THE MILK ZINE

Burger & Lobster

Another addition to the quirky protein focused foody scene, Burger & Lobster ticks the boxes of two of London's most prominent restaurant trends. With an anti-elitist stance on 'no reservations' and limited menu of few dishes done exceptionally well (others include Ceviche, Meat Liquor, Bubble Dog and Chicken Shop).

Though choice is small, the question 'Burger or Lobster?' is a difficult predicament. choosing between a succulent half lobster, a brioche roll stuffed full of meaty lobster or a beef burger is tough.

The purist in me would pick the half lobster with a buttery sauce and bib, but for a lazy quick fix that's equally as delicious it's the brioche roll every time. Insider tip: ask nicely and the chef will dress it for you, saving the effort and the need for the not-so-stylish bib!

www.burgerandlobster.com

Catherine Deane

I love a look of contrasts - tough with soft, new with old, neat with distressed - and no one seems to be doing this better than evening wear designer, Catherine Deane.

Beautiful silks are structured with leather harnesses, adorned with lace panels and latticed with buttery soft suedes.

Catherine, who "... grew up knitting jumpers, pressing flowers and embroidering napkins with my two grannies..." was taught by her mother how to use a sewing machine and has been making clothes since the age of 12. Born in Ireland, raised and educated in South Africa Catherine now works from just outside Hong Kong. This nomadic heritage has clearly provided a cross section of influences.

Available at My-Wardrobe.com and at Harvey Nichols It's also worth noting that the sale of every dress equals a donation of educational toys to children in need in South Africa.

www.catherinedeane.com

Design Museum Collection: Extraordinary Stories About Ordinary Things

30th January 2013

The Design Museum has opened a permanent collection devoted exclusively to contemporary design and architecture from the twentieth-century. Exploring exceptional everyday items and graphics or objects inherent to communicating a national identity, the exhibition includes a study of the Anglepoise lamp (the single most copied, parodied and collected in the history of design) and profiles the Olympic 2012 logo, now a globally recognised icon.

The exhibition presents six key stories through hundreds of items, offering a diverse investigation into the impact of design on every aspect of our lives. Speaking of the exhibition Deyan Sudjic, Director of the Design Museum explains "Design matters at every level. It is what makes daily life a little better; it is about the big economic changes that the world is going through. It is about the designers and the manufacturers, but it is also about the users. It is a unique way of making sense of the world around us."

From the banks of the River Thames to the leafy borough of Kensington, the opening of this permanent collection marks a milestone in the journey towards the future of the Design Museum at its new home.

www.designmuseum.org

Tory Burch.co.uk

Elegant and waspish with a dash of the all American and a lot of uptown New York polish; that's Tory Burch, the US label currently making waves on my side of the Atlantic.

Having arrived in the UK a couple of years ago, the Tory Burch Bond Street location is now complimented by a stunning transactional website. Like the store before it www.toryburch.co.uk is an all encompassing representation of the Manhattan brand - shop a selection of the iconic Reva ballet shoes, prim cashmere knits, demure cocktail dresses and branded leather goods, alongside quotes from Tory Burch, the Tory Blog and beautiful look book imagery.

www.toryburch.co.uk

Chilli Night at Outsider Tart

Every thursday evening, David and David, the duo behind the American bakeshop in Chiswick, clear the counters of sweet US treats and present giant pots of steaming chilli.

With 12 place settings, 12 bowls and 12 chairs, the evening is guaranteed to be cosy, friendly and familiar as guests feast family style around their communal table.

On the evening I visited I sat with a couple of the local regulars, a few other journalists and bloggers, a couple of PR's and the Davids themselves - sweet bread was broken, beer flowed freely, the chilli gradually diminished and both souls and stomachs were fed on this all American comfort food as new friends were made.

A tip to anyone going along... don't forget to leave room for pudding! David and David are the most gracious and welcoming hosts, their table quickly feels like home as they actively encourage guests to relax, enjoy and help themselves to seconds, thirds and even fourths. After so much chilli there was little room for even the smallest slice of a delicious red velvet cheesecake so I took a giant wedge home, along with a huge jar of Reece's peanut butter that had been winking at me all evening.

David and David's authentic American soul food can now be sampled more regularly, as their restaurant, Blue Plate, has just opened.

To celebrate Thanks Giving, the American Davids are also hosting two traditional American Thanks Giving dinners, visit the website for more information

www.outsidertart.com

The Grey Area at Browns Menswear

Browns is something of a dynasty and Mrs B, Joan Burstein, something of a legend as she and the store have discovered and nurtured designers such as Alexander McQueen, Hussein Chalayan and John Galliano. Now, the dynamic London store has evolved into an art gallery, collaborating with Maison Twenty to house the work of 20 emerging artists.

If Mrs B's keen eye and taste in fashion designers is anything to go by, this collaboration will no doubt feature the stars of the future.

'The Grey Area' will be in the Browns menswear store until Christmas, where these one of a kind pieces will be available to buy.

www.brownsfashion.com

Big Kids Guest Edit

With the spirit of Camden and the intelligence of Oxford, new band Big Kids, fronted by Mr Hudson and Rosie Oddie, delivers dance floor filling drum beats and playful pop melodies.

Big Kids have created a playlist for Milk, featuring a selection of the tracks that have influenced their eclectic but signature sound. Click PLAY to listen.

1. I'd Rather Go Blind - Etta James
2. Walk This Way - Aerosmith
3. Starman - David Bowie
4. Livin On A Prayer - Bon Jovi
5. Waterloo Sunset - The Kinks
6. In My Life - The Beatles
7. A Message To You Rudy - The Specials
8. Suspicious Minds - Elvis Presley

Tonight Big Kids perform at the W Hotel, the first of a unique and interactive musical experience, The Human Juke Box. Call room service or tweet using #WHumanJukeBox to request a song and preferred location within the hotel and wait for them to rock up and play.

For more information click here

Guest Edit: Chinti and Parker founder, Rachael Wood

It seems I can never have too much cashmere in my wardrobe, or too many stripes - The mix stripe sweater from the our AW12 collection in navy cream and fox is an absolute favourite.
Chinti and Parker - available from Net A Porter - www.net-a-porter.com

Spots are another pattern I'm always drawn to, I love the oversized polka dot shirt in classic navy and cream we've done for this season. A statement shirt can instantly transform an outfit and this one ticks all the boxes; boyish, geeky and playful.
Chinti and Parker - available from Net A Porter - www.net-a-porter.com

I’d struggle without the conditioning treatment Moroccon Oil gives my hair. I hate to admit this but my mum introduced me to this product. I put just a tiny bit of the oil on the ends of my hair after washing and it keeps my hair super conditioned and smelling lovely.
Moroccan Oil - www.moroccanoil.co.uk

I’m fairly petite so I find the fit of Princesse Tam Tam underwear perfect, they do beautiful pieces without a crazy price tag and get the balance right between feminine but not fussy - or worse, frilly.
Princess Tam Tam - available from Harrods - www.harrods.com

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Rachael Wood and her cousin Anna Singh co founded ethical label, Chinti and Parker, in 2009. Continually adhering to their tag line 'Conscious Cloth' they endeavour to create beautiful clothing that values style on par with substance. Flattering cuts in fashion conscious colours are created using high quality natural materials chosen for both their inherent beauty and ethical consideration.

www.chintiandparker.com

BV 'Live' by Beach Tomato

8th October 2012

As the non existent summer subtly morphs into a dreary wet winter (sorry to sound so negative), thoughts of far flung destinations and white sandy beaches are creeping to the forefront my mind.

While not quite the same as a two week trip to the Caribbean, online beach magazine, Beach Tomato, have collaborated with the British Virgin Islands to bring scenes of their picture post card beaches to cheer up urban areas of London.

BV 'Live' is a gorilla exhibition of six traffic stopping visuals by up and coming French artist, Victoria Lacroix, placed around the streets of Soho and Shoreditch. Find any 3 of the hidden artworks and enter to win 11 days on the BVI's most idyllic beaches, a little cluster of heaven.

This glimmer of hope is a much needed ray of sunshine.

For full instructions on how to enter visit the Beach Tomato website
www.beachtomato.com

Spa and Massage

With the belief that massage "is as important to an individuals health regime as diet and exercise" Spa & Massage's unique approach to massage, so typically reserved as an extravagance, makes a refreshing change.

Conveniently dotted all over London, Spa & Massage centres are accessible and affordable with a focus on health and the necessary maintenance to keep your body healthy, fit and vibrant.

While this all sounds very clinical, lest us not forget, these treatments are also incredibly relaxing and luxurious, this ethos acts as the perfect guise to justify an indulgence. Spa & Massage work with expert therapists and use specially blended oils with a range of techniques from swiss, deep tissue and thai that can be combined and tailored to suit the individual.

I woke the other day with a bad back having sat for 8 hours the previous day at a desk on what was little more than a couple of plastic slats, after a 30 minute deep tissue, thai combo massage, I returned to my working day with better posture and more poise; a straighter, brighter eyed version of myself than just half an hour before.

www.spaandmassage.co.uk

Bora Aksu for Bracher Emden Bags

How thrilling to learn that one of my favourite London designers, Bora Aksu has collaborated with luxury handbag designer Bracher Emden.

It's a collaborative match made in heaven as Bora Aksu's self described ‘romantic with a darker twist’ aesthetic marries perfectly with creative director of Bracher Emden, Richard Emden's futuristic and feminine creations.

The result, a capsule collection of tote and clutch bags showcasing Bora’s distinct style and Richard’s structural intendment and craftsmanship using buttery soft leathers and brilliant bold colour

The Bora Aksu for Bracher Emden bags are available from Harrods in the new Designers Accessory space on the lower ground floor as well as online.

www.harrods.com

Andy Williams

One of the last great American crooners, Andy Williams sadly died recently leaving a legacy of songs with timeless appeal.

Rest in peace Andy Williams, I've no doubt many will continue to enjoy his songs for many decades more. Click PLAY to some crooner classics.

The Modern Pantry

Afternoon tea is one of my favourite past times. Not only is it the perfectly presented combination of sweet and savory treats layered on a cake stand, it’s the ritual it represents. Taking Afternoon Tea is indicative that one has plenty of time; time to sit and wait for the tea leaves to brew, time to indulge in crustless sandwiches and bite sized cakes and time to appreciate a little luxury in the middle of the day.

I recently gave myself the luxury of time for tea and went to The Modern Pantry in Clerkenwell. With sandwiches filled with tea smoked salmon, avocado and yuzu mayonnaise, or marinated feta and green pepper relish, The Modern Pantry is a far cry from the conventional cucumber sandwiches of The Ritz, but a dynamic taste sensation. Scones vary from savory parmesan, tarragon and spring onion to sweet green tea served with gooseberry compote and clotted cream, while chocolate brownies are blended with rosewater and sour cherry and cakes made with polenta. These unusual flavours and twists on tradition are the signature of owner Anna Hansen, whose cooking combines her Danish ancestry with a childhood in New Zealand and a culinary journey to the UK.

Her philosophy is driven by the desire to please and excite the palate - using bold falvours and colourful ingredients sourced from around the world Anna manages to renew everyday cooking with her unique blend of global inspirations, nowhere is this more evident than with her Afternoon Tea.

