous!"

Duckie, Pretty in Pink (1986)

While most girls may remember John Hughes' Pretty in Pink for leading lady Andie's eighties ensembles, its Duckie that does it for me. His loud combo of plaids, paisleys and stripes, together with his love of sunglasses indoors, slouch socks, natty shoes and Western neck ties really were the most volcanic of ensembles.

J'Adore

2010-05-09T22:27:00.004+01:00

If you haven't yet visited the Virtual Shoe Museum you're in for a treat. Feast your eyes on these bad boys, from Patrick Cox's SS'96 collection. Anyone who read Diary of a Crush by Sarra Manning will remember its heroine Edie owned a pair. I want.

You Make Me Wanna Die

2010-05-09T22:04:00.006+01:00

Taylor Momsen is reportedly leaving The Greatest Show of Our Time to concentrate on her band ~~Hole~~ The Pretty Reckless, full time. Shame. The band recently shot their first video for You Make Me Wanna Die ahead of their appearance at the Bamboozle Rock Festival this weekend where Taylor rocked out on stage in what can only be described as goth-slut get-up. Momsen, in those clothes, You Make Me Wanna Die. R.I.P Little J. xoxo

Image: Just Jared

Going Undercover

2010-03-08T15:32:00.009Z

Jun Takahashi's AW2010 collection for Undercover debuted in Paris this weekend. Eschewing the formal runway, Takahashi opted yet again for an unconventional presentation, presenting a live lookbook. Creating a mise-en-scene reminiscent of a foreign indie film, the designer employed his wife Riko to model the cosy-casual layers in front of a series of projected backgrounds. Ranging from an airport to a hotel corridor to a supermarket car park, Riko effortlessly assumed the stance of traveller, hotel guest and consumer, and I thoroughly enjoyed the performance. Bravo.

Paris sees red

2010-03-08T15:24:00.007Z

Sonia Rykiel AW2010 rtw

Givenchy AW2010 rtw

Comme des Garcons AW2010 rtw

Ann Demeulemeester AW2010 rtw

Cacharel AW2010 rtw

Barbie goes gaga

2010-03-08T15:12:00.004Z

I do enjoy a good make over, and doesn't Barbie look swell in her Gaga-garb?

Courtesy of Lu Wei Kang, Babs now has her very own weird and wonderful wardrobe to wear to the Monster Ball.

I wonder what Ken would say?

Who's that girl?

2010-03-08T15:04:00.004Z

This little lady was all over the streets of London during LFW. Clad in hairy-scary barbie doll creations, she gave Gaga a run for her money in those shoulder-pads. A little bit of research revealed her to be one Rhiannon Jones, a novice fashion designer from up north. Can't wait to see what she comes up with next...

Picture: Jenny Dyson

I heart The Art..

2009-11-12T22:36:00.005Z

of the Trench.

Burberry's new website celebrates that all-important great British classic I have previously pontificated upon: the trench coat.

Hopping on board the multimedia train that mixes website with facebook connect, the site invites fans of the TC to submit their own snaps which will be sifted and sorted and perhaps eventually selected for display on site alongside photos taken by the online omnipresent street-style snaptographer Scott Schuman.

It's a novel idea and I enjoyed viewing multiple images at once according to 'weather,' 'colour' and the always debatable 'belted' and 'unbelted.' There's also a nifty little timeline history lesson for serious trench anoraks featuring images from the Burberry archive.

My only complaint is this - the soundtrack. Who chose The Kooks Sofa Song to accompany this trench appreciation site? Next time I visit I'll be muting my volume!

The Art of the Trench

Image: The Sartorialist

A charming Skulk of Foxes

2009-11-09T23:39:00.009Z

I was lucky enough to stumble across A Skulk of Foxes today - an enchanting Australian jewellery line featuring a clutch of woodland creatures. The acrylic brooches will look delightful on a winter coat and I'm jonesing for the antler studs made from recycled scraps of silver. Enjoy.

Rabbits, birdies, squirrels and more are available here.

For more foxy fancies go here.

Oh my oshkosh b'gosh

2009-11-09T20:35:00.014Z

I lived in my oshkosh b'gosh dungarees as a child. A tomboy til the age of seven, I returned to my old faithfuls on several occasions after discovering skirts. As a Blossom devotee, I wore cut-off white denim dungarees with a flamenco blouse and glittery jelly sandals to my primary school leavers dance. Needless to say, I didn't get my first kiss that night. That didn't dissuade me from wearing them throughout my first year at high school, grunge style, with a plaid shirt and boots. Oh yeah!

So imagine my amazement to see them crop up once more on the catwalks this year in every imaginable incarnation, from dirty denim to leopard-trim suede. The question is - can I bring myself to wear them once more? Perhaps, perhaps, perhaps.

steve allan

nicole fahri

cynthia steffe

louise gray

ralph lauren

Oh, Florence

2009-11-09T20:19:00.006Z

What a MACHINE.

Seeing double

2009-10-17T19:24:00.009+01:00

Blog Advanced Style rocks my world and so do this pair, Marian and Vivian Brown, the infamous San Francisco twins and Queens of senior sartorialism.

I first saw them in the city ascending the Macy's escalator in matching ruby red cowgirl ensembles. Sweet and smiley, they were also slightly scary in their identicalness.

Apparently the two have only spent three weeks apart in their 82 years together and take turns to decide what to eat and wear each day. Luckily they both have a penchant for leopard print and are rarely seen without their signature hats.

I would love to see the identical duo give MK and Ashley a run for their money in an Alice Hawkins fashion spread...what do you think?

It hurts to look at you (again)

2009-10-17T18:38:00.009+01:00

It's nice to see my first love Jordan Catalano without the guy liner and liquid leather these days. The boy who wrote a song about his car still makes my heart a-flutter and may explain my fondness for boys in plaid.

During the height of MSCL madness, in a hopeless attempt to emulate Angela's 'crimson glow,' I dyed my hair red. Convinced this would somehow magically conjure my very own Scottish JC, I wasn't the only one behaving irrationally in the name of Jordan. One friend actually started drinking coffee "black with three sugars," just like Chase-face did after JC revealed his caffeine preference.

Alas, neither of us ever found Jock Catalano leaning in our school corridors and over time my obsession for Jared Leto waned as he swapped plaid for pleather and Cameron for Fire Crotch.

But, in this clip, it still hurts to look at you...

Location vacations

2009-07-30T12:27:00.008+01:00

London Fashion Week is upping sticks and hauling couture ass to Somerset House this September. Hardly a surprise location, this architectural gem follows in the footsteps of previous LFW homes - The Natural History Museum, Duke of York's, Battersea and Olympia have all hosted the fash pack in the past. But what would happen if the British Fashion Council were to transplant themselves to somewhere a little less conventional? Here are a few of my fantasy favourites...

London Zoo would be perfect for 'guerilla fashion shows' and would bring new meaning to 'stalking the runway'...

Heathrow's Terminal 5 would suit those that pushed and prodded one another to be first in line during last season's fashion week. Fashion's most impatient would be right at home in an airport, watching as flights of fancy ascended the runway...

Wimbledon race track would be a fitting setting for the crowds to place bets on the next big trend as the models raced one another to the end of the catwalk...

Thoughts?

Child's Play

2009-07-21T17:11:00.019+01:00

A recent browse of Browns jewellery selection took me back to my school days when friendship bracelets, dummy necklaces, and jelly rings were all a girl needed to accessorize. Sweet.

Remember those snap bracelets? Kara Ross' croc leather cuff is the grown-up version, with a very adult price tag of £235.

Marni's freakish doll brooch looks awfully similar to one I made in primary school...stick a safety pin in yours and save yourself £145.

Carolina Bucci's £135 charity bracelets remind me of the hair bobbles that gave you the perfect high-pony and an unnecessary face-lift at the age of 13.

This ring may be Lanvin but there's no escaping the Christmas-cracker associations - I would have been delighted to have found a £175 toy in mine all those years ago.

Missoni's gem cuff is like a sweetie bracelet, only you can't eat it and it costs £90. Where's the fun in that?

Tattoo You

2009-07-13T17:51:00.003+01:00

Alexander McQueen, Resort Collection 2010

Armor Amour

2009-07-13T16:49:00.008+01:00

If you are one of the many ladies who like to 'borrow' from your boyfriend's wardrobe, you may want to try and persuade your fella to purchase an item from jewellery designer Matina Amanita this winter.

