Time To Unleash Your Naughty Side.

All girls like to feel sexy right? Well the fashion gods have spoken and this season looking irresistible doesn’t have to be saved just for the bedroom. Our inner sex kittens can be unleashed on the world on a daily basis, according to the designers in the know how, so pull out your lace and leathers from the back of your knicker drawer and get ready to sex it up.

Rubber, leather, transparency, knee high socks and boots... All words, some, including myself, would perhaps describe as trashy and it’s true, this fabulous fetish trend draws a fine line between sexy and outrageously cheap, so getting the balance right is extremely important (unless you like the hooker look). When I think of dressing sexily, I immediately think of black, black and more black, but in this case, designers have opted for hints of colour in shades of deep reds, navys and greens to add understated glamour to an otherwise knock out outfit. Peter pan collars for example, play with this idea of innocence and elegance, whilst unknowingly to us, in Louis Vuittons collection, also mimic that of a nurses outfit…a slightly sexier image.

Louis Vuittons Autumn collection as a whole explores all areas of the term “fetish” and doesn’t fall short of all things sexy. The garments themselves have a definite military feel to them, giving the models an instantly domineering and powerful image. I personally think it’s the accessories that are pure brilliance and create the overall feel to the runway show, with the knee high, heeled rubber dominatrix boots being an instant eye opener and a recurring theme throughout. Over the knee socks play with our imaginations, whilst handcuffs and masks add a certain level of kinkiness that all women desire. Kate Moss was ACTUALLY smoking her way down the catwalk, to add that final dose of sex appeal.

Louis Vuitton Fall'11

Louis Vuitton Fall'11

Givenchy by Riccardo Tisci was another amongst the many designers that worked closely with the fetish theme. He used a lot of transparency in his garments that combined with leather skirts and “on show”  black bras for a high sex appeal look…which on paper sounds like it’s heading for disaster, but in reality, his modest shapes and silhouettes added a much needed touch of class, to an otherwise revealing collection. I hate to mention him again, but Marc Jacobs is a prime example of how sexy doesn’t have to mean over the top. He simply uses black spotty tights to catch your attention, which when combined with his figure hugging designs, undeniably scream sexy.

Givenchy Fall'11

Marc Jacobs Fall'11

As you all know, I am a MASSIVE Alexander McQueen fan and will never utter a bad word about the genius behind the brand. However, when coming across a leather harness in the September Issue of Elle I could not help but think, how on earth would this work? And is it, perhaps, taking the fetish trend a little too far? The only words I can think to use to describe it are “terrifying” and “uncomfortable”…but with it being a McQueen piece and having done a little research, I can confirm it does in fact look fabulous (OF COURSE).

Alexander McQueen Fall'11

I haven’t fully thought about how I am going to work this trend yet, but I do own a gorgeous pair of leather shorts and a black sheer shirt that will certainly do as a starting point; this oversized shirt from Asos is a real beaut and ticks all of the right boxes. Over the knee boots are a massive look for the season and if I can master up the courage, I would LOVE to give these Topshop boots a whirl – very matrix-esque I think you would agree.

ASOS Shirt £35

Topshop Boots £85

No woman in their right mind would be able to say no to this seasons sex appeal, but remember the key is not to go overboard, keep it understated, leaving a little to the imagination and let your naughty side come out to play.

Going Dotty For Spots

That’s right, spots, dots, polka dots and anything in between are hitting the catwalk BIG STYLE for the Autumn season, so it’s time, FINALLY to make those nautical stripes walk the plank for good…or at least until next year; because dots are in the spot light and turning the fashion world on its head.

There is something about dots that I am wary of and I have always opted for the safety of stripes, in fear of looking like I have run away with the circus. But this season I am more than ready to face the trend head on and go dotty for spots.

Designers have well and truly thrown themselves in to the world of polka dots and the catwalk looked as though a fashion frenzy virus of chickenpox had spread from runway to runway. A favourite of mine was Marc Jacobs incorporation of the trend, creating a classic range of 1970’s inspired garments, in an array of expensively glamorous colours and fabrics. Jacobs has been renowned for using polka dots in some of his earlier shows, go back 20 years, so the collection proved to be a beautiful revival of his previous work. 