Open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner The Modern Pantry is a rare combination of effortless dinning and exciting cuisine; Anna has magically created a place that is both a haven and a hot spot, if I had the time I’d spend a day there sampling every possible course.

www.themodernpantry.co.uk

Guest Edit: Lucy Wood from Look

Here are 3 trends I noted at London Fashion Week this season that I'm excepting to see on the high street come spring/summer.

Opulent Brocade
Having already made an impact on the high street this autumn, brocade is set to stick right through to summer. Alice Temperley, Henry Holland and Emma Hill at Mulberry all used this substantial fabric to whip up sweet sun dresses and practical boxy jackets - not a textile technique traditionally associated with summer, but this is Great Britain and our weather entirely unpredictable!

At Temperley, the look was cute and feminine; matching jackets and dresses, with flora and fauna wallpaper shapes woven through, adding edge to the ‘mother of the bride’ metallic blue finish. Mulberry kept it cool with seventies undertones – lots of bronze and chunky biker zips, styled with lashings of leather. House of Holland had the usual hipster twist - grungy 90’s cami strap asymmetric necklaces and matching brocade beanie hats.

Above from left to right: Temperley London, Mulberry, House of Holland

Honeycomb Lattice
First spotted at Fyodor Golan, then at Temperley London, before finishing up with David Koma making honeycomb-style latticing a starring role in a staggering 13 of his 18 spring/summer 2013 looks.

Fyodor Golan created an almost basket weave skirt, Alice Temperley reworked eveningwear with mesh overlays and David Koma plastered it on his trademark fierce, graphic mini dresses. This lattice, garden trellis effect is going to be mega on the high street, expect it on dresses, printed on t-shirts and woven into everything from pencil skirts to clutch bags. Intertwined honeycomb networks are the new graphic finish, replacing the dogtooth, plaids and checks of autumn 12. As if to reaffirm this trend, Gucci just featured it in Milan, stitching a honeycomb mesh into the top half of polo necks. Next stop, Paris!

From left to right: Fyodor Golan, Temperley London, David Koma

Unexpected Prints
Flowers, birds, foxes and owls, a novelty print in nothing new on the catwalk and high street. At the fashion shows it’s always a competition to see who can come up with the freshest, kookiest, never-been-done-before design that will win over the hearts of fashion editor’s world wide, then consequentially storm every high street shop and wardrobe.

The top three for spring/summer 2013? Maps, stamps and geckos.
Kinder Aggugini championed cartoon maps – the kind you see on souvenir tea towels, or in childhood books. With kitsch seaside charm, it won’t be long before everyone from Topshop to Asos offer up their own versions. Next, Mary Katrantzou and her stamps. Imagine exotic stamps from faraway shores blown up and printed onto striking dresses. And to heritage brand Mulberry, who’ve made the humble gecko their mascot for SS13. Adorning frocks, tops, jumpsuits and those forever covetable Mulberry handbags, the Del Rey and the Alexa, it won’t be long before these lizard littleuns crop up in your favourite high street hot spots. The more camouflaged, the better!

From left to right: Kinder Aggugini, Mary Katrantzou, Mulberry

Lucy Wood is the Fashion News Editor at high street shopping and fashion bible Look magazine and can also be found blogging as Fashion Editor

London Fashion Week

No one uses colour so boldly and bravely then Roksanda Ilinicic, this season it was tangerine, tomato red, egg yolk yellow and royal blue anchored with black and ivory on the final day of London Fashion Week, day 5. The Roksanda staple, elegant shift dresses were constructed in colourful geometric panels softened with curves to look a little more fluid for spring summer. Trousers were high waisted and kicked out from the knee, sleeves were full and floating trimmed with contrasting cuffs and necklines were rounded, slashed or with a pointy collar. The influence was a little 70’s boho, the result was entirely resplendent and utterly modern. It was the over sized clutches that really took my fancy, padded and pillowy, perfect on which to rest our weary heads as London Fashion Week drew to a close.

www.roksandailincic.com

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Day four and fine knits took on a silk like fluid quality at Craig Lawrence as they draped and sheathed the body. Inspired by phosphorescent plankton that glows in the ocean under a full moon colour was silver, shimmering grey and ivory laced with metallic.

One of my favourite collections of the season and I hope for practical reasons the cute little Perspex bags that wrapped around the waist and arm will be a spring summer winner!

When it comes to Louise Gray the question isn’t “why?” but “why not?” Why not combine clashing prints in a collision of panels, layers and seperates? Why not mix colour, texture and shape? Why not throw everything, including the kitchen sink, into the mix? Her collection, as always, was a breath of heavily spiked fresh air, it's a fun, don’t take yourself to seriously collection that can be worn head to toe for the full Gray effect or mixed and matched for just a little of her attitude.

www.craiglawrence.co.uk
www.louisegray.com

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On day three Marios Schwab sent a tribe of models down the catwalk wearing leather harnesses and fringing over soft chiffons and tulles. The inspiration was obvious but the clothes wearable, intricate and perfectly executed. Top of my wish list for the season is the pink pleated paneled leather dress revealing a neutral lining.

www.mariosschwab.com

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To the sounds of jungle drums and croaking insects was how Todd Lynn's first safari inspired look arrived on day two. A discreet linear pattern like the marks and knots of tree bark flowed through the collection in red, yellows and dark greens before the black again began to dominate. Flared trousers, pencil skirts, slashed shoulders and corseted waists, this was a collection to slim elongate and flatter while being discreetly directional. It was so nice to see a lighter colour palette from him so the detail of his skilful construction and pattern cutting was more easily visible.

Had it not been a vastly, toweringly tall warehouse the Moschino Cheap & Chic show would have been packed to the rafters. One of the amazing things about London fashion week is the opportunity to go inside buildings not usually accessible. Fortunately the Industrial building in Clerkenwell was enough to keep me visually occupied as I could barely see the collection given how full the venue but what I did see, I liked – 60’s colours and shapes; patterned flares, starched A line skirts, buttoned up jackets with crystal embellishment and pineapple motifs.

Next was another stunning venue for a little post show party. On to a residential penthouse in Southwark to celebrate the newly redesigned Shopbop site. The views from this Manhattan Style Loft party were phenomenal and the space itself the interior of dreams, dressed in a selection of pieces from Shopbop by bloggers Style Bubble, Liberty London Girl, Disneyrollergirl and Sara Brajovic.

www.toddlynn.com
www.shopbop.com
www.moschinoboutique.com

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Day one of London Fashion Week began with the sun shinning and so I spent a little too long people watching on the terrace at Somerset House. I did catch a few shows and stand out favourites emerged as Zoe Jordan and Bora Aksu.

The Bora Aksu collection moved seamlessly through all the primary colours, featuring flowing silk shapes with art deco-esque devore pattern. Models wore water marked tights in the same organic patterns and crochet headresses held in place by some seriously back combed hair.

Zoe Jordan's use of leather this season was, for me, most eye catching; metallics in candy coloured hues of mint and pink were anchored with the wearable and printed separates while deep red suede made some serious statements. Cut away shoulders, loose trousers, varsity jackets and baseball caps saw sports luxe perfectly executed.

www.boraaksu.com
www.zoe-jordan.com

Follow me around the shows as I tweet and instagram

Street Beatnik

Incy Wincy Spider

Arachnophobes, look away, in fact, flee the country...spider season is upon us! These creepy insects are crawling out of every crevice, forming an army in our gardens and marching uninvited into our homes!

No one is suffering a battle with the 8 legged freaks more than Katie Hillier, only hers come embodied in gold and studded with a sparkling diamond belly! Dangling off dainty chains, wrapped around rings and crawling over ears, the Hillier Incy Collection is certainly my preffered way of encountering spiders!

A visit to her studio confirmed the inspiration, evidence of spiders were abundant!

Though Katie's favoured creature, the woodland bunny is still very much present, spotted on her desk and hiding amongst wildlife books on a shelf, rabbits features highly and the iconic paper clip, with a twinkling eye, continues to be reinvented in each collection.

Visit my Facebook page to watch the accompanying animation by Sadie and Joe Williams, so cute!

www.hillierlondon.com

Heels on Wheels by Katie Dailey

I still have the scars - under my chin and on my knee - from falling off my very first bike as a small child. Until a couple of years ago I'm not sure I'd been on a bike very much since that fateful tumble!

It was while I had someones armpit in my face on the tube that I thought perhaps cycling to get around London might be a preferred option and so began to do a little research. Unfortunately this bible of a book, Heels on Wheels, by fashion editor, Katie Dailey, hadn't yet been printed so I've made some knicker flashing and near miss mistakes, learning how to navigate the busy roads the hard way.

Sharing her own traumas, but mostly pleasures, insights and advise, Katie's book is the ideal introduction, or reintroduction to cycling - saving anyone keen to get back in the saddle from embarrassing and dangerous mistakes.

Written in simple prose Heels on Wheels isn't patronising but informative and humorous; covering everything from choosing your bike, preventing thieves, safety and basic bicycle maintenance to avoiding hat hair, arriving polished and sensible but stylish sartorial choices.

Her snippets of wisdom, savvy advise and stylish insight is accompanied by beautiful illustrations by Clare Owen and the ideal read for anyone keen to be released from the shackles of public transport while maintaining a blow dry!

Heels on Wheels by Katie Dailey is published by Hardie Grant Books and available to buy on Amazon

Guest Edit: Kristin Taylor, Intuitive Healer

Within the madness of everyday life it's important to take moments to yourself. Here are three methods that can be used to focus, energise and keep calm.

Make sure your energy is "grounded". This means that you have a strong connection to the earth, and this makes you feel calm and supported. Time in nature is key, but you can also do this energetically. Close your eyes and imagine that you have tree roots coming from the bottom of your feet deep into the core of the earth. You can do this anywhere and anytime.

Pay attention to your feelings. In the modern world, many of us become numb to how we are actually feeling about things. One way to do this is to sit quietly, place your hand on your heart and become aware of how your heart is feeling. Allow the feelings to come up without judgment. This is great for reconnecting to yourself and re-establishing feelings of love, joy and happiness. With time, it can enhance your intuition and assist with making decisions.

Keep perspective. Often we get sucked into the dramas of our lives, and we can develop inaccurate perceptions. A great way to gain perspective is through energy expansion. Sit quietly with your eyes closed and imagine that your energy is white light and that it is expanding from your body out in all directions, to the whole of the universe. From this space, consider the issue at hand. You will likely see it from a new, wider perspective. When you have finished this contemplation, imagine bringing your energy back into your body and "ground" as explained in point number one above. You may wish to have a notebook and pen nearby as you may gain new insights with this exercise!

Kristin Taylor is an intuitive healer who helps her clients realise healthier and happier lives. Previously a corporate lawyer in London, she uses the skills learnt from the legal industry combined with her natural and inherited gift to facilitate healing for her clients.

Kristin holds sessions from the Beyond Medispa at Harvey Nichols, London.

www.kristintaylorintuitive.com
www.harveynichols.com

Bowiefest

The ICA are hosting a 3 day film festival dedicated to the work of legendary rock star David Bowie, who has been involved in film as long as he's been making music.

