The Italian Job.

With it being the summer holidays and money being a touchy subject for many a student, luxuries are becoming few and far between...about the only thing I have been able to indulge in as of late, is a large bar of dairy milk and EVEN THAT was a push. The catwalks for Autumn/Winter 2012 however, are far from shying away from any of life's luxuries, with up and coming trends basking in a rich splendor (some of us have to have the privilege I suppose).

Since flicking through the latest edition of Elle Collections (WHICH by the way is a must-have-buy) one designer in particular has caught my eye. World renowned fashion duo Dolce and Gabbana, once again look back at their Italian roots and channel their collection in to capturing the religious traditions and essence of Sicily. Through layering luxurious fabrics, gold embellishments and mixing textures together; we soon gain an awe inspiring taste for Italy, which without doubt will leave your mouth watering...maybe even more so than my large bar of dairy milk would.

Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2012

Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2012

Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2012

Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2012

The collection takes elements from numerous trends that will soon be inspiring us all on the Autumn high street, whilst maintaining a rich, religious undertone. A particular favourite of mine is the black lace dress above, tying in perfectly with the previously mentioned Gothic trend; the matching veil is a genius finishing touch...one accessory however, that I WILL NOT be adding to my wardrobe, for fear of looking a little Miss Havisham.

This vast selection of garments portray an almost "folk-like" feel, which when combined with heavy gold embellishment, capture the recurring trend of luxury and opulence. Look out for capes, velvet, lace and tiered skirts; as they will without doubt be EVERYWHERE as the winter months slowly creep up on us all.

Popular high street chain Topshop have put together a "Pennsylvania" inspired collection (a SLIGHTLY different country...I know!) that incorporates similar detailing seen in the Dolce and Gabbana show, at a slightly more affordable price. Here are just a few of my favourite pieces... 

Cream Lace Skirt, £40 TOPSHOP

Crochet Laced Dress, £65 TOPSHOP

This season, it is all about LUXURY. Even if like me, your pay packet barely touches the sides and can just about buy you a stay in a travel lodge and a bar of your favourite chocolate...dress like the rich, in true designer style (no one needs to know that half of your outfit is from trusty Primark) and work your wardrobe as though you are a regular visitor at the Hilton.

A Touch of Gothica.

With the weather resembling that of October and my beautiful Portugal tan fading fast, the only thing keeping me sane this "SUMMER" is the blissful knowledge that in the fashion world, Winter is already on the cards. This week I have happily been nosing through previews of the Autumn/Winter 2012 collections for all of my designer favourites, in a hope to try and rid me of my holiday blues; and ALAS there appears to be a silver lining (or perhaps a rainbow would be more apt, what with all this rain).


For my nearest and dearsest, it will come as no surprise that I have been drawn to this Gothic fairy tale trend, with black proving to be a recurring colour scheme within my wardrobe...what can I say, it goes with everything! This season we are once again being drawn to the dark side, the focus being on delicacy and looking "pretty"; which for many will come as a great sigh of relief, when compared to last winters dominatrix, whips and chains trend.


The fashion gods much to my dismay, seemed to have forgotten all about the powers that lie beneath the simplicity of the colour black, in favour of a crisp white palette; but I knew it wouldn't be long before they came to their senses and reincarnated a true classic. This trend really is wearable for all.


Valentino was one of many designers who opted to bring a little bit of magic to the Little Black Dress. Long sheer sleeves added sex appeal to the long lengths of fabric that skimmed the floors of the catwalk in an enchanting, yet mysterious manner. High necklines and puff ball sleeves gave the collection an almost Victorian vibe, which gave a new dimension to the concept of darkness.

Valentino Fall/Winter 2012

Valentino Fall/Winter 2012

Nina Ricci have created a really strong Fall collection, priding themselves on the "moody feeling" that surrounds each garment. The dresses are playful and whimsical but again, sheer fabrics are used by the bucket load, revealing a more grown up side to the fairy tale stereotype. When combined with deep plum lipstick, it doesn't take much to lure us in to the darkness.

Nina Ricci Fall/Winter 2012

Nina Ricci Fall/Winter 2012

Black is going to be everywhere this Winter, so the highstreet will be full of great bargains to transform you in to a dark romantic. I have already been eyeing up a few items for the wish list and have spotted this Coco's Fortune number, capturing the smouldering feel of the winter in an elegant manner that mirrors those on the catwalk. If you prefer a maxi dress, check out this simple floor-sweeping classic from Religion, that will effortlessly take your wardrobe from Summer to Winter.

Religion Maxi Dress  £100 (available at ASOS) 

Coco's Fortune £55 (available from Topshop)

Sheer fabrics, delicate patterns and an heir of elegance. Dark Romance provides us ladies with a chance to smoulder. Forget fifty shades of grey...the blacker the better.