Marc Jacobs Fall'11

Marc Jacobs Fall'11

Other designers that can’t go without a mention are the likes of Stella McCartney and Louise Gray. Miss McCartney, being elegant as ever, created a classic collection using mainly the sophisticated palette of black and white. Transparency added a modern twist and successfully merged masculine shapes with feminine. As you can appreciate, the spots and dots were used to emphasise femininity. Louise Gray took a completely different approach to the dotty décor, with bright colours, clashing patterns and eccentric silhouettes creating a knock out show, that can only be described as “eye catching”…we can always rely on Louise Gray for something slightly…shall we say, “different”. 

Louise Gray Fall'11

Stella McCartney Fall'11

I have already been busy digging out old dotty items from my wardrobe and have even revived an old beach cover up in to an acceptable dress. The shops have all gone potty for dots this season, so there is no shortage of cheap spotty alternatives if, like me, Marc Jacobs is a tad out of your price range.  This Topshop dress is on my MUST HAVE list  when the next pay day comes around, however for the time being, an easy way of inserting polka dots in to your wardrobe, could be in the form of these uber cool tights at only £8!!!

Topshop Dress £60

ASOS Tights £8

Its not only in the way of clothing that dots are taking over, the beauty industry is also having a go. I think that these brilliant nails are a simple and effective way of getting style savvy on a budget, I did my first attempt on my tootsies just the other day and was really pleased with the results.

Spotty Nail Design

My First Attempt (bad photo sorry guys)

I have come to the conclusion that spots don’t have to be daunting and don’t always lead to a look that mirrors that of Coco the Clown…I’ve gone dotty for spots, will you?

I Finally Lost My Camden Virginity.

It’s true. Despite shortly turning 21 years of age and being an avid fashion follower, I have only just visited the notoriously popular Camden Market and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The endless array of stalls, crammed in to what can only be described as a rabbit warren; bustling with hundreds of tourists and locals alike, weighed down with shopping bags and avidly hunting out the best bargains, caused great excitement for me and you can’t help but get swept up in the miraculous whirlwind that is London’s magic market land.

           The smells from the many food stands all merged in to one, tantalising your taste buds and luring you in to the grasps of the awaiting food connoisseurs, LITERALLY pushing their mouth watering treats at you with a fork. Chinese, Indian, Italian, you name it…Camden has it. For someone who loves food (I think I can definitely put myself in this category) you can sample delicacies from around the world in less than 50 footsteps. AWESOME. My boyfriend and I were drawn to “Dutch Dunkers”, small, pancake like balls topped with chocolate, nuts and strawberrys...Heaven.

Mediterranean Potatoes

Dutch Dunkers

When withdrawing my money from the cashpoint before commencing on my shopping spree, I had images of spending every penny on clothes from quirky little boutiques. Don’t get me wrong, there were plenty of them and all with rails full of unique and truly fabulous clothing, but I didn't get my purse out once. I think I was without doubt overwhelmed by the atmosphere and extreme nature of Camden town; wanting to see what was around every corner and inside every stall before finalising my purchases. I can assure you that when I next visit (hopefully I will have won the lottery by then) there is no way I will be holding back.

Jewellery Stands

Books, Books and more Books

Childrens Puppets

Hanging Hearts

I did however fall in love with a beautiful “Indian-style” shop that felt like you were entering Aladdin’s cave; it was full of skilfully detailed lanterns, cushions, candles and fabrics in rich colours with gold trimmings, that were just screaming out for me to buy them and give them a good home. I did just that in the form of some patterned, hanging elephants (random, I know).

My Favourite Indian Hideaway

Wandering around the market really got me thinking about fashion and individual style, as Camden is renowned for its unique selection of vintage, retro, gothic…in fact any style of clothing you can think of, drawing in customers with a massively creative and eccentric eye for fashion. I find it funny that we all say that style is a great way of expressing our personalities and showing off our differences, when in fact most of us are guilty at some time or another, of following the “in” trends and falling in to the trap of the massive dictatorship that is fashion.