Beginning on Friday 31st August Bowiefest is to be 3 days of screenings, talks and Q&A's beginning with a rare screening of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars on opening night.

I'm having my own celebration of David Bowie, revisiting his most iconic tracks, click PLAY to listen to my 'best of Bowie'.

1. Let's Dance
2. Ashes To Ashes
3. Rebel Rebel
4. Ziggy Stardust
5. Heroes

www.ica.org.uk

Guest Edit: Garance Doré

French blogger and illustrator Garance Doré picks the favourite pieces from her collection for New York label, Kate Spade and shares the essential thing she can't work without...

Above she's pictured at the UK launch in the Covent Garden Kate Spade store with a young fan who asked her to sign his sketch.

From left to right

AUTHOR Garance Doré

Studio Pullover - Joie de Vive, means the joy of life and happiness, this mantra is really Kate Spade and really me. On a classic grey pullover this is simple, sexy and cool.

Jessie Top - My staple, I wear blouses all the time, I don't have to explain their versatility, they're just so easy. I'm so proud of this print, it is not too hot or cold but perfectly bridges the Kate Spade style with my own.

Pardon My French Tee - The name first came up when I was working on my web series but I was a little worried about it and the connotations behind the phrase. Then, when I was working on this collection 6 months ago it immediately just seemed right.

Dylan Skirt - The print and shape of this skirt is strong but you can wear it with anything at any hour of the day, a jean shirt and flats or heels for the evening. Whatever the time and styling it is always joyful!

Lipton Earl Grey Tea - If I want to sit down and illustrate, to get inside myself, focused and inspired, I play some music and sit with a cup of earl grey tea, my favourite is by Liptons, I have tried many but that is without doubt the best.

www.katespade.com
www.garancedore.fr/en/

Instagram

I'm now on Instagram. Check out my life through a lens, as I document the interesting things I see in pictures, with some additional hipster filters!

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Paul A Young

‘You don’t like dark chocolate?’ He asked while franticly putting on his crisp, cotton glove, virgin white except for the traces of cocoa powder on the finger tips. ‘No…,’ I stammered, not realising the effect this statement would have on the pitch of Paul A Young’s voice.

‘Try this!’ He plucked a single ganache from a neat line in a colour that always makes my heart sink when I open a box to find all chocolates this colour. Placing it proudly in my hand, he raised his eyebrows expectantly. I was preparing to lie, ready to contort my face into a fake expression of glee but within seconds I was eating my words and they tasted unbelievably good - rich, velevety and sumptuous.

Despite doubling the size of his business in the last year, Paul A Young's recipes, methods and manufacturing processes remain unchanged. There are no additives and unnatural ingredients in his chocolates, nothing is flavoured with anything other than the fresh ingredient or essential oils and everything is seasonal - the current summer bite being pea and mint - an oddly delicious combination, trust me, try it! A year long favourite is marmite, surprisingly subtle flavour and silky in texture and my absolute leading choice, his award winning sea salt caramel!

The three large slabs of marble in his Soho kitchen and his 25 strong team are the secret to Paul A Young's success, everything from tempering the chocolate, to filling, molding, coating, decorating, wrapping and packing is done meticulously by hand. “Machines break down and get old, people improve, if you look after them and invest time in them they’ll just get better and better over the years” and so in Paul A Young’s kitchen you’ll see that each treasured truffle is assembled with care and every individual bar wrapped with love and patience.

Paul A Young wants not only to educate us mere Cadbury munching mortals and spoil us with his fine chocolate and delicious treats but to establish a synonymous link between British Chocolatiers and excellence.

Visit Paul A Young at one of his three London stores in Soho, Islington and the City.

www.paulayoung.co.uk

Designed to Win

26th July - 18th November 2012, Design Museum

While the London 2012 Olympic Games continue into the second week, a well timed exhibition at the Design Museum elaborates on the ways in which design and sport are combined.

It's not unfair to say that the competing athlete's uniforms have come under as much scrutiny as their performance and prowess at the Olympics. This exhibition explores not only the clothing that allows sportsmen and women to compete at optimum level and enhance their natural abilities but also celebrates the designs of the neccessary sporting equipment. From the intricacies of F1 cars to a carefully constructed pair of running shoes, a carbon fibre javelin or an aerodynamic racing bike, Designed to Win explores how revolutionary materials, technologies and techniques push the limits of human endeavour and enhance their skills to achieve ultimate victories and break world records.

As we anticipate the end of the Olympics and the beginning of the Paralympics, Designed to Win also explores how design has revolutionised sports opportunities for people with physical impairments.

www.designmuseum.org

Vintage Summer Road Trip

This is the spirit and sound of freedom: long open roads, a convertible red Cadillac, hazy heat and cool breezes.

Click PLAY to hear the sound track of my imagined vintage summer road trip.

1. If I Ever Feel Better - Phoenix
2. Love Sick - Friendly Fires
3. Runaway - Nuyorican Soul
4. You Make My Dreams - Hall and Oates
5. Why Do You Let Me Stay Here? - She & Him
6. Lovers' Carvings - Bibio
7. Sweet Disposition - The Temper Trap
8. Gimme Shelter - The Rolling Stones
9. Dance - ESG
10. Breakin' Up - Rilo Kiley
11. Rescue Song - Mr Little Jeans
12. Drive - Incubus
13. End Credits - Chase & Status and Plan B
14. When I'm Alone - Lissie
15. On'n'On (Ruined by Rick Rubin - Justice

Creme De La Mer

Amongst the usual dressing table clutter are two things poignantly placed next to my daily lotions and potions; a silver clock and a picture of my 6 year old self.

My mother always said “you wear your skin everyday, it’s worth investing in” and as I glance at the clock forever ticking and my smooth childish complexion in the photograph, it may be time to listen to her advice.

Crème de la Mer is certainly an investment - it's notoriously expensive, but with good reason. The original Miracle Broth was developed over 50 years ago by aerospace physicist Dr. Max Huber and combines clever science with the restorative powers of the sea. After a laboratory accident resulting in horrific burns, Huber began a personal quest to transform the look of his scarred skin, developing a unique bio-fermentation process to combine the simplest and purest ingredients with light and sound energy, he developed a seriously soothing and nourishing cream - now marketed as the Miracle Broth.

Forever evolving Crème de la Mer have now developed a whole host of skin care products for different skin types and needs, including eye creams, hand creams, lip balms, makeup and most recently The Reparative Body Lotion.

With products so powerful and expensive application is important. For the best results and to avoid uneccessary wastage Sarantis Tsimilimis, Education Manager & Skincare Ambassador of Creme de la Mer UK & Ireland advises on the ritual of how the most popular products should be applied.

“The eye products come with a silver-tipped applicator, which both cools and stimulates micro-circulation. A pearl sized amount of the original Moisturizing Cream should be warmed between the finger tips to release the key ingredients, then gently patted onto the skin to soothe, also helping to further stimulate circulation.”

Crème de la Mer take pride in their customer service and are keen to educate anyone interested about their product. Stop by one of their counters, found primarily in high end department stores, to experience and learn about Creme De La Mer, with no obligation to buy.

www.cremedelamer.co.uk

Gigi's in the Algarve, Portugal

At the foot of a long wooden bridge that wiggles over the lagoons and dunes towards the beach of Quinta do Lago, there is nothing to indicate that a culinary charm is sitting on the horizon except a cluster of yellow parasols.

On the edge of the beach is Gigi's, little more than a wooden decked shack with canary coloured parasols to shield the simple wooden picnic benches from the blistering Portugese sun. This is a restaurant without pretension or fanfare, the tables are laid with plastic matts alongside cutlery wrapped in paper napkins, a no frills, rustic approach to, what is without doubt, the finest seafood I've ever tasted. Freshly caught, jumping from the sea into the hands of Gigi's chefs before being seasoned minimally, cooked quickly and served with rice, salad and baked potatoes. It's the taste of the Algarve, an indulgent holiday lunch that washes down perfectly with a lightly blushed rose!

Follow the delicious smells of garlic and butter into the very minimalist kitchen - a few stainless steal surfaces, sizzling hot open grills and basic utensils.

On the way you may well meet Bernardo Reino (known more commonly as Gigi) as he pops out from behind the counter, all embraces and Portugese affections to make a fuss of his regulars who religiously return year after year. He wanders from table to table with arms open wide, hosting his restaurant with infectious happiness and overwhelming charisma.

Gigi has been serving the most exquisite seafood for more than 20 years at his low key but highly desirable (it's near impossible to get a table in peak season) beach side restaurant. He sources the finest fish every day at early morning markets, working with the best fisherman and picking only their most brilliant catch.

Gigi's, Quinta do Lago, Algarve, Portugal
To book telephone: + 351 964 045178

The Smouldering Spent Match Necklace by Claire English

Matches are endlessly fascinating to me; the way a small obtuse looking object can create such a powerful element, a burst of fire that fizzes into nothing but a fragile charred stick

Jeweller, Claire English is equally as captivated, describing one of her simple pleasures to be “striking a match and watching as it curls and burns down to your fingertips". On walking into Kabiri on Marylebone High Street it was Claire’s designs I immediately fell in love with, particularly The Smouldering Spent Match Necklace set in rose gold and studded with rubies.

A contemporary jewellery designer working from London, Claire combines her interest in curios, collage and fine craftsmanship with witty, irreverent and playful designs. Speaking of her collections Claire explains…“All of my Special Jewellery is a celebration of the trait of 'Making Special'…we all have or have had objects whose value is discernable only to us because of its connections with points in time, people, places or stories. I take insignificant, overlooked and even ugly objects and through the alchemy of jewellery making processes turn them into something sublime to be treasured.”

Game, set and match to Claire English, her pieces are extraordinary, beautiful and have the ability to be pretty and fragile as well as interesting statements.

Claire’s pieces are one of the many designers stocked at Kabiri who curate fresh, new and exciting jewellery designers and collections sourced globally.

www.kabiri.co.uk
www.claireenglish.com

The T Shirt

Represent at the 100 Club with Converse

30th July - 10th August 2012 - 100 Club, London

When the longest running popular music venue in the world, the 100 Club, came under threat last year there was outrage from fans and outcry from the stars who had performed there - from the Sex Pistols to Paul McCartney. In the end the 100 Club was saved by corporate trainer giant, Converse, who stepped up and sponsored the club allowing it to remain independent.

To celebrate the one year anniversary of this hugely successful and mutually beneficial collaboration, Converse have announced the launch of Represent, a free summer music series.

Since its inception in 1942, the 100 Club has been famed for its democratic celebration of music from all genres, Represent follows this spirit, curating a diverse roster of artists to play in this unique and intimate setting. Headline acts include Plan B, Nas, Paul Weller and Santigold as well as other special guests totalling 45 notable artists, all of whom have helped to shape the global music landscape.

For more information, free tickets and live streaming visit www.converse.co.uk/represent

www.converse.co.uk
www.the100club.co.uk

Hope and Greenwood

“Would you like to dance Mr Greenwood?” Miss Hope coquettishly extends a hand to her husband as a soulful 40’s voice chimes around the sweet shop from the old record player in the corner. She with her red lips, seamed stockings and mink shrug and he with his flat cap, trouser braces and twisted moustache cut quite a dash, setting the perfect scene as they embody entirely their brand.