Matina's first mens collection, Warrior Til Death, sounds like a missing Harry Potter chapter and reads like one too. The rings feature armor and skull designs, and symbols of bravery, valour, courage, strength, and love. Steer his eye towards the golden eagle gob-stopper (below), horse armor rings, and fighting unicorns trio (above), and beware, these beauties are too good to share.

Clueless part DUH?!

2009-05-28T13:24:00.003+01:00

Are Cher and her betties making a return to our silver screens?

The 411 is that Alicia Silverstone was overheard discussing possible storylines for a Clueless sequel with Amy Heckerling. PLEASE let this be true. I need more Cher in my life.

Masked crusader

2009-05-14T14:40:00.003+01:00

The accessory of choice for superheroes, surgeons, showgirls and serial killers - the mask is next season's hat.

Masked balls are no longer required to don a disguise. AW09 is a chance to hide behind a mask and embrace your mysterious side. Jean Paul Gaultier, Emma Bell, Gareth Pugh, and Murkudis Johnstons were among those that featured dominatrix, folk, welding, and balaclava styles. Just leave the swine flu masks at home.

When bad things happen to good people

2009-05-14T14:11:00.004+01:00

Blake, Blake, Blake. I understand you were attending the Met's costume gala but did that really mean you had to go as Serena Van der Boobsen for the night? Since when did you start taking fashion advice from your younger, hoochier alter ego?

A former fan of S, I am (these days) appalled at her get-up. Cleavage, cleavage, and more cleavage does not a sassy girl make. The unbearably tight leather jackets zipped to just below her ample bosom, the plunging necklines that render her boobs and nothing else, and the nasty shrugs and knitted waistcoats are quite frankly, appalling. Eric Daman, what have you done? What happened to the Serena we know and love?

Perhaps we have Blake to blame for this outrageous crime against fashion - ever since series two started I've noticed a definite change in her wardrobe. Formerly demure and daring, Lively is now a little too lively. Boobs, legs, and teeth? Didn't anyone ever tell you that less is more Lively?

The Versace monstrosity she wore to the 'Model as Muse' themed bash wasn't a patch on the lovely Ralph Lauren she wore last year. As for that ill-fitting (supposedly custom made) Nina Ricci gown she wore to the Oscars this year, well, don't even get me started on that...

Baby blues

2009-04-25T18:03:00.010+01:00

She wore blue velvet, silk, tulle and cotton for SS09.

In particular, powder blue. Pretty, pastel, pale blues found on sugar coated almonds and duck eggs.

Swathed in sky blues, dreamy debutantes danced up and down the catwalks at Elie Saab.

Glittery snakeskin Studio 54 divas shone in the palest blue scales stalking Balenciaga's runway.

Ladies that lunch wore french fancy blues at Lanvin.

Tomboys in grey blues gave Wunderkind's suits a rainy day hue.

Victorian lace and soft blues are oh-so-pretty on Erdem's sexy secretaries.

All tied up

2009-04-25T17:47:00.004+01:00

I do love a multi-tasking accessory, and a Keira bow is just that.

A flat, fat big bow made of leather and attached to elastic, these beauties can be worn on your wrist, in your hair, or at the ankle with a pair of heels. Pretty and polished, you can be sure Blair Waldorf would approve, and that's good enough reason for me. At 27 pounds a pop you can buy one in every colour too. Precious.

Chuck Bass goes fishing

2009-04-16T17:06:00.005+01:00

It seems they're all at it, designers can't get enough of the boy we love to hate (or love, in my case) Mr. Charles Bass. Gossip Girl's most stylish character is surely behind this natty Band of Outsiders SS09 get-up, a combo one can easily imagine Bass wearing whilst fishing for another kind of (sea)Bass. Suits you sir.

Get out the baby oil..

2009-03-28T23:06:00.010Z

Shiny, molten metallics are here to stay as designers sent a stream of oil lacquered items down their catwalks for AW09. Yep, I'm afraid those wet-look leggings are set to stick around as Brit designers Stella McCartney, Julien Macdonald, and (ahem) Victoria Beckham featured frocks that looked as though they'd been dipped in an oil slick during New York Fashion Week. Grimy metallic blues and petrol greys gave the catwalks a dirty, sexy edge that is sure to be a hit with the high street.

Get the look for less (and avoid looking like you've just swam through an oil spill) with these slick updates to your wardrobe.

Air Jordan's pewter sneaks are too cool for school.

Those lacquered leggings just won't go away.

Tarnish your talons with Chanel's 'kaleidoscope' polish.

Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair

2009-03-17T18:36:00.006Z

Whether in San Francisco or not, arranging blossoms in your barnet is always a delightful way to start your day.

Gold Saturn's cute headbands come with ready made flowers attached. Just add some feathers for their 'if pocahontas lived in haight ashbury' look. Or, embrace your DIY self and get back to nature with some daisy chains.

Channel your inner mother nature and clash different floral prints with your floral garland for a thoroughly modern look. Or, be kind and rewind to the 70s like Nicole Richie and co. with a white top and relaxed jeans. Best of all, become a rock star and wear your headdress a la Bat for Lashes lady Natasha Khan. Here she is choosing some lovely poppies for hers. Maybe.

Ebay your heart out: Bunnyhut Vintage

2009-03-15T16:22:00.004Z

One of my pet hates when vintage shopping on ebay is sellers who use the term 'avant garde' to excess. Bunnyhut vintage is one such culprit. Luckily, they're also one of the best out there for delightful dresses.

If you're willing to sift through their 80s cardigans and other 'avant garde' items from the same era you may just spot a gem.

Glistening brightly at me from my computer screen is this amazing sequin dress with sheer leopard spots. I want it now.

Competing for my affection is this cute and compelling quilted 'scooter dress.' I can't even ride a bike but I'm willing to try if it means I get to wear this dress.

Race you!

In Appreciation of Aprons

2009-03-15T15:38:00.005Z

I often wonder why the apron has never made it out of the kitchen and into the closet of its female owners.

A few years ago, on a rummage through the stock of a vintage emporium, I found myself drawn to their collection of half aprons (you know, the ones that start from the waist and haven't been worn since the 1950s). Rather than the usual gingham check and floral embroidery you might expect, these beauties were made from chiffon, lace and silk and were more sexy than homely.

I found my friends trying on fur coats and riding boots and asked them how they would feel if I began to pair my mini dresses with an apron. "What do you mean?" asked the friend who has known me forever and should have known better. "What is that?" asked the foreign one.

"An apron" I said, "isn't it brilliant?!" They looked at me fleetingly before returning to the racks. My head hung in shame, I returned the sheer black frilly apron with gold sparkles to its home. Four years later, I wish I'd bought it.

Aprons - pretty and practical. What's not to like?

Furniture for your wrist

2009-03-10T22:43:00.004Z

Ever fancied wearing your sofa on your wrist? No? Me neither. At least not the entire sofa. That was until I stumbled accross this creative genius. Tomasz Donocik likes Chesterfields. As it so happens, I like them too.

Inspired by architecture and interiors, Donocik's 'chesterfield hunters' cuffs are made from hand-sewn leather, gold and precious stones. Luxury with a history, the 'hunters are statement jewellery at its best. Siting them as his trademark piece, Donocik is certainly not a one hit wonder. Check out his brilliant blend of gothic and aristocratic themes at his website.

Pictures: flickr

A child is for life, not just for fashion week

2009-02-24T23:42:00.015Z

I had the opportunity to attend LFW this year to review some shows for MFL. Whilst inevitably waiting for the late shows to begin, I noticed a rather alarming trend amongst the front row fash pack - the IT bags, shoes and jeans have been replaced with the IT child!

Yes, it seems in the current economic downturn fashion folk have declined to spend money on a ridiculously expensive crocodile/studded/jewel encrusted bag and are instead showering their hard earned cash on their little ones. Awww, how lovely. Or is it?

Immaculately dressed offspring sat perched on their model/actress/singer/buyer/editor's laps encouraging ooohs and ahhhs from the cynical crowd impatiently waiting for another pair of ripped jeans to stalk the runway. One celebrity brought her daughter and left her in the second row so she could sit up front, another removed her child from her lap so the cameras had a better angle to interview her. In the queue for the Betty Jackson show, sisters behind me complained they'd rather be watching TV than queueing up at 9 in the morning on a Sunday. Quite.