When my boyfriend came out with the statement “Do you really have a style?” despite initially being hugely insulted, after thinking about it, I guess he was 100% right. I don’t think I could put a name to my fashion choices or put myself in a category, but personally I don’t see why anybody would want to! There are so many amazing garments out there, why limit yourself to just a few by categorically stating “I only wear vintage” or “I only shop in Topshop”. If fashion is all about expressing yourself which I truly believe it is, then don’t hold back just because it goes against everything you “usually wear”…make a statement and try something new.

Aside from Camden being an amazing day out, it opened my eyes to the importance of individuality and just being you. From now on, if I like something…no matter how “out there” and “different”, I’m buying it and wearing it with pride, as a part of me. You should do the same.

The Crown Jewels.

Autumn is one of my favourite seasons, there is something about the transition of the leaves turning from green in to shades of orange and red that excites me…Not only does it signal the coming of my birthday (highly important) but also a big change in the world of fashion; with new styles and colours hitting the runway left, right and centre.

A trend that has already caught my eye for the autumnal period…despite really only being half way through the summer (well England’s excuse for a summer anyway), is the incorporation of jewel toned colours. Nothing screams autumn like the rich shades of Emerald, Teal, Lime, Citrine and sapphire adding an elegant touch to your wardrobe and waving goodbye to the summer months in style.

It makes a nice change for the colder weather not to be weighed down with the usual shades of brown or black and for a bit of something eye catching and oozing with star quality to steal the spotlight. This trend certainly has potential and is one that everyone can adapt in their own way to be in keeping with personal style.

Gucci Fall 2011

Despite Gucci being a classic fashion power house that remains to be the name on everybody’s lips year after year, for me personally it isn’t a massive favourite. However, for Fall 2011, Giannini has excelled herself and created a 70’s time bomb exploding with rich jewel tones. The endless array of lavishly luxe, flowing fabrics, which boast a range of colours fit for royalty, mimic the elegance of the Autumn leaves falling from the trees, spiralling gracefully and weightlessly to the ground. She cleverly mixes the colours together leaving the runway models looking like forgotten treasures in the bottom of an old jewellery box.

Gucci Fall 2011

Gucci Fall 2011

Gucci is just one of many who have jumped on the jewel covered bandwagon; others include the likes of Pucci and Marc by Marc Jacobs. I am in love with this emerald green 70’s style dress, with the colour cleverly complimenting the chosen era perfectly.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Fall 2011

Pucci 2011

Pucci 2011

I have always wanted a rich Emerald green dress, it has been my dream since my first prom back in 2007 and with it still being unfulfilled, after attending numerous formal occasions…NOW is most definitely the time (and apparently green compliments red hair – so even more of a reason to splash out). Here are some highstreet favourites that will kick start your Autumn in style, in rich shades that will leave you looking and feeling a million dollars.

ASOS £40

Topshop £48

River Island £30

Topshop £38

If colour is not your thing and the prospect of being head to toe in eye catching shades fills you with fear, perhaps try experimenting with luxurious jewellery to achieve the look in a more subtle way. 

Topshop £5

There really is a shade to suit everyone, so go on, give Autumn a proper greeting and I promise you will look as good as The Crown Jewels.

Cakes AND Fashion = Bliss

Anyone who knows me knows I love a good bit of nosh and I have recently become obsessed with baking and making yummy treats for everybody; especially cupcakes – I ALWAYS get carried away with the decorating (and licking the bowl). I would say that eating sugary goods was almost as high up on the list of favourites as my love for everything fashion related. When flicking through the new season of the Elle Collections magazine I was amazed to find that the two had been combined and not only were clothes making it down the runway but astonishingly, mouth watering tiered cakes were also lighting up the catwalk…HEAVEN!

It was all thanks to designer genius Isaac Mizrahi who believes that fashion shows are not what they used to be and don’t have the entertainment and shock value that they did go back a few years, he states "I'm just having fun. And I want you to have fun when you come to my show." He certainly did not disappoint, not only did the dresses match the exquisite detailing on the cakes but he also incorporated cotton candy coloured poodles for that extra bit of show business.

      

I think you will agree that these 5 star indulgent treats certainly have the wow factor, but definitely put my cake attempts to shame...time to get practicing (maybe after a slice of cake).