It all began with another question as Miss Hope asked...“where have all the sweet shops gone?” and so Hope and Greenwood was developed. The concept has since become a business the speed and scale of which has taken them by surprise - 2 shops in London, a wholesale business and global retailers including 14 outlets in Japan.

They call themselves ‘purveyors of confectionary’ but what they also do is preserve childhood memories, delivering traditional products, exactly how you might remember them. “We don’t want to confuse or upset someone’s memory of the toffee bonbon their Granny gave them on a Saturday morning by serving up a cheap replica. We want for people to share their memories and create new ones, for a 45 year old father to come in with his 8 year old son and share his favourite sweets, and for them to taste just the way they used to.”

Working closely with their factories and producers they develop their products to be “just so”, using where possible the original ingredients, sourcing, producing and manufacturing in the UK.

There’s a tremendous feeling of nostalgia about Hope and Greenwood, like a twee Victorian sweet shop or a spirited moment of joviality in the 40’s, but there’s a bright colour palette, a big top stripe and a wicked sense of humour throughout. As Miss Hope puts it, “we’ve never simply pastiched things but had our feet in the past and our heads in the future, we take the essence of the old, maintain its authenticity, but anchor it for the modern customer.“

Amongst the shelves stocked with their own retro sweets; Flying Saucers, Sherbet Lemons, Edinburgh Rock and Clotted Cream Fudge are a few of the original icons; tins of Harrogate Toffee, Kendals Mint Cake and packs of Bazooka Bubble Gum.

Miss Hope’s favourite sweet treat is the Peanut Butter Fudge and Salt Caramels, she likes the sweet and the salty, while Mr Greenwood likes the Rhubarb and Custard boiled sweets, Ginger sweets and Chilli chocolate, he sucks his while Miss Hope considers herself a cruncher…“I like the instant gratification!”

With a ‘carry on’ wit, a passion for confectionary and a creative design aesthetic, Hope and Greenwood is a true treat to behold. I asked them what they've always had in the back of their mind throughout every stage of Hope and Greenwood...“If it wouldn’t have been in or looked right in Aunt Mary’s pantry, it doesn’t reach our shelves.”

www.hopeandgreenwood.co.uk

London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Prints at Louis Vuitton

9th July until 11th September 2012 - Louis Vuitton, Bond Street

I'm being definitively scrooge like about the Olympics. While I am looking forward to the atmosphere The Games will no doubt bring, I'm annoyed I haven't got a single ticket (not even beach volleyball) and I'm dreading the public transport nightmare that will surely unfold.

However there is one event where attendance is not dependent on a strange ballot system and that begins today, before the world and his wife depends on our already crowded city - told you, scrooge!

In their delightful Bond Street Maision, Louis Vuitton are exhibiting a series of 12 limited edition prints by some of the most distinguished artists of our day. Selected by a commissioning panel that includes Tate Director, Sir Nicholas Serota, the artists were asked to respond to a brief that used the city of London as inspiration while interpreting the key values of the Olympics and Paralympics – respect, excellence, friendship, courage, equality and determination.

Scroll above to see my favourites and visit my Facebook page to see the full selection of all prints on display.

www.louisvuitton.com

The Perfect Summer Shoes

Slinky sandals, rubber soled deck shoes and metallic leather espadrilles, these are the shoes of my summer!

Above are my custom designed Timberland deck shoes, made bespoke for me using their design your own custom boots or shoes service. Every detail can be considered, the colour of each panel, lace, hardware, tread and sole specifially chosen, and embroidered with initials! It's easy to get carried away and design a bit of a eye sore, as you'll see I played it pretty safe opting for white, neutral and gold embroidery.

Here are my very own pair of By Larin sandals, Recently written abouthere. The interchangeable straps give endless options, the perfect sandal to pack for holiday as the ankle strap can be changed to complement and match almost anything.

Penelope Chilvers espadrilles, made the traditional way by Catalan methods - using natural jute and hand-sewn construction - are a summer favourite. They look better with wear and after being bleached in the sun, are just so comfortable and last for years. I've long been a fan of Penelope Chilvers, first writing about her Impossible snow boots here, season after season I find new favourites in her collections.

Penelope Chilvers are currently running a competition to win £200 to spend online. Share your #espadrillemoments, be it pool side, walking the dog, weeding the garden or shopping in town, take a snap and share the life of your espadrille. Full details here.

Reveries of a Lost Life Mask

Theorising haphazard collages into skilled and intricate pencil drawings, Canadian artist, Aurel Schmidt creates quirky but beautiful artworks compiled of hyper real drawings of contrasting objects.

Using coloured pencils and graphite she draws items such as condoms, flies and cigarette packs intricately, curating them with more traditional and prettier art subjects like butterflies and flowers. Arranged to create an overall beautiful still life or a playful character her pieces appear to be a demonstration of the daily balance between nature and man, reminding us of our own vulnerability.

In a book limited to only 1000 copies, Reveries of a Lost Life Mask, Schmidt's drawings are accompanied by the powerful poetry or Franz Wright. Available at to buy at www.ln-cc.com

A selection of work by Aurel Schmidt can be seen at the Saatchi Gallery

www.ln-cc.com
www.saatchi-gallery.com

Guest Edit: Gaby Basora from Tucker

From left to right

I am a Jean Queen, I love what happened when women started wearing pants. I am celebrating my own jubilee on this side of the Atlantic with J Brand soft lilac jeans.
Mid rise skinny jeans - J Brand at Matches, (SALE) £133 - wwww.matchesfashion.com

Ancient Greek Sandals and summer dresses. Sophia Loren in Houseboat with Cary Grant! Prego, prego anywhere you may go!
Metallic leather wing sandals - Ancient Greek Sandals from Net A Porter,
£130 - www.net-a-porter.com

I am a print-mixing aficionado but have lately been loving a head to toe look in one print. I adore the ‘chevron cart wheel print’ short sleeve blouse and drawstring pants in the same print. Together they mimic one fierce louche jumpsuit, channeling Loulou de la Falaise. I love a gal in a uniform - it is my summer look.

Shirt and trousers - Tucker at Selfridges - www.selfridges.co.uk

Clarins beauty flash balm. Upon a recent visit to London, my pal Sophia exclaimed, "My goodness have you had work done on your face, Gab you look so "good!" Enough said!
Beauty Flash Balm - Clarins at Boots, £28 - www.boots.com

Summer breezy and eternal effervescence with the softest cotton voiles over beautiful lingerie from Mimi Holiday by Damaris. Twirls and swirls with a glass of rose or a mojito mean bright mornings and bright nights.
Selection available from www.damaris.co.uk

Gaby Basora is the founder and creative director of cult NYC label Tucker.

Originally beginning with a perfectly fitted printed silk blouse in 2005, her label has evolved into seasonal collections of beautifully cut separates, dresses and jumpsuits featuring strong signature prints.

Tucker continues to be characterised by an exciting array of contradictions, a look that's never contrived but carefully considered, is agile yet bold and made from silks that are luxurious but not precious.

Visit my Facebook page to watch a stunning video by Kinga Burza, created to showcase the summer range.

Tucker is now sold in store and online at Selfridges.

www.selfridges.co.uk
www.tuckerbygabybasora.com

Tunes of June

Click PLAY to hear my 'Tunes of June'

1. Hands are Clever - Alex Clare
2. Stay Away - Charli XCX
3. Lights Out - Santigold
4. Reunion - M83
5. Fool Boy - Liam Bailey
6. Stop Dancing - Esser
7. Wild Cat - Ratatat
8. Tighten Up - The Black Keys
9. Man I Used to Be - K-OS
10. The Wave - Miike Snow

Merci Store in Paris

In another life I'd have a small yet perfectly formed apartment overlooking the Seine in Paris and both my person and my home would be decked out entirely with pieces from Merci.

In reality, I'm a tourist in the city of light, with nothing but admiration for every inch of unique retail concept, Merci. It's an airy loft style space, formerly a wall paper factory, full to it's white washed rafters of impeccably curated furnishings, clothing, accessories, homewares, gadgets, gifts, flowers, haberdashery, stationary, books, a coffee shop, a restaurant and monthly interchangeable installations.

Dreamed up by Marie-France and Bernard Cohen, creators of Bonpoint, Merci donates all profits to operate a co-op for young women in Magagascar. Everything sold in Merci - from the bicycle bells and flower pots to fine jewellery and pastel coloured chino's - is tastefully displayed and tantalising tempting. Merci strikes a perfect balance between conscience free, ethical shopping and highly desirable lifestyle products the sale of which results in support to a hugely worthwhile cause.

As a tourist in Paris looking to go a little off the beaten track, the Marais area is certainly worth a visit, beyond the wide boulevard is a cobweb of streets lined with our favourite French fashion imports, Maje, Sandro, Isabel Marant, The Kooples Gerard Darel and Comptoir des Cotonniers, cute Parisian bistro's and late drinking wine bars.

www.merci-merci.com

French Fashion

I've always admired the understated and effortless style of the French; their discipline with tailoring, easy accessorising and often androgynous flair.

The traditional vision of a gamine Parisian woman chain smoking Gauloises and wearing cigarette pants with a flawless white shirt has undergone a renaissance. Over the last decade French fashion has been reincarnated with labels such as Maje, Sandro and Isabelle Marant adding edge to the strict slim lines and perfect proportions. Giving spirit and pizazz to the Parisian uniform these high end high street brands deliver pieces that nod at trends but focus on wearability and quality season after season.

Above is my pick of favourites, featuring Sandro, the slightly rockier sister of Maje, Isabelle Marant the punk to Vanessa Bruno's folk, Comptoir Des Cotonniers the school girl, Gerard Darel the secretary and The Kooples prim, yet sexy teenager.

Look out for other labels; Surface to Air, Zadig and Voltaire, Ba&sh, APC and my personal favourite Les Petites, most but not all are widely available in the UK.

-

From left to right
Top
Tie dye jacket - Isabelle Marant - www.isabelmarant.tm.fr
Silk dress - Comptoir Des Cotonniers - www.comptoirdescotonniers.com
Floral dress - Vanessa Bruno - www.vanessabruno.com
Pink slim jeans - The Kooples - www.thekooples.co.uk
Silk shirt - Sandro - www.sandro-paris.com

Bottom
Cotton embroidered shorts - Maje - www.maje.com
Suede bag - Gerard Darel - www.gerarddarel.com
Suede boots - Isabelle Marant - www.isabelmarant.tm.fr

Golden Union Fish and Chips

Nothing makes me feel nostalgic quite like Fish 'n' Chips - best served from the local chippy, heavily salted and with lashings of vinegar, eaten at dusk on the beach in Norfolk where I grew up.

While in London The Golden Union Fish Bar gives me my seaside fix in the heart of Soho. Opened by Billy Drew, he along with his family have created an authentic chip shop in the middle of the city. Traditional favourites - fish, chips, pies, fishcakes and sides - are cooked to order for eating in or wrapped and ready to take away.