So why now? I blame it all on Tomkat! Suri Cruise may well be the cutest thing since Elmo but does she really need custom made Christian Louboutin's she's going to grow out of before you can say 'pretentious'?

I say, let the children play. If you really can't bare to attend fashion week alone (god knows I was bored of my own company by the end) then make like everyone else and embrace your NVBF (New Virtual Best Friend) - twitter. Share you're every move and thought with virtual friends who won't mind when you become bored and return to your life-size bag for company.

Pics: dailymail and babble

Get Lippy

2009-02-24T23:38:00.003Z

My new fashion favourite, Georgia May Jagger, is never caught dead without her red lippy. Just like Mum, this Jerry Hall junior knows that a scarlet pout is the perfect accessory to any outfit.

As a little girl, watching my mother apply and re-apply her red lipstick was as glamorous and sophisticated as it got. While some regard the colour as a garish casualty of the 80s, it conjures up images of Coco Chanel and Marilyn Monroe for me. Chic and sexy, wearing red lipstick can transport you onto the set of Robert Palmer’s Addicted to Love video, render the wearer ‘arty,’ or make them feel polished and ladylike. Modern day sirens Scarlett Johansen, Kathryn Heigl, Dita Von Teese and Anne Hathaway are all fans of ruby lips and if it’s good enough for DVT, it’s good enough for me. Mwah.

He was robbed

2009-02-24T23:11:00.004Z

Ok, so he didn't win, lets not have a tantrum about it. Instead, lets celebrate the fact that only Mickey Rourke would wear a pendant bearing the image of his dead dog on Oscars night. He deserves the award for that alone...he's crazy and we love him for it. Bring on The Wrestler Part II.

And the award goes to...

2009-02-22T13:12:00.005Z

Rather than writing another Oscar's post this year I've chosen simply to celebrate the style maverick and master of comebacks that is Mr. Mickey Rourke.

While I don't think this requires any justification I'm in a list-making mood so here it is folks,

5 more reasons Mickey should win...

1. In the immortal words of Destiny's Child, he's a survivor.

2. His acceptance speeches are some of the best stand-up comedy I've ever heard.

3. He cries when talking about his recently deceased dog Loki (I love a man with a sensitive side).

4. Rourke can rock a suit like nobody else.

5. He's Mickey Rourke! Respect.

If he doesn't win tonight I'm going to have a tantrum. So there.

A Material Girl

2009-02-15T21:27:00.005Z

Madonna, Madonna, Madonna. Where did it all go wrong? Whatever happened to your material world? Well, part of it can be found at London's Old Truman Brewery, where the world's largest private collection of Madge's stage and screen costumes and props will be exhibited from February the 21st. Simply Madonna: Materials of the Girl, promises such delights as Ciccone's raunchy Jean Paul Gaultier corsets, Like A Virgin wedding dress, frocks from Evita, and my personal favourite, her League of their Own baseball glove.

With just a month to view the 300 items better put it in the diary now.

The Snow Queen

2009-02-04T18:19:00.002Z

It’s a winter wonderland outside and all I can think about is how magical it would be to lord it up Narnia style in a sleigh of ice and a coat of metallic arms that mere mortals could only marvel at. Fantasist, moi?!

My Snow Queen 2009 guise would include these fabulous wax wing cuffs. Fascinatingly beautiful but with a tinge of the macabre, they are the perfect wrist wear for her highness.

Put A Ring On It

2009-02-04T17:48:00.008Z

Bring the bling with these beauties.

Yves Saint Laurent ‘Arty’ enamel ring, £105

RingsEclectic swarovski and glass ring, £55

Landver ‘Solitaire’crystal ring, £165

Artisan
diamond
18 karat
gold ring,
£1071.71

Fringe, frills and feathers

2009-02-04T17:29:00.009Z

Everyone's in a flap over this season’s fabulous showgirl threads.

Alberta Ferretti, Chanel, Rimondi, Sonia Rykiel, Jean Paul Gaultier and Alexander McQueen are just some of the designers playing with the flapper look for SS09. Showgirl style fancy feather head-dresses, thigh-high fringed slits on cheeky Charleston gowns, and pleated prohibition-era party frocks sashayed down the catwalk this winter.

Bringing a smile to our faces and a flush to our cheeks, this is a trend worth imitating if only for the spring it’s sure to put in your step. Altogether now...

Bride of Chucky

2009-02-04T17:19:00.009Z

Paul Smith borrowed our favourite Gossip Girl catchphrase for his latest menswear collection. His plaid blazers, colour block trews, bow ties, and polo necks screamed : “I’m Chuck Bass.”

We don’t blame you Paul, that boy’s got plenty we’d like to covet!

Marie Antoinette's Barnet

2009-02-04T17:05:00.007Z

When Drew Barrymore turned up at the Golden Globes looking like she’d been dragged through a hedge backwards, her doo sparked mass hysteria amongst celebrity circles.

While her hair may have looked more like a bird’s nest than the Barrymore bonce we’re used to, Drew is actually quick off the mark with her BIG barnet. Marie Antoinette’s hair-raising heights are being emulated by fashion’s most forward of faces.

Blake Lively was seen on the set of GG with a back-combed bob to rival M.A. herself. Meanwhile at Chanel, Lagerfeld has become obsessed with creating height and drama with head-dresses of feathers, flowers and other flights of fancy. Copy Karl and keep your hair high with 17th century props, just leave the chinoise at home.

Sweet sneaks

2009-02-04T17:01:00.004Z

Or should that be cool runnings?!

Finally, a reason to exercise. These Liberty print Nikes are cute enough to wear on and off the track. Race you.

Wear Sunscreen

2009-02-04T16:56:00.003Z

Gossip Girl, series two. So far, so good. But what an all earth was Blair doing wearing a strapless gown with tan lines in episode 2? So not Queen B behaviour. Get it sorted. Now. That said, can't wait for this evening! xoxo

90210

2009-01-26T20:58:00.003Z

Tonight’s the night.
Kelly and Brenda return to our screens, sans big hair, shoulder pads, and dodgy denim. But what about the new kids on the block? Watch this space…

Sunset Boulevard

2009-01-26T20:48:00.011Z

That most exciting of nights, The Academy Awards, is just around the corner and Hollywood’s elite are getting in some practice and cutting their Jimmy Choos on Oscar’s competitors: The Golden Globe and SAG Awards.

Last night’s attendees of the Screen Actors Guild Awards Ceremony appeared to take a step back in time to 1980s Miami Beach, as the red carpet was awash with the colours of a South Beach sunset. A huge trend for SS09, it looks like the 1980s are back with a vengeance.

Holly Hunter led the pack in her Reem Acra hot pink strapless gown. In danger of looking like the biggest throwback of the ball, HH kept things modern by ditching big hair and bigger jewels for low-key locks and minimal accessories.

Laura Linney beat Eva Longoria in the best coral frock category - this Miami Vice hue is set to be the colour for Spring and LL’s asymmetric Michael Kors was an 80s dream.

In a sculptural red Nina Ricci number, Claire Danes managed to look 80s retro and extremely modern all at the same time. Plus red on red is, in my book, always a good thing.

Mickey Rourke IS the 80s. And he knows it.

Obamarama

2009-01-26T20:40:00.006Z

Ok, so I know I’m a little late with this but to follow up from my Michelle musings I must share with you my two pennies with regards to the Inauguration Day idols.

First up, First Lady. I’m still on the fence about her lemongrass suit but I did dig her belle of the ball gown. Gorgeous in a blushing bride sort of way.

First daughters Malia and Sasha looked as cute as a pair of frosted cupcakes in their colourful coats and continued to fuel my desire to dress like a child.

A special mention though to Queen of Soul, Aretha. Franklin sure knows how to turn heads with this millinery miracle. R-E-S-P-E-C-T.

Alithia Spuri-Zampetti

2009-01-22T16:47:00.008Z

The latest in a long line of Central Saint Martins graduates to cause a commotion, Alithia Spuri-Zampetti is worth the hype.

Winner of the L’Oréal Professionnel Award, Spuri-Zampetti's dazzling cut-out creations deserve every accolade available. Alithia sites floral graphics found on Japanese 'furisode' kimonos as her main inspiration, favouring them for their collage and monochrome possibilities. In fact, the result is a collection of razor-sharp pieces which evoke birds of paradise, cubism, origami, and Elizabethan knights. Sticking to a 1950s silhouette, Spuri-Zampetti avoids alienating her audience - the cut and fit of the garment is as important to her as the visual aspect.