Globe Trotter.

After 4 years of living in Zambia, my cousins finally arrived safely back in England this week… all be it with nowhere to live, no car and all their worldly goods crammed in to 18 suitcases. They had lots of really exciting and eye opening stories to tell from their big adventure, I even tried an African delicacy  and seeing their endless array of traditional African goods really inspired me and opened my eyes to the new native trend for fall 2011.

This season is focusing on Native American style, as well as the prairie girl look…why stop there? There are so many amazing fabrics, styles and interesting textures to explore from all over the globe and Africa certainly doesn’t disappoint.

All Items are personal and some traditionally African goods.

Travelling is so much easier nowadays and is certainly a lot more accessible than it ever used to be, thanks to Mr Easy Jet  (that is if you have the money of course, which with the current climate is a big issue). However, we potentially all have the ability to explore the world, whether it be the coves of England or Down Under in Oz and therefore, the fashion gods from above are incorporating different traditions from around the globe, in to garments on the runway.

Two brands that have been noted to be following this native idea within their latest collections, are famous double act Rodarte and the well known Chloe. Both however, taking a slightly different approach on the concept, with Rodarte looking at the more classic, pretty "House on the Prairie" look with aprons and feminine dresses; Chloe on the other hand incorporating South American influences taken from the likes of Brazil.    

Rodarte Fall 2011

Chloe Fall 2011

With another key look for the autumn being all about eccentric and over the top outfits, with clashing colours and bold patterns, it seems to me that this could indeed go hand in hand with the new native image. Perhaps taking inspirations from various places you have visited around the world and combining them to achieve the ultimate traveller look.

The world is such a big place and I am constantly picking up bits and bobs from the likes of Spain, Australia and Thailand that can be incorporated in to my daily look. Even if it’s something small like a handmade leather bag or some intricately detailed jewellery its guaranteed to spice up your outfit and give an eclectic edge to your image.

If that’s not for you then the highstreet are scattered with gorgeous items from different cultures that will easily lead you in to the Native land. I personally have my eye on trying out a poncho (and hopefully achieving the look without looking like Ugly Betty) or failing that a traditionally patterned shawl.

River Island £25

Topshop £40

Why do your memories of travelling and holidaying have to stop when you step foot off the plane in England, give the Native trend a go and be as extreme and different as you dare to be.

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

The Last Space Shuttle Landing, 2011

So my boyfriend has a MASSIVE interest in everything space related and over the last few weeks I myself have got swept up in all things stars and planets. With the launch of the last ever space shuttle recently making its final star appearance at NASA; almost everyone has been a part of the space hype…only this time the stars are not only up in the sky but, this season are appearing on the fashion runways also.

Patterns and polka dots are everywhere at the moment, being a hit with both designer and highstreet names, but this astrological print is in a galaxy of its own, shining bright and leading the way in to the “new future” trends of Autumn 2011.

Dolce and Gabbana have outshone all others, with their out of this world incorporation of stars in their Fall'11 collection. The ultra feminine designs feature sheer fabrics and long flowing dresses, contrasted with tight figure hugging body-cons, that overall created an extremely sexy, star studded show.

Colours mainly mimicked the night sky, in deep blues with twinkling white stars creating an extremely elegant, feminine look. However, as the show continued splashes of colour in shades of blue, pink and yellow produced optical interest and a heavy cosmic contrast; which when combined with the dresses created the illusion and magic of shooting stars.

Even the celebrities became starstruck with this trend and Lily Allen was seen sporting a Dolce and Gabbana number on the front cover of the August edition of ELLE magazine.

Despite the D&G dresses being my object of desire, sadly they are a little out of my league and so I have had a look around for equally stunning garments, at slightly more down to earth prices…and it was mission successful! These three beauties can all be found on the UK High street and all for under £50 ; now if that gorgeous dress doesn’t leave you starry eyed I don’t know what will. If you aren’t brave enough to go out looking like a star constellation then maybe these tights could brighten up an existing garment, or even just opt for some star encrusted jewellery. 

Either way, the sky's the limit and it’s time to leave your head in the stars.

Topshop T-Shirt £32

ASOS Dress £45

House Of Holland for River Island £8