It's the taste of home without the threat of tide or thieving seagulls.

www.goldenunion.co.uk

By Larin

I always think that if an idea makes you kick yourself for not having the foresight or inspiration to come up with it yourself it's an absolute winner. Case in point, By Larin.

With a patented 'click and twist' mechanism and a range of beautifully crafted footwear in timeless shapes - courts, sandals, platforms, heels and flats - By Larin delivers endless design possibilities with interchangeable accessories.

Keys in the bowl, these shoes are all about swapping partners. Mix and match decoration to adorn the classic shoe styles as each season more embellishments, colours and styles are introduced.

By Larin is like a revolving door of possibility, perfect for one who just can't make up her mind!

www.bylarin.com

Art Below

June 2012 - Throughout Central London Underground Stations

Take the northern line from Kentish Town, change at Euston on to the Victoria Line to Oxford Circus, pick up the Bakerloo line and go North to....
get off at Covent Garden

A journey of London is to be like a tour of an art gallery throughout June, as 60 artists from 12 countries display their art in 20 tube stations throughout Central London.

Image above, Alice Louisa Bulgin, South Kensington

Amy Hart, Pimlico

Ashley Percival, Liverpool Street

Gioia De Buijn, Old Street

Iain MacLeod Brudenell, Great Portland Street

Sam Jefferies, White City

Framed prints of this work will also be on display at the Hospital Club in Covent Garden from 19th to 30th June.

www.artbelow.com

Parisian Street Art

Art is everywhere, it's often not necessary to go to a gallery or exhibition, simply open your eyes wider and look beyond the familiar. Out of my habitual London surroundings, during a weekend in Paris, that's exactly what I did.

Be it political, decorative, traditional or comical, amongst the wide avenues and ornate buildings, Paris is full of street art.

Here are a selection I came across during my visit to the City of Light.

'At Home' Treatments from Lime Spa

Always have essential oils to hand, they have thousands of antiseptic and cosmetic uses. Lavender and Ylang Ylang to soothe, Tea Tree to refresh, Rosewood to comfort and Orange to uplift. Mix one of these with grape seed oil (easy to acquire, reasonably priced, light and very good for the skin with no smell) to make a superb massage or body oil with a very nice aroma

Home scrub for skin like velvet:

- Mix up some medium coarse salt or sugar (sugar is milder in texture a better for sensitive skins)
- Cover the salt or sugar in grape-seed oil and lavender essential oil, about 10 drops.
- After being in the warm to hot bath for five minutes, once skin has softened, use circular motions to scrub legs, arms and body to remove dead skin and the oils, nourish, soothe and heal.
- Use with a loofah or exfoliating gloves if you wish.
- For maximum effect shower with a warm water to remove excess oils and pat dry.

A very gentle and deep cleansing face peel:

- Wash face with a mild PH balanced cleanser.
- Mix fresh lemon juice with live natural unsweetened yoghurt, apply to face and leave on your for 15 minutes (avoid eye area)
- Gently wash with the mixture then use a gentle toner
- Apply moisturiser.
- Repeat 3 times a week for best results.

Foot bath to stimulate circulation, alleviate tired feet and prevent fungal infections:

- Soak feet in hot water, epsom salts, lemon juice and essential oil.
- Repeat but with cold water

Fragrance for your bedroom:

A few drops of your favorite essential oil dropped onto a bedside lamp with 40 watt light bulb will perfume the room in an instant.

Add Lavender or Rosewood to the final rinse in your wash cycle to delicately scent your sheets.

Jason Sloan is the Group Director of Spa for Per AQUUM Retreats, Resorts and Residences, a group that boasts a portfolio of the finest hotels, each hosting its own luxurious Lime spa. With a wealth of knowledge from the beauty industry, ranging from cutting edge technology to traditional techniques, Jason is perfectly positioned to share these easy, effective and beautifully indulgent home treatments. Enjoy!

www.peraquum.com

Damien Hirst - Two Weeks One Summer

23rd May - 8th July 2012, White Cube, Bermondsey

While the much hyped Damien Hirst retrospective at the Tate Modern continues until september, featuring his best known and most iconic pieces, another exhibition at White Cube, Bermondsey coincides.

I attend the preview of Two Weeks One Summer last night, to see the curation of paintings on which Hirst began work in the summer of 2010.

Photo: Damien Hirst, Two Parrots with Grotesque Baby 2010
Oil on canvas © Damien Hirst and Science Ltd. All rights reserved, DACS 2012.
Prudence Cuming Associates Ltd Courtesy White Cube

In conversation with Michael Craig Martin for the Tate catalogue earlier this year, Hirst said..."The void of painting is always a difficult thing. It's infinite really. There's no gravity in painting, so it's even more infinite than space." With sketchy perspective lines, Hirst has manage to add dimension and anchor the subjects included in his paintings, which could be seen as traditional still life - arranged objects on intimate size canvases.

Objects include mundane household items; a pair of scissors, a pepper grinder, jugs, arranged amongst articles that reference his infamous modern art. Shark jaws, body parts in bell jars or foetuses pickled in formaldehyde are soften by nature; butterflies, parrots, magpies and orchids. It seems Hirst has mixed the mundane with the poignant and then the beautiful in his series of paintings that at first glance appear traditional but closer inspection reveals the true Hirst sentiment and process.

www.whitecube.com
www.tate.org.uk

I attended the preview of Damien Hirst, Two Weeks One Summer, at White Cube, Bermondsey courtesy of Peroni in celebration of their first app Vivi in Stile. Download the app from iTunes, available now.

Pauric Sweeney Handbag

This bag isn't about timeless elegance, nor is about eternal style, though I do believe it possesses both. Primarily it's about playful extravagance and a little bit of bling. Utterly impractical with it's metallic python panels and dove grey body yet entirely utilitarian with it's saddle flap, multi wear straps and generous proportions.

This contrast of function and flair is a signature of Irish born, Florence based Pauric Sweeney. Arriving at handbag design via studies in Architecture in America and jewellery design in London, both these past times are clear influences in Sweeney's work - unique shapes that contrast structure and slouch, python textures, significant hard wear and metallic leathers.

Like a Magpie I first spotted this beloved bag here, obsessed about it for a month and then relinquished the power of its calling to my credit card.

Pictured with a few of my handbag essentials; Ray Ban sunnies, J Crew card holder, Creme De La Mer lip balm for moisture, Chanel Rouge Coco Shine for colour, house keys, spare pennies, a lottery ticket that reminds me to keep dreaming and a Smythson notebook to write down wit and wisdom.

Pauric Sweeney is currently sold on Avenue 32

www.avenue32.com
www.pauricsweeney.com

LUX/ICA Biennial of Moving Images 2012

24 – 27 May 2012

They say a picture speaks a thousand words. How many words then, does a moving picture say?

In celebration of moving images the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) has collaborated with LUX to host a four day display of moving image from a spectrum of contemporary artists'. Screenings, events and performance commissions will be played along side a series of talks and panel discussions.

The ICA is committed to promoting this burgeoning art form and this biennial offers diverse perspective on contemporary moving image practice, speaking not just words but whole novels.

www.ica.org.uk
www.lux.org.uk
www.biennialofmovingimages.org.uk

Good Works Leather Bracelets

Do good US company, Good Works, has just launched their ethos - to bring charity and good will to fashion - in the UK. Through the sale of their bracelets they assist various charities, selected for their ability inspire, empower and give hope to those they support.

What I love about these is that they're more dynamic than the usual rubber charity bracelet. The brightly coloured or metallic leather strands are embossed with virtuous messages and can be wrapped, stacked and wound up the arm, with 25% of the profits made from sales directly benefiting the chosen charities.

Good work!

www.goodworks.eu

Sony World Photography Award winner Mitch Dobrowner

1st - 22nd May 2012 - Somerset House

Selected from more than 112,000 entries from 171 countries, and a shortlist of more than 120 photographers, Mitch Dobrowner's dramatic thundery skies recently earnt him the top prize in the Fine Art/Landscape category at the prestigious Sony World Photography Awards.

Hailing from America, Dobrowner told me that he’s been fascinated by storms since childhood. “I have fond memories of being caught in thunderstorms and feeling the winds and rain in my face.” He began photographing storms primarily in the southwestern United States, seeking out the nastiest and most unstable weather possible. It wasn’t until the summer of 2009 that he shifted his focus from the southwest and began to research the most severe weather he could find. “This brought me to Tornado Alley and the Great Plains (USA). After experiencing a 60,000 foot mesocyclone in Valentine, Nebraska (July 13, 2009) on my second day of shooting, I decided that my experiment was a project. I had never seen anything like that in my life; the experience was like standing in front on a 60,000' high, electrified, vacuum cleaner. “

And the results are a true spectacle. A remarkable combination of drama and movement captured in a moment, that makes the intimidating storms look almost serene hanging over the endless and arid landscapes. This almost eerie sense of calm makes it easy to forget the high risk conditions Dobrowner has placed himself in to get these perfect shots. Despite the danger he doesn’t allow himself to be precious with his equipment… “To me, my camera is a tool... it’s not something to polish and shine and never use. It acts as my paintbrush. And though I need to understand it, as it needs to feel like an extension of my hand, it can’t be something that I’m intimidated by. I don’t want to be thinking about it when I’m standing in front of a 60,000-foot cyclone. I just want to be concentrating on composition and exposure, and just have the ability to focus on what is in front of me.”

He uses a Canon 5D Mark II with a 24-105mm or 70-200mm L series lens, which he says affords maximum creative flexibility, despite this Dobrowner sights his beanie has his most vital piece of equipment…”I wear it on my head to keep the hair out of his eyes.”

So, with this new accolade, which he says is “surreal, humbling, shocking” what is next? "I'm planning to begin researching volcanoes and/or volcanic lands over the next year. This includes a trip to Iceland, maybe Hawaii and up the coast of California. Eventually I would love to photograph the deserts and volcanoes in Chile. The castles and history of England is also of interest to me."

Mitch Dobrowner’s winning image is currently on display at Somerset House, along with other winners and entrants shortlisted for the Sony World Photography Awards.

For more information click here.

ww.mitchdobrowner.com
www.somersethouse.org
www.mitchdobrowner.com

Studio Nicholson

To call something basic may often be regarded an insult, but for Nick Wakeman, creative director of Studio Nicholson, there can be no higher accolade. After only a few seasons, Studio Nicholson, has already become a cult label for those wanting basic building blocks to a sophisticated, effortless and uncomplicated wardrobe.

I personally fell in love the finite collections of Studio Nicholson as soon as I saw them, a feeling further sealed on meeting Nick herself, who perfectly embodies her brand with her unfussy but elegant approach to dressing. As a former menswear designer, Nick finds much of her inspiration from mens tailoring and while people watching, particularly on travels to Italy, “I say people because I look at both women and men for inspiration. At the moment I'm using Gaia Repossi as a muse for SS'13.”