Looking at her work is like watching a futuristic anime re-make of In the Mood for Love. That's pretty darn spectacular in my book.

Sasha is Fierce

2009-01-20T16:40:00.005Z

The lady with a glove formally known as Beyonce has reportedly been created to allow Ms. Knowles freedom to pursue an edgier musical style. But could it be Sasha also exists to allow B to step out of those beaded gowns and into something more Fierce?!
Armed with a suitcase full of leotards and a collection of futuristic fashion courtesy of one Gareth Pugh, Beyonce’s transformation into Sasha Fierce is nothing short of inspired. After watching Put A Ring On It for the umpteenth time I am convinced going out dancing in a leotard would not make me look like an 80s reject but a strong, powerful, sassy lady. I may even go as far to consider the merits of a Jacko-esque single glove, a la Fierce’s metal one-hand-wonder. After all, if an image change as simple as this can produce this Diva, why not? Long live Sasha. Fierce.

All Aboard

2009-01-19T18:28:00.012Z

The Obamas are currently traversing their way to Washington, D.C. on board a restored 1930s train cart. One can only imagine the emotions carousing through the carriage as the vehicle speeds towards the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama.
In less than 24 hours, Michelle Obama will join her husband and their two children as the first black family to call The White House home. As popular with the public and press as her charismatic partner, Michelle has enraptured the fashion world with her sharp personal style and strong, powerful beauty and was named one of Vanity Fair's Best Dressed in 2008.

In the shadows of 50 years of Inaugural gowns, Michelle is set to shine. Courted by designers and revered by fashion editors, Mrs. Obama is sure to have had expert advice on hand for her inaugural debut tomorrow. However, Mich need look no further than former first ladies to learn what works.

DO design your own. In 1961, Jackie Kennedy cemented her reputation as a style icon in her own creation: an eye-catching white cape designed and realised with the help of Ethan Frankau.

DO address the economic crisis. In 1977, Rosalynn Carter wore a Mary Matise coat to her husband's inauguration - the same coat she had worn to his earlier gubernatorial inauguration.
DO be G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S. In 1981, Nancy Reagan brought a touch of glamour to the White House with her elegant lace James Galanos dress.
DO support local talent. In 1993, Hilary Clinton supported her hometown by choosing Little Rock designer Sarah Phillips for her inaugural gown.

Whether Michelle chooses to DO any of these, tomorrow will be a memorable day for more than one reason....fashion journalists will no doubt debate how first daughters Malia and Sasha dressed too!

Three words

2009-01-16T00:37:00.001Z

PUT THEM AWAY.

High Brow

2009-01-06T19:18:00.007Z

Upon losing my tweezers to the depths of my mary poppins-esque bag I finally found myself ready to listen to my mother’s beauty advice: I have not plucked my eyebrows for a few months now and the results are quite surprising.

In previous incarnations my brows have born resemblance to spindly speech marks and worrisome worms but never couch-potato caterpillars. The bushy, unkempt eyebrow has always been avoided. However, three months of re-growth have not left me looking like Oscar the Grouch.

Instead, I have a fantastically on-trend pair of 80s power brows that are naturally sculpted and thick and dark enough to draw attention to my eyes. Sandy Cohen would be proud. Brow-beautiful Camilla Belle (below), Brooke Shields, Selma Blair, Julia Restoin Roitfeld, Lindsay Lohan and Audrey Hepburn are all testament to the benefits of big brows. Brow on.

Gossip Girl Returns...

2008-11-13T20:58:00.005Z

I've been having serious Chuck Bass withdrawal symptoms since Gossip Girl's farewell from our screens. Constantly taunted with images from series two on my favourite websites stateside, it's taken all my willpower to stop myself from engaging in illegal activities - resorting to downloads online. But survived I have - taking strength from the knowledge that GG will return to ITV2 in January, and with visual aids such as these. Thank god for the internet.

Tales of the Unexpected

2008-11-10T22:48:00.011Z

December's Vogue features a dreamy, whimsical fashion spread based on the works of children's author Roald Dahl (which include Tales of the Unexpected, the title of the photo story).

Shot by Tim Walker, it is a beautifully composed tribute to Dahl's most loved characters and has more than a little of the Bjork about it. Featuring the elfin beauty of Karen Elson, Helena Bonham Carter, Imelda Staunton and Jamie Bell, amongst others, it certainly beats morose models dressed in black. Enjoy.

"We are the music makers and we are the dreamers of dreams" - Roald Dahl, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Bring Back: Legwarmers

2008-11-04T15:56:00.011Z

As winter sets in and the cold encourages us out of our ballet pumps and into our knee boots, I reluctantly wonder: whatever happened to legwarmers? In my case, they remain alive and well, lurking at the back of my drawers.

You may remember (if you have not already chosen to forget) the resurgence of legwarmers a mere 4 years ago. Worn by many with tights and short hemlines, they covered the curve of your foot exposed by a ballet shoe (or stiletto, if Jordan was your fashion icon).

As a student, they made me feel at once comforted, ridiculous, rebellious and cool. That's a tall order of emotions for two tubes of fabric. Sometimes that fabric was plain and black, in luxurious wool. Other times it appeared on my legs sparkly and pale pink; the FAME extras had nothing on me. They were my shelter in a city of wind and rain and if I'm entirely honest, I miss them a lot around this time of year.

The truth is, they retired about the same time as my flares, Laura Ashley print shirts and 80s batwing jumper dresses disappeared. However, unlike my motley crew collection of 70s and 80s second-hand finds, the legwarmers never did make it back to the charity shop. They remained with me, keeping my feet cosy in bed and occasionally making an outing on a winter run (the run itself happens maybe twice, possibly only once a year, hence the occasional).

Recently, I have seen my faithful furry friend (the legwarmer, not a dog) making the odd appearance on a commuter's leg on the tube, and constantly at my place of work where I often find myself sharing a lift with a legwarmer-clad ballerina.

So why the stigma? What, really, was so bad about 80s fashion? Yes, it was the era responsible for the shoulder pad and blue mascara but it also bore Herve Leger bandage dresses, championed the riding boot, and re-introduced the world to colour. See where I'm going with this? Legwarmers are not just for Flashdance fans, they are practical and flattering, if worn correctly. If worn with a short skirt (I wouldn't recommend shorts, unless Katie Price, as she is now known, is still your fashion icon) and rolled up to just below the knee, they can give the same advantages as your trusty knee boot whilst offering extra warmth! So why not join me people, as I take it upon my own shoulders (or should that be legs?) to single-handedly bring back legwarmers! Rejoice.

Have a Haute Halloween...

2008-10-18T22:52:00.015+01:00

As if we need an excuse to dress up! Halloween is here and it's time to root around in that closet of yours for a stylish get-up which is both camp and sophisticated at once. Sound impossible? Fear not.

It just so happens that AW08 is full to the brim with trends that are couture costume-bound. So grab your gothic black velvets and lace, bohemian folk embroidery and (fake) fur, and heritage tartan and plaid because baby, it's time to play dress-up!

Songstress Stevie Nicks is the perfect poster girl for this season's gothic trend for black. Victoriana blouses, wool capes, velvet coats and lace dresses can be layered with aplomb for the perfect Stevie look. Pair with black lace-up ankle boots and big hair and you've not only got yourself a fashionable costume but a spooky one to boot! Winner.
Almost Famous was surely an inspiration for many designers when they sent Babushka babes down the catwalk for AW08. Penny Lane's fabulous 70s wardrobe of floaty dresses, lace belly tops, denim flares, fur lined boots and sheepskin coats were a hit with Gucci and others for their fall collections. Pop down to your nearest vintage store now or raid your mum's wardrobe for delightfully cosy and carefree costume.
I believe every girl my age is at some level influenced by Clueless in every decision they make, and it seems the designers are no different. Matchy-matchy suits in bubblegum colours? Check. Plaid and tartan? Check. Pleats, boxy cuts and blazers? Totally. Whether you choose to tell people you're a Clueless Betty or Gossip Girl Queen Bee, there's no avoiding these checked suits are totally Baldwin. Psyched.