Perfectly balanced suiting, well cut shirts, oversized t shirts and luxurious knits make Studio Nicholson discreetly feminine. It feels to me like a label without obvious masculinity and completely void of androgyny - her clothes are for women who are comfortable with their sense of self and style and don't hide behind their clothing. Nick tells me the women who wear her clothes often comment how “they feel carefree, sexy, and confident - that's exactly the feeling I am trying to evoke with each piece. For me that’s the definition of femininity”

For spring summer the collection is a palette of off white ivories and blushes anchored with navy blue and indigo washed denim. For next, colours are darker with bold flashes of rich mustard and hot pink throughout. “Colour is something I think about constantly. The move towards brights is really a nod to my expanding confidence with the range. I guess the colour is not as timid as it was in the beginning, neither am I as a designer.”

My final question to Nick, what's your favourite piece? “Hah, easy.. my Studio Nicholson Navy Crombie. I never take it off, I'm like Linus from Peanuts with his blanket!” It’s easy to see how you might become emotionally attached to her clothes, they’re like a security blanket of style, sass and comfort.

www.studionicholson.com

Out Going

Colour Me In

Christian Louboutin Retrospective Exhibition

1 May - 8 July 2012 - Design Museum, London

The exquisite shoes of Christian Louboutin are this year celebrating their 20th anniversary. With their signature soles, stylish designs, expert workmanship and feat of architectural engineering, Christian Louboutin has developed an icon.

Marking the landmark anniversary Louboutin has re-released key designs from the past, delivered a stunning coffee table book and, as the centrepiece, a major retrospective exhibition at the Design Museum opening next week.

Drawing from Louboutin’s personal archive, the exhibition presents his celebrated shoe designs and the inspirations behind them, demonstrates the craftsmanship involved in their creation and shares his illustrious career.

I'm thrilled at the prospect of tracing the steps of his glossy red soles.

To book tickets and for more information click here.

www.christianlouboutin.com
www.designmuseum.org

Friends

www.beachtomato.com
www.facehunter.blogspot.co.uk
www.fashionfoisgras.com
http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/
www.froufrou.com
www.garancedore.fr/en
www.libertylondongirl.com
www.mariankihogo.com
www.parkandcube.com
www.peonylim.blogspot.co.uk
www.showmeyourwardrobe.com
www.stylebubble.typepad.com
www.the-frugallity.com
www.theclotheswhisperer.co.uk
www.the-northernlight.com
www.thesartorialist.com
www.vogue.com
www.wishwishwish.net
www.5inchandup.blogspot.com

The Case of the Missing Purse

Last week I had my purse picked right out of my pocket - actually it was a zipped up bag but that doesn't sound quite so poetic. Not only did I lose all my debit and credit cards, a minimal amount of cash, my driving license, store vouchers, unchecked lottery tickets (just, don't!) but my beautiful Celine wallet, SOB!

With the belief that lightening never strikes twice I'm going to reinvest in a replacement, while being even more vigilant with my possessions.

Here's my short list...

A clever combination of polished and practical.
Zipped wallet - Comme des Garçons at Net A Porter, £205 - www.net-a-porter.com

Luxurious python and buttery suede, almost edible!
Chloé at Net A Porter, £330 - www.net-a-porter.com

Fuchsia pink leather to act as a brightly coloured beacon in the dark depths of my handbag.
French wallet - Mulberry at Net A Porter, £210 - www.net-a-porter.com

April Showers

I adore this painting by artist Jack Vettriano and called The Singing Butler. The rich colours, the movement, the jovial nature with the sexually charged undertones and above all the ridiculousness of it all. Dancing, in evening dress, on a rain soaked beach, how utterly splendid.

Sadly my reality of rain is a little less romantic - inside out umbrellas, soggy feet and frizzy hair.

While good music won't keep you dry, it might keep you cheerful - stay out of the rain and have a listen.

Click PLAY to hear my playlist of weather themed tracks.

1. Bridge of Troubled Water - Simon & Garfunkel
2. Shake it Out - Florence + The Machine
3. Hurricane - Bob Dylan
4. The Rain - Missy Elliott
5. Treading Water - Alex Clare
6. Flowers - Sweet Female Attitude
7. Hot N Cold - Katy Perry
8. Only Happy When it Rains - Garbage
9. Summer Rain - I Blame Coco
10. Dreams - Fleetwood Mac
11. Singin' in the Rain - Gene Kelly
12. I Can See Clearly Now - Jimmy Cliff

The Stripes of Summer

Nothing sets the scene of my summer quite like a stripe; be it pin, breton, candy or pyjama.

While wishing for spring and day dreaming of summer I've spotted my five favourite stripes of the season.

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From left to right
Since Coco Chanel famously began wearing the standard issue striped t shirt of the French Marines, the timeless lines of the breton top have become a wardrobe staple we've all fallen for. No one more so than ethical label, Chinti and Parker, who demonstrate their love and jazz up the classic stripe with a well placed heart.
T Shirt - Chinti and Parker, £85 - www.net-a-porter.com

Claudia Schiffer took inspiration for her second collection from photographs of Jane Birkin in the 60's. She's modernised the look and created pieces to tick the textured and the stripy box with lines of subtly hued crocheted cotton.
Dress - Claudia Schiffer from Net A Porter, £620 - www.net-a-porter.com

Staying slightly closer to home, Stella McCartney's nostalgic deckchair stripes hark back to British summers by the sea. A pair of tailored shorts will look just as good in the city as at the seaside.
Shorts - Stella McCartney at Browns, £475 - www.brownsfashion.com

Foot lose and hands free, the spirit of summer in a raffia striped across the body bag.
Bag - Marc by Marc Jacobs at Matches Fashion, £255 - www.matchesfashion.cm

Abstract Finnish shoe label, Finsk, create the perfect directional sandal. Strap in and onto the stacked cut away heel with stripes of black and tan leather.
Sandals - Finsk at Beach Tomato Beach Shack, £370 - www.thebeachtomatoshack.com

Chanel's Digital Exhibition

As a prelude to the book release of "The Little Black Jacket: Chanel's classic revisited by Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld", and the supporting exhibition in Tokyo, Chanel tease us with a digital exhibition. 133 images selected from the book have been animated into spinning cylindrical canvases like a child's zoetrope.

Chanel is a fashion house of classics; the two tone pumps, the little black dress, the quilted bag and the pearls, each cleverly reinvented each season by Creative Director, Karl Largerfeld. The book and accompanying exhibitions, a collaboration between Largerfeld and former Editor of French Vogue, Carine Roitfeld, pay homage to the ultimate Chanel classic, the little black jacket.

The power duo invited personalities from the worlds of music, fashion, art, sport and film to style up and interpret the iconic jacket in their own way, each illustrates the true timelessness of this piece.

My personal favourites include, Anna Wintour, identifiable only by her unmistakable bob, Mark Vanderloo, not least because of that incredible torso, the adorable Scarlett Yutzmann Huynh, Jane Birkin with her name sake Hermes bag, pop star Lily Allen looking incredibly glamourous and Carine Roitfeld channelling Coco Chanel herself.

Read about The Secrets of the Chanel Jacket

The Little Black Jacket: Chanel's classic jacket revisited by Karl Lagerfeld and Carine Roitfeld, isn't available until the autumn sadly. In the mean time....

www.thelittleblackjacket.chanel.com

Erin Mullaney's Spring Summer Edit

Last week I headed over to Avenue 32 HQ, a modern building on an industrial street in the shadow of White City Westfield and adjacent to the busy West Way.

Over a milky tea I chatted with Fashion and Brand Director, Erin Mullaney about the spring summer pieces she's currently coveting. As former Buying Director at shopping emporium, Browns, Erin is perfectly poised to introduce her personal dynamism to Avenue 32 and share a diverse wish list of her own on Milk.

See below for Erin's edit of her personal loves, wants and needs!

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AUTHOR Erin Mullaney

My summer style is going to be all about neutrals mixed with colour. I love wearing white, beige and tan in the summer, mixed with army green, fresh brights and bold print. I'll probably keep my outfits quite low key, using coloured accessories and strong jewellery as highlights. I am obsessed with pleated silk dresses, cotton shirts and cool trainers, feeling a lot more feminine this summer than I have in the past few years.

From left to right clockwise

I am always looking for beautiful gowns to wear to all the summer weddings I will be going to and I have found a perfect match in new Brazilian designer Barbara Casasola. Barbara’s dresses are pleated and draped in the most effortless and flattering way and feel so fresh and modern, yet also timeless. - Pleated dress - Barbara Casasola exclusive to Avenue 32, £1,490 - www.avenue32.com

I am obsessed with high top trainers – I collect them and buy a few pairs a season. These amazing limited edition trainers by Pierre hardy for MoP have an even cooler edge than most – the print was done by artist Fiona Banner (Fiona created a print for MoP for ss12 that was intended to be read as a book – it was even published with its own IBAN number) and when you look closely you can see that the words on the side are actually quotes from my all-time favourite cult movie Point Break!! - High top trainers - Pierre Hardy for Mother of Pearl exclusive to Avenue32, £405 - www.avenue32.com

The Palmer Harding boys are my new wardrobe staple for Spring… I am totally addicted to their beautifully made white shirts with a modern twist. This one is definitely a future classic. - White shirt - Palmer Harding at Avenue 32, £265 - www.avenue32.com

I am investing in fine jewellery now as it is something you will have forever and can even pass down as an heirloom. Hannah Martin’s pearl earring (can be worn as a pair or even cooler, just on its own) and pearl ring are on my SS12 wish list. - Pearl earring - Hannah Martin at Avenue 32, £390 - www.avenue32.com

I am obsessed with hand-embroidered bags at the moment, and this one from Sara Battaglia is the perfect summer festival bag. It’s also a great way to wear print and colour with a more neutral outfit. - ‘Mochila’ bag - Sara Battaglia at Avenue 32, £570 - www.avenue32.com

Read more about Avenue 32 on Milk.

www.avenue32.com

British Designers Collective at Bicester Village

Earlier this week myself and about 20 other fashion editors and bloggers met outside Upper Crust at Marylebone station ready to board the 9:07am to Bicester North. A quick train journey and a super speedy coach transfer later, pastry hell was long forgotten as we entered Bicester village - discounted designer heaven! We were invited there to celebrate the opening of the British Designers Collective; a prolonged pop up shop selling the best of Britain's emerging fashion talent.

On the way I chatted to Tourism Manager, Helen Peters, who explained why the concept store is so special... "With the vast number of visitors each day the turn over is in turn huge. The young hot designers that are part of the British Designers Collective wouldn't usually be able to meet that unrelenting demand so this now annual pop up is a brilliant way of introducing the Bicester Village guests to these new great new British Brands."

These thoughts were mirrored by Harold Tillman, Chairman of The British Council, who added during his speech at the launch "The British Designers Collective continues to nurture and support British talent, showcasing ready to wear and accessories to a brand new audience."

After speeches and formalities I took time to fondle the cashmere knits of Bella Freud, gasp at the Nicholas Kirkwood heels, gaze longingly at Jonathan Saunders prints, lust after Hermione de Paula's romantic florals and fall in love with a Pauric Sweeney bag, which if you follow me on twitter you'll know I've been obsessing over ever since!

Past season pieces from a whole host of home grown talent are discounted at up to 60% and merchandised beautifully in a bright and airy space - a modern tribute to an English stately home with illustrated panelling, mock parquet flooring, drawn on feature fireplaces and eccentric aristocratic statues.

Bubbling up from little known labels into desirable designers these British names now have retail space alongside fashion heavy weights like Gucci, Celine, Prada and Dior as The British Fashion Council, this time with the support of Bicester Village, work tirelessly to promote these creative Brits. This year is a BIG year for Britain, the Olympics and the Jubilee are land mark occasions for this little island and so the British Designers Collective seems particularly poignant.

Patriotism aside, bag a bargain future icon and enjoy a spiffing day out in retail heaven.

The Designers Collective is at Bicester Village until May 9th 2012.

www.bicestervillage.com
www.britishfashioncouncil.com

Soft Separates

Another stylish and purse friendly high street edit from, stylist and blogger, Alex.

The fashion world has fallen for soft silks and pastel hues, and the High Street wasn't far from tumbling behind. Clever purchases in expensive looking fabrics will see you safely through this trend.

From left to right

It's a bit literal, a bit Julian Schnabel, but maybe that's what I like about it. Dare to wear out or peeping out from under a crew-neck (in cashmere, of course).
Pyjama shirt - J Crew at Net A Porter, £60 - www.net-a-porter.com

Silk, always timeless but currently having a special moment, add the cute scalloped edge on these shorts and we're on to a winner.
Silk shorts - MiH Jeans, £195 - www.mih-jeans.com

Comfortable, practical yet stylish and unlike many of their shoes, real leather. Everyone's going crazy for these Limited Edition brogues from New Look
Brogues - New Look, £44.99 -www.newlook.com

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Alex Stedman is the author of savvy and stylish blog The Frugality and has recently been named Junior Fashion Editor at Red. Congratulations on your promotion, Alex!

Vestiaire Collective

Already a cult community in France, Vestiaire Collective, has just crossed the channel to share their cunning peer to peer retail concept and their preloved designer wears on our shore.

I took a trip to their head office in Paris, a small but immaculate loft in the smart Parisian suburb of Neuilly. On arrival I was greeted by rails of the finest fashion and a wall of designer shoes; the ultimate walk in wardrobe, manned by a gathering of effortlessly chic Parisians - how do they manage that unfaltering look of "je ne said quoi"?

Sighted as a competitor of Ebay, the two actually draw very few parallels. Firstly, Vestiaire Collective is dedicated to high quality fashion and luxury labels only. Secondly, the items sold on the site are carefully curated, only pieces from recent seasons or vintage items deemed 'on trend' - despite receiving up to 1,000 submissions each day, only around half ever make the edit. Thirdly, there is no bidding - a fixed price (around 30-70% of the original retail value) is negotiated between Vestiaire Collective and the seller based on the demand, availability, relevance and quality of the item suggested for sale. And finally, the crucial difference, Vestiaire Collective work tirelessly to eradicate counterfeit goods, banishing the questionable authenticity of products bought on Ebay. An experienced team process everything to ensure only genuine items of an exceptional standard are sold via their platform, with extensive training and support from many of the labels they sell, including Chanel, a replica will be spotted almost intuitively.

The process begins with the seller submitting their piece; photo's, a thorough description and an asking price. These are then checked against an encyclopaedic knowledge of designer labels and past collections. Each member of this team have an allocated speciality, be it traditional luxury brands; Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent or the newer designer labels; Sandro, Maje, Isabelle Marrant...and so the list continues.

Here one of the team considers a Balenciaga bag as part of the initial submission.

Sadly all the amazing clothes and accessories I spied at HQ were already sold - it is only once an item is bought that it makes its way via free post or collected by courier from the seller to the team at Vestiaire Collective for hands on quality and authenticity checks. If a piece is deemed a fake the transaction is immediately cancelled and the item returned to the owner.

Left: Some of the tools used to check accessories.
Right: An Hermes Birkin, sold for €6,000 in only 15 seconds, barely used and complete with dust bag and original box. This piece has been certified genuine, ready to be wrapped and sent to the buyer.

And so you see, Ebay this is not. Vestiaire Collective is a meticulously edited selection of the most desirable clothes at a discounted price. I've compiled a mental shopping list that includes an embroidered Balmain military jacket, a pair of stacked Miu Miu wedges, high waisted leather shorts from Carven and a monogrammed Goyard tote, each costing just a fraction of the original price.

With a focus on adding value and life to original investment buys rather than fast throwaway away fashion, the concept truly adheres to the old adage, one mans junk is another mans treasure.

www.vestiairecollective.com

Helmut Lang

When I say I'm a person of contrast I'm not referring to a mental state of Bipolar - though I have been known to have the odd erratic moment, who hasn't? - but I'm talking about my wardrobe. Tough and soft is my mantra when dressing and revolves around a default formula, that if strayed away from, leaves me feeling odd, strange and more than a little out of sorts.

Usually it's skinny jeans, a silky top and a blazer finished off with black ankle boots that compiles my uniform and if I'm feeling 'Really Crazy' I might slip on a girly dress, eradicating any ounce of prettiness with a biker jacket and clunky heels.

On a recent trip to Westbourne Grove, I rediscovered American label Helmut Lang. Founded in the 80's, Helmut Lang himself left the label in 2005 but it has since been reincarnated into all its former glory. Developing the minimalist aesthetic of the late 80's and 90's and under the creative direction of husband and wife duo, Michael and Nicole Colovos, the label has once again become instantly recognisable for its deconstructed shapes and fluid draping.

I'm yet to find a brand that does 'tough and soft' quite so well as Helmut Lang. Luxurious natural fabrics; silk, chiffon and jersey are draped and toughened with buttery leathers, impeccable tailoring and biker detailing. They're the kind of pieces you can't help but touch, as I discovered while in the store, there were a few curious glances in my direction as I lovingly stroked everything in sight.

This season the typical Helmut Lang colour palette, largely monochrome in black, grey and white, is softened with a touches of mink and brightened with shocks of sunshine yellow and a rich peacock blue. Each piece brilliantly plays with proportion, depth and dimension and the collection feels modern and wearable.

For someone of many contrasts I simply can't get enough of Helmut Lang's flattering yet easy to wear pieces. They slot in so perfectly with my default wardrobe, for plain days and 'Really Crazy' moments, I longing for all of the below.

From left to right
Leather biker jacket - Helmut Lang at Net A Porter, £1,085 - www.net-a-porter.com
Satin dress - Helmut Lang at Net A Porter, £345 - www.net-a-porter.com
Draped chiffon maxi - Helmut Lang at Net A Porter, £480 - www.net-a-porter.com
Leather trousers - Helmut Lang at Net A Porter, £730 - www.net-a-porter.com
Leather and brushed linen jacket - Helmut Lang at Net A Porter, £580 - www.net-a-porter.com
Leather bag - Helmut Lang at Net A Porter, £755 - www.net-a-porter.com
Jersey skirt - Helmut Lang at Net A Porter, £205 - www.net-a-porter.com

Red Sky at Night

...My delight

I travelled to the countryside last night for a few days out of the city and on arrival was greeted by the most spectacular sunset. What a welcome, the sky was literally ablaze with the most amazing violet and hot pink hues. I hope I've managed to capture some of the magic with this photo.

Avenue 32

Every capital has their ultimate shopping destination, and now there is an online peer, Avenue 32, so called because of the 3D element of a brick and mortar shop experience and the 2D one of an online store.

The digital destination is comparable to London's Bond Steet, Paris' Avenue Montaigne and New York's Madison Avenue, hosting curated boutiques from a finite selection of labels. The 40 luxury designers selling on the site have navigable 'shop fronts', exclusive editorial style content and of course, exceptional merchandise.

It was while trotting down Regent Street - carving through throngs of tourists trying to avoid those who frequently stop in the middle of the pavement to agonise over an A-Z - that I marvelled at the genius of having a virtual street, lined with the most amazing boutiques.

With a love of fashion, interest in technology and expertise in business strategy, co founder, Roberta Benteler, was perfectly positioned to bring this idea to life. She has approached this project through the eyes of a business woman and a retailer, while also considering the designers, who want space online to represent their brand accurately and retail effectively. Speaking of the concept she explains...

"I’ve been a passionate online shopper for the past 7 or 8 years, (since the beginning almost), so I’ve really seen and experienced the market from a customer’s point of view. Today’s online customer has evolved a lot and is much more educated and considerably more demanding with respect to the experience that an online retailer has to offer. I became increasingly frustrated not only with respect to the selection on many sites but also how they were not engaging enough."

"Originally having worked in finance I decided to take time off to pursue my interest in the fashion industry. In 2010 I worked for a young designer, a key experience which enabled me to see the market from a designer’s point of view. I realised how many of them struggle to control the way that their brand is portrayed online and to communicate what their brand is about. Avenue 32 was born out of the desire to create a platform that caters to and supports customers’ and designers’ needs alike."

She enlisted the expert eye of ex-buying director of Browns, Erin Mullaney to fill the role of Fashion & Brand Director. Erin has scouted the finest women’s ready to wear, jewellery and accessory designers to create this innovative online shopping concept. Erin believes "Customers are so savvy now with every brand, fashion show and must have item available at the click of a mouse. We have to make sure we are offering them not just unique product, but unique content and a stimulating experience."

I do think Avenue 32 is a fully immersive online shopping experience. I love the idea of digitally ambling down an avenue, wandering the programmed boutiques and perusing the virtual shelves and rails, all from the comfort of my computer. I also love that once the 'buy' button is clicked the virtual experience ends, and that my purchase will arrive as soon as the next day, ready to enjoy - in real life.

www.avenue32.com

Lady Like High Street Buys

Stylist, blogger and savvy shopper, Alex, shares her favourite pieces from the high street, in store now.

I've been really inspired by the High Street recently, and rather than a pick of 3 random gems, I've managed to piece together an entire ready-to-wear outfit!

From left to right

It's all about the pointy toe this season, and these pastel courts have particularly got my attention. Snap these up before they go.
Shoes - Zara, £69.99 -www.zara.com

Stella McCartney or a very clever High Street purchase? Must you even ask!
Sweater - Cos, £45 - www.cosstores.com

Make like Mary Katrantzou in this ornate reflective print pencil skirt, pair with stilettos or flats.
Skirt - River Island, £25 -www.riverisland.com

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Alex Stedman is the Senior Fashion Assistant at Red. See more of her stylish but budget buys on The Frugality, her blog that's not just about being cheap, but being smart.

www.the-frugality.com

Where's the Dress

Click PLAY to listen to a playlist inspired by Jackie Dixon's shoot for Milk, Where's the dress.

View the full shoot here

1. Call Me - Blondie
2. Ashes to Ashes - David Bowie
3. Gimme - She Keeps Bees
4. Just a Girl - No Doubt
5. Scandinavian Crush - Craft Spells
6. Rio - Duran Duran
7. The Look - Metronomy
8. Fool Boy - Liam Bailey
9. Black Balloon - The Kills
10. Who is She - I Monster
11. Stuck on the Puzzle - Alex Turner
12. Rich Kids Blues - Lykke Li

Playlists

Amanda Wachob Tattoo's

To say I'm not a fan of tattoo's would be a bit of an understatement, I'm much to prim to ever want something permanently branded on my flesh and I can't even commit to a nail colour for longer than a couple of days, it would only ever end in tears after the needle had been brandished.