These Boots Were Made For Walking

2008-09-07T12:43:00.008+01:00

While the majority of the hipster crowd at Interview’s construction site launch party chose edgy blacks peppered with neons and prints, supermodel, actress and make-up designer Lauren Hutton looked fabulous in her AW08 equestrian inspired get-up. Proving less is more and wisdom comes with age, Hutt looks hot to trot in her Hamptons in the City threads but what’s got me in a real frenzy are those beautiful boots.
Part riding boot, part Victorian brogue, with a dash of Vivienne’s pirate and a definite nod to Ralph Lauren, I’m desperately seeking the author of these beauties. Answers on a virtual postcard please…

My Fashion Life

2008-09-04T12:00:00.009+01:00

You can now read my fashion rantings and recommendations over at My Fashion Life.

"Launched in 2003, My Fashion Life redefines the boundaries between a weblog and an online magazine. Regularly updated with industry news, exclusive interviews, reports on latest trends and diary dates for exhibitions, shows and sample sales, the site remains a varied and informative space and focuses on talent rather than hype!"

You can read all my posts for MFL: here. I'll be contributing twice a week but fear not, Frankie's Fashion Footnotes will not remain neglected. Watch this space for more ramblings.

90s idols

2008-08-20T12:46:00.020+01:00

I'm having a serious 90s nostalgia moment. I long for those days when layering was a fine art form of leggings, 'bodies', floral dresses, culottes, crop tops, lumberjack shirts and baggy tees.

I would like to remember the Kings and Queens of 90s fashion that shaped my youth as well as providing inspiration and hilarity on a daily basis. A winning combination if ever there was one.

MY SO-CALLED LIFE

Besides being my all-time favourite teen series because of its painfully accurate portrayal of adolescence, My So-Called Life also stayed true to 90s teens favoured wares. Angela was often seen wearing (shock, horror) the same outfit in different episodes and is arguably responsible for my first ever experiment with red hair dye, desire to wear dungarees past infancy, and pairing of polo neck, baggy floral dress, leggings and heeled desert boots on a daily basis at the age of 13.

DREW BARRYMORE

Before she turned good, Drew Barrymore was the bad girl we all wanted to be. Her style was frequently described as 'kooky' during the 90s; teaming flowers in her hair with antique silk slip dresses, wedge espadrilles, and vampy make-up. Not only emulated by teenage girls, gal-pals Courtney Love and Amanda de Cadenet followed suit too.

KATE AND JOHNNY

Kate Moss and Johnny Depp were, for me, the ultimate 90s power couple. Gorgeous and effortlessly cool, they looked as good off-duty as they did on. As sickening now as it was then.

BEVERLEY HILLS 90210

It's back! One can only hope the new Beverley Hills 90210 can live up to its older 90s sister. Who can forget Kelly, Brenda and Donna? The Big hair, the body con, the sweaters and pearls...I can't wait for the reunion.

DARIA

A sarcastic cartoon heroine is hard to find, even more impossible is to find not one but two in the fine form of Daria and Jane. Daria was as acerbically funny as it was stylish. I loved D and J's allegiance to army boots and mini skirts, muted colours and baggy top layers.

BLOSSOM

She of floppy hats, floral shifts and crochet sweaters - Blossom's dress-up approach to fashion is still a delight.

CLUELESS

If I had to trade wardrobes with any one of my 90s favourites it would be without a doubt style chameleon Cher Horowitz, whose fashion choices were anything but Clueless. Why? Azzedine Alaia dresses, knee high socks, leather mini skirts, marabou trim and dolly shoes all in a revolving walk-in wardrobe, like, d'uh! What a betty.

Gossip Girl Catwalk Queens

2008-07-29T23:32:00.014+01:00

September the first feels a lifetime away when the M.I.A object of your affection is the gorgeous, glorious Gossip Girl.

It seems I am not the only one having GG withdrawals; the pre-fall collections have revealed a wealth of Blair, Serena, Jenny and Vanessa fans.

Not content with taking over our screens, the Gossip Girls are invading the catwalks and taking no prisoners.

Queen Bee's winning combination of smart yet sassy was evident at Shipley and Halmos in the form of this eye-catching citrus shift and monochrome cardigan, nipped in Waldorf-fashion with a narrow patent belt. Add a string of pearls, gloves, and a bow and you have a classic Blair ensemble.

S's siren style is a mixture of sexy and boho and Balmain's little lace dress and moccasins combo is pure van der Woodsen. Cascading blonde extensions, a California tan and a bit of bling are all you need for Serena's so hot right now look.

Little J is quite the fashion maverick what with her nifty skills on the sewing machine and nimble fingers in friend's closets. Sweet but slightly off-beat, Humphrey's all about Wren's school-girl duds. Throw an over-size print tote, on-season cuff, and signature mac into the mix and you're good-to-go Jenny.

Layers, prints, and colours are all key to V. John Galliano's drapes, mis-matched proportions, chunky heels and necklaces ARE Vanessa. Nothing else required.

The finale left it unclear as to whether she'll be making a return but I'm certainly hoping we've not seen the last of the deliciously wicked and brilliantly named Georgina Sparks. Seems Balenciaga's in agreement. G was rarely seen out of cold-as-ice grey and silver and this get-up is just about as Georgie as you can get.

If you're one of the misfortunates yet to discover the joys of Gossip Girl, I reccomend you check out The Genius of Gossip Girl.

If you're hooked like me, get your kicks with this tantalising trailer.

As Gossip Girl herself would say, until next time, XOXO.

What happened to 'Carrie'?

2008-06-05T16:46:00.009+01:00

Did anyone else notice the absence of Carrie's name necklace in the Sex and the City film? Considering its prominence in the final episode of the series, and the fact that you can buy your very own 'as worn by Carrie Bradshaw' necklace on costume designer Patricia Field's website, I was surprised and quite frankly a little disorientated by its M.I.A status on SJP's chest throughout the entirety of the (most fabulous I must say) film.

As multi-tasking as Film Carrie's string of pearls were, I longed for some of the carefree, child-like abandon with which Television Carrie put together an outfit. While I appreciated Pat Field and Sarah Jessica's desire to reflect the characters' maturity not only through their dialogue but also their wardrobe, I do believe there are other ways to do so than having them constantly co-ordinate!

Known for their individual and uncomprimising styles; Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha were alarmingly similiar in their most recent reincarnation. Perhaps most painfully so at a Mexico restaurant, the fabulous foursome looked ridiculous in matching floor length gowns in a cocktail of tequila sunrise colours. At Bryant Park, the effect was more pleasing as their ice-queen hued ensembles blended in beautifully with a snow covered background. However the most glaringly obvious was not between the fabulous four, it was in fact Samantha and Smith's his and hers black sequin dressing gowns that flew the flag for co-ordination. They were almost as camp as Stanford's suits!

Matching moda aside, the film certainly had its moments. My favourite five had to be:

1. The simply gorgeous feathered wedding dress Carrie tries on first at her Vogue shoot. So beautiful me and my companion felt the need to tell each other so.
2. The Eiffel Tower bag by Timmy Woods carried by Carrie. What I love about this bag is that it screams CB. Perfect accessorising from PF.
3. Samantha and Smith's matching robes. See above.
4. Charlotte's black gown for Carrie's wedding. While everyone else was swooning over the Westwood wedding dress, I only had eyes for Charlotte's gorgeous mermaid like frock.
5. Miranda and Steve's Brooklyn Bridge reunion. Not a fashion moment but for me this was the better than any designer or vintage creation. Priceless.

If you haven't already seen the film then all I can say is, why on earth are you reading this?! Don't spoil yourself anymore and get thee to a cinema pronto.
For those of you who have seen the film, I'm sure you'll agree with me going to see it a second time wouldn't be at all shameful but a guilty pleasure. Fabulous.

Octovision: Sweet and Creepy

2008-05-28T19:36:00.015+01:00

"Sweet and creepy at the same time" is how one silversmith described their octopus pendant necklace. And I can see why.

For me, 'octopus' can mean cuddly, cartooned eyed, and cute, or blood sucking, strangling, and slimy. Either way, it's not exactly what I'd imagine I'd want wrapping itself around my neck, curling round my finger, or pinned to my lapel. However, I must admit, a quick browse of the wave of octopus jewelry and I'm ready to do just that. Snap him up while you can and flaunt your inner sea goddess with one of these beauties...

Reform Jewelry's beautifully abstract gold necklace is simple yet stunning.

Perhaps the most original of all, OctopusMe's sterling silver creations include these interesting earrings.

Stephen Douglas' white gold, diamond and pearl ring makes for a glamorous octopus.

If you're a tatty devine fan, you're bound to love Alex and Chloe's natty silhouette pendants.

Celebrity fans Mischa Barton and SJP should snap up this cute Kenneth Jay Lane turquoise and crystal ring.

Another OctopusMe creation, these suction cup stacking rings might not sound so pretty but they sure are nice to look at.

This Autore beauty will glam up anywhere you wish to pin it.

For those of you who like your necklaces loaded with vintage charm, then look no further than MadArtJewelry's 'deconstructed' charm necklace.

Got some money burning a hole in that fur coat of yours? Why not drop a grand or two on this showstopping Reef Jewelry platinum ring with a twist.

Happy shopping! x

Having a fashion moment: Pushing Daisies

2008-05-26T16:42:00.010+01:00

The fantastically sweet and dreamy dramedy Pushing Daisies is a visual delight in every way. Framed beautifully on screen, the carefully constructed set and costume design is a technicolour treat.

An alluring mixture of Alice in Wonderland, Audrey Hepburn, Amelie, Despertae Housewives' Bree, and songstress Kate Nash, Pushing Daisies Charlotte "Chuck" Charles is always perfectly put together in full-skirted 50s skirts and dresses, accessorised with ladylike wrist gloves, januty little hats, and shiny red lips. Part homemaker, part femme fatale, Chuck keeps things interesting by covering up with sharp trench coats, Jackie-O shades, and silk head scarfs. Steering clear of black, grey and white, Chuck champions colour and bold, beautiful prints.
Get the Chuck look at Carolina Herrera, Banana Republic, Anthropologie, Laura Ashley, DKNY and, especially, vintage. Happy shopping!

Ebay your heart out: Shareen Vintage

2008-05-26T15:39:00.009+01:00

Ebays' Shareen Vinatge is the place to go for summer-loving sirens who like to flaunt some flesh in flirty frocks.

With a small but perfect collection of 70s and 80s mini and maxi numbers, most Shareen Vintage dresses have been re-worked to add a modern edge. Free flowing 70s maxi dresses and seriously sexy 80s body con minis will take you nicely from a picnic to a party.

My favourite number is this bright and breezy pucci-esque paisley mini dress, with gold chain straps and a definite Nicole Richie vibe.

You've got less than 12 hours to snap it up before I do! Happy bidding.

S/S Trend Report '08

2008-04-22T23:04:00.015+01:00

All That Glitters…is gold.
S/S 08 collections were given the golden touch with a treasure chest of sequins, mirrored discs, chains, glitter and jewels burnishing dresses, coats, trousers and tops, shoes and bags.

Sexy and glamorous, gold sequins lit up almost every catwalk. My favourites were the Studio 54-esque items: Givenchy’s leggings, Jean Paul Gaultier’s sailor trousers, and Derek Lam’s dressing gown coat.
Givenchy S/S 08
Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 08

Causing mass hysteria amongst shiny happy celebs like Ashley Olsen, were Missoni's dresses and waistcoats, given an extra dose of gilt with the occasional colours-of-the-rainbow jewel studded between luscious layers of gold and silver sequins.
Ashley Olsen in Missoni S/S 08

Silver was also present in Chanel’s Ice Queen themed couture collection; updating classic suits and coats, shimmering silver threads added interest to knits, while pure as snow white dresses were given a silver lining with a sequin trim, and models hair shone with glittery headbands and twinkling tiaras.
Gold chains, sparkling white jewels, glittery fabrics and silver knits gave an otherwise conservative collection youthful appeal aplenty at Moschino. Mirror discs and jewelled panels were all uniform and present at Armani Prive, Naeem Khan and Missoni, lending an understated layer of embellishment to gorgeous gowns and flirty frocks.
Moschino S/S 08

Lanvin was one of the few designers who chose to use sequins and shimmer to give further dimenison to drapes of black fabric, and sent a dress down the runway in this season’s favourite hue, yellow, dripping with sunshine coloured sequins and feathers.
Lanvin S/S 08

Taking their inspiration from the catwalks, high street stalwarts have embraced the trend with magpie-like enthusiasm, showering their collections with gold dust and attracting more attention than usual with their luminous styles. So while you may not have enough gold in your pocket to splurge on Gaultier, rest assured that Topshop have you covered (in gold).

If you prefer grosgrain to glitter, satin to sequins, and are less rock chick and more Pretty Ballerina then fear not.

Feminine and romantic styles made a comeback this season as ballet-inspired fashion and beauty floated up the runways to riotous applause. At once elegant, innocent and chic, ballerina style influenced many a S/S 08 catwalk and continues to dominate F/W 08 shows. Worn with blush pink tulle tutus at Blumarine, the dancer’s warm-up garment of choice the cardigan will take you nicely from summer into winter as a cute cover up. With summer fast approaching though, who wants to think about winter?
Let Pretty in Pink be your summer mantra as the colour was seen sweetening up Ruffian’s, Barbara Tfank’s, and Martin Grant’s collections, and adding a fabulous futuristic finish to Jil Sander’s sporty styles.
Molly Ringwald is Pretty in Pink
Martin Grant S/S 08

At Givency, dresses channelled Swan Lake with feathered skirts and ruffled tutus, finished off with ribbon-tie sandals. Lanvin also favoured feathers and strong, jewel colours found in Renoir’s ballerina paintings.
Givenchy S/S 08

At 3.1 Phillip Lim, the designer embraced off-duty dance wear, layering stretchy tube stops and tutus with sporty jackets in muted colours.
3.1 Phillip Lim S/S 08

Chanel returned to its roots with frilly and flouncy frocks paired with chic ballet flats.

Chanel S/S 08

Perhaps most noteable though, was the return of the dancer’s hairstyle of choice: the bun.

Worn towards the front of the head to give the appearance of a hat, the over-exaggerated bun was everywhere. So if ruffles, chiffon, tutus and pink are too girly for you, add a directional spin on the trend to your outfit with a giant messy bun, adorned with a sparkly gold bow. Two trends in one? My work is done.

Exactitudes: a contraction of exact and attitude.

2008-04-06T19:01:00.010+01:00

Currently exhibiting in Selfridges, in collaboration with The Photographers’ Gallery, is photographer Ari Versluis and stylist Ellie Uyttenbroek's fantastic Exactitdes. Their ongoing project consists of images that alude to our desire to both conform and rebel when choosing what to wear; resulting in a fascinating, and often humorous, insight into self-expression, identity, and fashion.

Since the exhibition opened on 26 February, Ari and Ellie have been recruiting on the streets of London to add to their collection of fashion 'types' found so far on the streets of Rotterdam, New York, Bordeaux and Rio Janiero, among others. The third revised edition of 'Exactitudes' was published last year and A and E's photographs have appeared in L'Uomo Vogue, i-D, Blvd., The Sunday Times style supplement and New York Magazine to name but a few.

A large selection of their images are available to view at www.exactitudes.com- get yourself down to Selfridges now and you might just be next!

ABC of Fashion Week Trends

2008-03-10T19:36:00.021Z

This year's fashion weeks have unearthed a wealth of wearable and classic trends. Here is my ABC of fashion week designers' take on the most luscious looks.

A is for Aquascutum

In London, Aquascutum did monosyllabic colour to perfection. A simple palette of black, white and red was accented with flashes of cobalt blue and smidgens of gold.

Winter coats littered Aquascutum's runway in varying styles from modest to militant. The cape collar and shiny buttons on this coat save it from being labelled boring black and add to its classic with a twist appearance.

Flashes of white were added with the addition of this extremely wearable looking wool dress which looks as magnificent in monochrome as it would with any of the colourful coats it accompanied.

One of many red dresses this season, Aquascutum's chic cut and detailing makes for a refreshing change from the numerous ostentatious scarlett creations seen so far.

B is for Blumarine

In Milan, Anna Molinari for Blumarine sent some of the sweetest frills and feathers seen on any catwalk so far. Pale pinks were complimented with trimmings of sleek fur and sparkling sequins.

Cute cardies were kept interesting with clashing of textures including cashmere, chiffon, sequins and fur. These ensembles are anything but boring with their girly yet sophisticated allure.

Feathers fluttered all over the catwalk this season. Sexy but sweet, Molinari kept things light with this barely-there dress.

C is for Carolina Herrera

In New York, Carolina Herrera embraced our feathered friends also but unlike Molinari she used them to give a certain edge and fierce note to her clothes. Autumnal oranges, reds and greens went well with birds of prey's plumage as Herrera made hunting haute couture.

With the return of Halston, 70s styles were obligatory at most shows. Herrera updates this burnt orange 70s gown with a feathered collar bone.

A feather-print dress is given an eccentric touch with hunting hat and boots in flattering fall colours.

Not ignoring the gothic trend seen especially at London Fashion Week, Herrera chose to give the look a polished update with golden touches and black patent leather boots.

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: The Bowl Cut

2008-03-10T18:19:00.017Z

As someone who is still recovering from the revolting return of the mullet, I am quaking in my boots at the thought of the reappearance of yet another dodgy-do': the bowl cut.
But why? I hear you cry. Other than the mighty Karen O, few have ever pulled off the style that warrants the insult 'pudding face.' Yet, for some strange and unthinkable reason the bowl cut has been seen everywhere recently - from silver screen to catwalk chic.

In No Country For Old Men, Javier Bardem wore his bowl cut with award-worthy results. Surely the fact that his haircut added to the terrifying nature of his character is enough to warrant the ban of such haircuts off the screen? Not according to Yves Saint Laurent's latest collection.

Italian Stefano Pilato sent his models down the YSL runway in shiny, black gossamer bowl cut wigs, which all but obscured the poor models vision but cleverly diverted our attention from their faces onto the clothes. While this works well on the catwalk, I can't see anyone drawing attention to anything BUT their hair should they be stupid enough to adopt the pudding style. Best leave this one to Karen and embrace the BIG hair comeback. After all, who would you rather trade places with, Bardot or Bardem? Thought so.

Foxy Lady

2008-03-03T20:25:00.006Z

It seems only fair the fashion industry end its fixation with Owls and move onto a more grown up, dangerous, handsome icon: Foxy! That's right, foxes have been seen all over the catwalk with Jean Paul Gaultier taking the trend quite literally, sending his models down the runway with russet hair, feline kohl-rimmed eyes and, eh, fox skins on their heads.

Jean Paul Gaultier's Foxy

A more subtle (and safe) approach may be to interpret the look as many did with Foxy's predecessor Owl: invest in some fox jewellery.

A good start would be new kids on the block Zoe and Morgan's cute and very wearable collection cheekily titled 'Hey Foxy' which features an adorable gold fox ring for the bargainly sum of 60 pounds www.zoeandmorgan.com

I am adoring cuff links at the moment and what better way to show off slight wrists than with some foxy friends at your side? My favourite can be found at www.phoenixdesignjewellery.com

If crafty's more your bag then you may be delighted as I was to discover this natty necklace which is sure to have you stand out from the crowd www.chocosho.com

Another whimsical design which would look as great on an 80s taffeta prom dress as it would on a cosy tweed coat is this charming brooch from viennahorses online shop at www.etsy.com - never before have I been so drawn as to wear an animal's insides on my lapel.

If you've been pleased to hear about the return of the sovereign ring to fashion's forefront then no doubt you'll enjoy this knuckleduster from www.sculpturetowear.com

So wave goodbye to Owl and indulge your inner Foxy lady. Foxy.

Having a fashion moment: Gossip Girl

2008-03-02T16:40:00.010Z

While we wait with baited breath for the return of Sex and the City to our (silver) screens this summer, may I direct your attention to another New York-set drama sure to induce serious wardrobe-envy: Gossip Girl.

With a Sex and the City costume luminary at its helm, Gossip Girl is O.C. creator Josh Schwartz's new teen drama, focussing on the students of an Upper East Side elite private school whose every move is documented by an online blogger, 'Gossip Girl.' While the series lacks the charm of predecessor O.C., it more than makes up for it in the style stakes.

Gossip Girl's 3 leading ladies - Serena, Blair, and Jenny - each have their own unique style.

Serena alternates between boho and punky looks. She dresses up her school uniform with leather and animal print and favours suede boots and flowery dresses at weekends.

Serena

Blair is classic Upper East Side. Prim and proper she wears her uniform with pretty flats and smart tailored coats, choosing pringle knits, blazers and fur-trimmed collars when off-duty.

Blair (right)

Jenny is the only girl who doesn't have an endless cash flow, Upper East Side penthouse and spoilt-brat parents. Cue an emo/vintage mix of polka dot pumps and tube socks in the classroom, with 80s prom dresses and home-sewn catwalk creations making an appearance at night.

Jenny

With its own online store where you can buy the looks seen on screen and countless websites and blogs dedicated to Gossip Girl fashion alone ( try www.gossipgirlfashion.com ) its easy to feed your wardrobe-envy cravings. Yum.

Ga-ga for Galliano

2008-03-02T15:17:00.006Z

Paris, March the 1st.

Galliano's Fall 2008 show was an overflowing cauldron of colourful characters - Alice in Wonderland's Mad Hatter, Grey Gardens' Little Edie and the Great Gatsby's Daisy Buchanan were surely Galliano's inspirations for this most spellbinding of collections.

A magical mix of 1940s tea dresses, voluminous harem pants and silky sheaths of teal, burnt orange and sea green were topped off with giant and gloriously adorned head dresses, hats and turbans. Models were sent out wearing make-up last seen on clowns and sporting wigs made of feathers - think Jem and the Holograms.

Far from his usual avant-garde garb, Galliano has created a collection which can be as easily worn on the highstreet as it can on the catwalk.

This sexy teal dress would look gorgeous

during the day with tan leather riding boots and

a black poloneck. Just add lashings of black eyeliner

and some 60s nude lips and you're good to G(allian)O!

A coat too gorgeous to ever take off.

I'd wear it with everything from my favourite

jeans and converse to a sparkly vintage minidress.

And definitely invest in some coral kid gloves a la Galliano.

Gorgeous.

Loose the strange headgear and opt for a messy

plait or 4os waves to compliment this beautiful

dress. Leave your jewellery at home and let the

dress do all the talking.

Last but not least...

Unless you're planning on going to a fancy dress

party as Jem from the Holograms or you happen

to have been blessed with the fortune of waking

up as Agyness Dean, I'd leave this look where it

belongs-on the catwalk. DO, however, invest in

some fancy feathers to wear in your hair and DO

embrace colour in your eye make-up palette. Just

DON'T do them together.

Lady in Red

2008-02-25T22:26:00.012Z

They came, they were seen, they conquered (the red carpet).

Hollywood's Hottest - Heidi, Hathaway, Helen and Heigl - painted the town ravishing red in the Oscar's most colourful gowns of the evening. In a sea of boring black Heidi Klum killed in a gorgeously sculpted Galliano gown, while Katherine Heigl brought some much needed old school Hollywood glamour to the ceremony in Escada.

KH and HK: Red hot.

New York, London, Milan...Hollywood: Oscars fashion fever

2008-02-19T20:46:00.022Z

New York, London, Milan...Hollywood? Forget Marc Jacobs, Gareth Pugh and Giorgio Armani and make way for fashion's one and only golden boy: Oscar! The best fashion show of all the year takes place in a day and requires only one catwalk, the red carpet. Hollywood's finest gather for a glimpse of the most fetching fashion accessory there is, the golden god Oscar.
Looking to the slew of recent fashion weeks, here are my haute-couture hopes for my favourite 3 of the Academy's style students...

Cate
Hoping to be showered with gold this year are, among others, the effortlessly cool Cate Blanchett. An Oscars regular, Cate donned a sparkling silver sheath last year which proved less than popular with the press and public alike. Personally, I thought she looked ice-maiden cool and not at all like she was trying too hard to copy the big man himself, as she was accused. Open your heavily mascara'd eyes fashion folk, Cate was in silver not gold!

This year I'm hoping she'll continue her gold streak with a nod towards one of this season's most dazzling trends - embellishment. Floral embroidery, every-colour-under-the sun-sequins, and giant shiny discs are bound to attract magpie Cate and rightly so. Le Blanchett knows what looks good on her and light-reflecting sequins, shimmering discs and vibrant florals feature regularly in her wardrobe.

Giorgio Armani's deliciously embroidered florals which premiered at Milan Fashion Week top my favourite embellished pieces seen on the catwalk so far and would look luscious with CB's white-blonde hair.

Giorgio Armani, Milan Fashion Week 2008

Equally flattering would be anything in shiny gold. Yes, gold. I'm sure Oscar would be flattered. This gorgeously embellished number from Julien Macdonald should do the trick. Macdonald's floor length show-stopper is delish.

Julien Macdonald, London Fashion Week 2008

Marion
Marion Cotillard has been working it around the awards circuit in a feminine and sexy mixture of 50s strapless gowns, loose draped mini-dresses and touch-me textures of velvet, silk, sequins and chiffon. My fourth-fashion-sense tells me MC will choose to go all-out with her Oscars debut in an extravagant floor sweeping number. I hope she will choose to amp up the classic ball gown and embrace the trend for ruffles, frills and folds which has graced many a designer's collection in recent weeks.
Marion's shiny dark locks would look dramatic paired with red-carpet-red. Even more daring would be to complete the ensemble with a giant Minnie Mouse bow. Ain't nothing mousy about that look!

Jenny Packham sent a number of beautiful gowns down the runway. None were more awe-inspiring than this though. Gorgeous. Make me jealous MC!

Jenny Packham, London Fashion Week 2008

I'm not outrageously keen on the graphic black beading across the bodice but I have fallen hook, line and sinker for the cheeky inverted fishtail on this dress. Privé-perfect.

Armani Privé, Paris Fashion Week 2008

I'd bet my right arm (and my left) that Marchesa's gorgeously frothy gowns will make at the very least one appearance at this year's Oscars. It's hard to choose a favourite but this cascading red creation comes pretty close...

Marchesa, New York Fashion Week 2008

Tilda
I'm putting my money on Tilton for this year's fashion wild card. And I sincerely hope she comes up trumps for me! It wouldn't be the Oscars we know and love without a fashion faux-pas. It's often these so-called mistakes that delight me most. Bjork, Cher, Lara Flynn Boyle all made me smile with their theatrical and grabbing garb. Thespian Tilda favours futuristic frosted creations and looks far-out fabulous in them. With her etheral beauty and fashion-hanger figure she would look amazing in any of the volume pieces dominating fashion weeks.
Her pale and interesting looks lend themself well to shimmering greys, whites and silver.

Chanel sent some of the more wearable volume pieces down their catwalk and I think Tilda would KILL in them.

Chanel, Paris Fashion Week 2008

May the best dressed win.

Ebay your heart out: Nastygalvintage

2008-02-12T23:04:00.006Z

Nastygalvintage is nasty in the BEST possible way. It does the hard work for you, showcasing this season's trends with their delicious vintage pieces in pristine condition.

Gold metal fringe cocktail dress? Check. Neon jumpsuit? You betcha. Tuxedo inspired dress? Of course! Charlie's Angels flares? Why not? They're all here in fine vintage glory, one of a kind items you can wear with pride.

It's hard to pick one item to flag up but this adorable bubble gum pink coat complete with oversized black taffeta bow pulls at my purse strings every time I look at it! CUTE.

-PICTURE NO LONGER AVAILABLE-

Own it

It reminds me of the Bilsonator's gorgeous Chanel number:

Nastygalvintage's ebay store, check-ch-check-check it out!

Blazin Squad

2008-02-11T22:55:00.003Z

Amen for men!

There's nothing more satisfying than a man in a suit.

Johnny Depp, George Clooney, Daniel Craig...need I continue?

Suits - they're not just for the gents.

Diane Keaton, Bianca Jagger, and now Kirsten Dunst prove sexy doesn't have to be sissy. That's why I'm delighted to see so many tuxedo jackets and three piece suits littering high street stores and the catwalks alike (my favourites are from GAP, H&M, Dior Homme and Burberry).

Tailored blazers and loose, mannish trousers look great at work and even better on the red carpet. Kiki, Kate and Kate have been rocking sassy suits for a while now, following in the footsteps of 70s stylistas Keaton and Jagger, the double zeroes ladies stick to black and white and dress up their duds with high heels and minimal accessories.

Kiki shows us how its done in a 3 piece tux and bed-head hair. Suits you.

If a three piece is a bit too much for you make like Bossy and pair a crisp white tux with jeans.

Or, take a leaf out of Annie Hall's style book and man-up with a waist coat and wide leg trews.

If Keaton can...

Still need convincing? Look no further than this sickly stylish duo.

Vanessa Paradis and Johnny Depp are such big fans of the look they

rocked it on the red carpet together.

The Oscars: The Show Must Go On

2008-01-19T16:30:00.001Z

The Academy Awards Executive Producer Gil Cates has insisted the Oscars will not meet the same fate as the Golden Globes this year. Hollywood Insider quoted Cates as saying “The show is going on, I'm looking forward to it. We're on schedule and, Hallelujah, I can't wait until the 24th.” Hallelujah indeed Cates because I can't wait either! While I'm sure I could live without the highly predictable results and soppy speeches I simply could not survive without the fashion show that is the Oscars red carpet! Paris, Milan, and London fashion weeks have got nothing on the high couture parade that happens but once a year in L.A. Words or no words, I'm positive this year is set to be nothing short of memorable.

Nominees are announced in only 3 days time so check back for my predictions of what this years contenders will be wearing. In the meantime, check out www.oscar.com/style/women for an awe-inspiring look at previous Oscars fashions. Or if you're too lazy, take a look at my top ten below. They're all winners in my opinion! Enjoy.

Canary yellow, pale skin and red lips? This girl

deserved an Oscar for pulling this look off alone!

Michelle Williams looked gorgeous in this

Vera Wang number which had just a whisper of

vintage about it and a whole lot of va-va-voom!

There's rarely been a year I haven't loved Kiki's

Oscar choice. This black lace versace gown is my all

time favourite on her. She had a brand new do' and

check out that bracelet! Can't wait to see what she

wears this year, bring it on Kirsten!

Am I the only one that loved this?! Kudos

to those who take a fashion risk. Bjork, I

salute you.

I've got to be honest,

I'm not Minnie Driver's

biggest fan. This may be

because I'm frequently

told I resemble her (and

her big chin) but we'll

forget about that for now

because this Oscars outfit

is too good to ignore. In

floor-length red she

complimented her dark hair

and creamy skin perfectly.

The red fur stole and emerald

jewels made for an award

worthy finishing touch.

I scoured the internet trying

to find a picture of this lovely

Galliano for Dior dress. It's

one of my favourites and you

can see why. The colour, the

embroidery, the length, they

all look great on Nicole.

Winner.

Julia Roberts was a very

Pretty Woman (sorry, couldn't

resist) indeed when she won an

Oscar in vintage Valentino.

Again, a favourite. I see a

pattern emerging here...

Sharon Stone even looks good

in her husbands shirt! Famous

for her maverick fashion choices

when it comes to the Oscars,

Stoney gets an award for her

originality.

Audrey Hepburn is, I do believe,

every woman's style icon, whether

they know it or not! She looked so

pretty in Givenchy.

Winona before the fall from grace!

She's working the flapper look like

noone before or after has!

J-LOVELY! Yep, she always looks

gorgeous but often her fashion

choices are a tad on the, eh, excessive

side. She gets it spot on with minimal

hair, makeup and jewellery, letting this

gorgeous outfit do all the talking.

All White on the Night

2008-01-19T15:28:00.002Z

Every season fashion embraces a new colour du jour and this season white is the new black.

Red carpets are ablaze with white right now, with Mary-Kate championing the trend in a fashion-forward Giambattista Valli mini and in a classic gown by Elizabeth and James, Mary-Kate and twin Ashley's new fashion line. Ashley Olsen, Rachel Bilson and Ali Larter love white too.

Make like a saint (or a celebrity) and buy your white frock now!

Ebay your heart out: Indiecultvintage

2008-01-17T16:13:00.002Z

I swear Mischa's already a regular customer of Indiecultvintage. Fur boleros, white lace babydolls, rock chic boots and 80s denim are in plenty from this Seattle based seller with 99.61% positive feedback and 100% guaranteed style.

Channel your inner Kate with this darling 70s vintage leather, mink and white fox fur jacket.
All you need is the black charger hat to go with it (lucky for you they're selling that too)!

-PICTURE NO LONGER AVAILABLE-

Kate Bosworth and Mossy both rocked black and white Fendi last year in similiar style...

Photo justjared.com