That said, I do often see and like the tattoo's of others and occassionally there is a momentary and miniscule stir of something teetering on changing my mind, but then I look at my chipped nails and remember.

However, on a recent trip to New York I came across tattoo and fine artist Amanda Wachob who made me ponder a little longer.

Her abstract tattoos cleverly emulate the confident and fluid brush strokes of a modern art piece while feeling authentic and tribal. I'm no expert but she seems to achieve an extraordinary quality, a mix of strong vivid lines and soft water marks I've never seen in body art before.

I was actually quite tempted...but don't worry Mum, I'm still ink free.

www.amandawachobtattoo.com
www.amandawachob.com

LOVE

I'm imagining it hasn't escaped your notice that today is Valentines Day. How could we forget with the assault of roses, hearts and sentiment?

Celebrate the old fashioned way...dance with your loved ones.

Be it a waltz or a jig, here's a love inspired playlist on Spotify, a modern day mix tape.

Click to play

1. I Fall In Love Too Easily – Chet Baker
2. At Last – Etta James
3. 2×2 – Mr Hudson & The Library
4. Soul Love – David Bowie
5. That Ole Devil Called Love – Billie Holiday
6. Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic – The Police
7. Love Lockdown – Kanye West
8. Sexy Boy – Air
9. I Love You – Esser
10. Like I Love You – Justin Timberlake

Wiseton Road

HAIR Maki Tanaka using Bumble and Bumble
MAKE UP Sofia Bermudez using MAC Cosmetics
MODEL Karin Hasson at Next Models
STYLISTS ASSISTANT Amber Coleman

The Cover Up

Charlotte Reed

Colliding pattern and contrasting textures, we loved Charlotte Reed's style and the fact she was only carrying the very bare essentials, a single pair of keys.

Natasha Staples

Never before had we seen such a glamorous cyclist so we pulled over Natasha and her bike Mavis for a quick search!

It's Hermes - ing!

2nd January 2012 - Harrods Room of Luxury II, Ground Floor

"Adorn me in 15 silk scarves!" was my diva-ish demand upon arriving at the Herme's pop up in Harrods. And so the stylists on hand did, plaiting, tying, twisting, knotting, layering and cinching over £3,000 worth of silk to create some major Hermes head to toe.

Celebrating a 20 year relationship with Hermes, Harrods is paying homage to the Silk scarf with a dedicated space in the room of luxury until the 2nd January. The space includes an Hermes how to - be styled and advised on ways to wear a scarf while a photographer captures the moment - a library to shop of classic designs and two exclusive new styles entitled Hermes Pour Harrods'.

An Hermes scarf is the internationally recognised signature of a wealthy woman - draped over her shoulders, knotted around her neck or tied around the handle of her Birkin bag - but there are so many more ways to sport their scarves, 1,000 apparently. As illustrated by a genius collection of Hermes Knot Cards given upon purchase of each scarf.

The Hèrmes Pop-up Shop, Monday 5th December 2011 to Monday 2nd January 2012 Harrods Room of Luxury II, Ground Floor

Thanks to Shini of www.parkandcube.com for the image.

www.harrods.com
www.hermes.com

The Sleeveless Jacket

Keep sharp and nipped in with winters layering solution, the sleeveless jacket. Wear over a biker or under a parker, make it your own with a boyish trilby and brogues a la Dolce, go professional with some unmatched tailoring or style over a silky dress for those who never quite let go of summer. This is a trans-seasonal we wonder how we lived without!

From left to right

We're in love with glamorous practicality; this reversible shearling is that and a whole lot more.
Grey shearling gilet - Joseph at My Wardrobe, £690 - www.mywardrobe.com

Did we tell you black is back? Channel your inner-goth.
Black wool waistcoat with tulle overlay - Acne at Browns, £760 - www.brownsfashion.com

It’s not often the High Street gets tailoring this right, at this cost.
Herringbone waistcoat - Karen Millen, £160 - www.karenmillen.com

Her Morning Elegance

48 hours of footage took nearly 6 months of editing to create 3 minutes and 36 seconds of captivating and adorable stop motion video.

I implore you to please take this time out of your day to watch the music video for Oren Lavie's single, Her Morning Elegance, it's utterly magical.

www.orenlavie.com

Tiffany Skate

Last week Tiffany & Co celebrated the opening of their annual ice rink at Somerset House with a fabulous party. I popped along to enjoy the rich hot chocolate, the molten raclette cheese and the sweet voice of Emilie Sande who sung in front of the Christmas tree and switched on the lights.

While the singer won't be there all the time, DJ's and Club Nights will ensure visitors not only get their skates on but also their groove. The line up is pretty spectacular, including sets by Joey Negro and the gang behind Lovebox. There's also a full itinerary of events during the day; Lessons for little ones, performances from pros and Tom's Skate Lounge if you'd rather admire than indulge! See the full line up here

There are lots of Ice Rinks that pop in London over Christmas and in the New Year but the Courtyard at Somerset House is by far my favourite. Of course there's something impossibly glamorous about the rinks affiliation with Tiffany, but also it's perfectly located to follow a stroll along the embankment or a visit to the Christmas Market on the Southbank to get feeling really festive!

www.somersethouse.org.uk/ice-rink

Create My Tweet

I am SO excited that I am now in possession of a personal illustration by Natasha Law, cleverly and specially created on the new Samsung Galaxy Note

The art work was devised as part of the Samsung Create my Tweet campaign and the result of my tweet "@SamsungMobile please #CreateMyTweet 'An urban Milk Maid writing a blog' Thank you!'

Below is the artist herself talking about the project and the functions of the Note.

Thank you to Samsung and Natasha Law for creating my tweet!

Natalie Hartley

While out stopping and searching we chanced upon Natalie. As the Senior Fashion Editor at www.instyle.co.uk and with her own blog Natalie Hartley Wears, Natalie is regular on the street style scene, here she showed the details of her look.

A flash of gold on her heel and a pop of orange on her lips set off Natalie's charcoal and denim look, with further edge added by stacks of gold and silver rings.

Ghost of Gone Birds

2nd - 23rd November 2011 Rochelle School, Arnold Circus, Shoreditch, London E2 7ES

A passionate duo, committed to the conservation of birds are raising a creative army to breath artistic life back into already extinct birds species with an exhibition, Ghosts of Gone Birds, to raise money and awareness for BirdLife International's Preventing Extinctions programme.

200 new works from artists as diverse as Sir Peter Blake, Ralph Steadman, Charming Baker, Rob Ryan and Kai & Sunny feature in this beautiful and meaningful exhibition that's both inspiring and informative. The birds, so beautifully depicted, will sadly never grace the skies with their flight again, each bird featured in this exhibition has sadly been lost, become extinct, never to be seen again and immortalised only in art.

Click here to purchase prints online and here for more information.

www.ghostsofgonebirds.com

Zenos Frudakis' Freedom Sculpture

Evocative and powerful, this bronze sculpture entitled Freedom is utterly inspiring; offering up a universal sense of desire for freedom and jubilant relief. The sculptor, Zenos Frudakis explained how he "...wanted to create a sculpture almost anyone, regardless of their background, could look at and instantly recognize that it is about the idea of struggling to break free..."

The sculpture stands larger than life at 20 feet long x 8 feet high, located outside the GSK World Headquarters Philadelphia. In a moment of dismay it gave me such a feeling of strength and empowerment, reinstalling the belief that anything can be achieved!

Click here to read more about Freedom and to visit Zenos Frudakis' website.

Filiz Hassan

Filiz showed us that you can be pregnant and utterly glam! We spotted her a mile off blooming on Bond Street and carrying the ultimate classic, an Hermes Birkin, our magpie eyes we were also drawn by her layered evil eye bracelets, collected over 15 years from her native Turkey.

Shoes for Show

4th - 8th November 2011

Shoes aren't always functional; aching arches, bruised balls and burning blisters, we've all been there! While some shoes look better than they feel, others are simply just for show and entirely unwearable.

Taking not just steps but giant leaps away from practical footwear, this carefully edited selection of shoes is about as far from a visit to Clarks as could possibly be! Shoes for Show, is a display of the most outlandish and outrageous, expect to see feats of engineering and architecture and works of art and sculpture. Featuring one off designs, iconic shoes and customised or bespoke pieces borrowed from the private collections of individuals such as Daphne Guinness and Christian Louboutin and from the show archives of designers and couturiers.

The exhibition is free and open from 11am - 7pm at The Loading Bay, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL

www.javari.co.uk

Beach Art

The First Actresses: Nell Gwyn to Sarah Siddons

20 October 2011 - 8 January 2012

Celebrity magazines that obsess over every inch of Jennifer Aniston, Scarlett Johansson and Angelina Jolie maybe a relatively modern comodity, but even as far back as the eighteenth century, actresses were under extreme scrutiny and their every move, angelic or scandalous, illustrated to their adoring public.

A revealing exhibition at [url=www.npg.org.uk ]The National Portrait Gallery[/url] allows the intriguing and notorious actresses of the eighteenth century to take centre stage. illustrating the remarkable popularity of the female actor in the past and exploring the vivid spectacle of eighteenth-century femininity, The First Actresses is curated from an impressive array of museum loans and previously unseen private collections from across the world. Depicting actresses in their celebrated stage roles, intimate and sensual off-stage portraits and mass-produced caricatures and prints, the exhibition explores how these images contributed to the growing reputation and professional status of leading female performers.

As a counterpoint to the exhibition, an accompanying display of portraits drawn from the Gallery’s exisiting collections, shows some of today’s actresses Including paintings of Dame Judi Dench and Dame Helen Mirren, and photographs of Vanessa Redgrave. The complementing display, The Actress Now, looks at modern celebrity culture.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.npg.org.uk

Ashish Skeleton Dress

I don't buy into Halloween being an excuse to dress up as a sexy kitten or a slutty witch, on the flip side I'm equally as indifferent to those who simply throw a sheet over their heads and claim to be a ghost, especially as the later costume will last all of 2 minutes!

While a little black dress is a tried and tested fool proof formula to party dressing, adding spine chilling sparkle with an all over skeletal sequin formation will nail halloween and autumn/winters glittering trend while remaining true to the LBD. This dress by London Fashion Week favourite and notorious sequin scatterer, Ashish, finds just the right balance between spooky sophistication and eery elegance.

Available at www.selfridges.com priced at £1,025

Where's the Dress

HAIR Lara Zee at Naked Artists
MAKE UP Angela Davis-Deacon at Naked Artists
PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT David Stewart
STYLISTS ASSISTANT Clara Olowookere and Philip Smith
WITH SPECAIL THANKS TO Kirsty Hathaway and all at Beach Tomato

Vice Do's and Dont's Book

The VICE book of Do's and Don'ts has just landed on my desk and I must say it’s bloody funny with 400 photographs of properly snigger inducing images, cruel and witty captions and hilarious characters .

Documenting the dizzy heights and murky depths of street fashion with unashamedly rude and uncomprimisingly critical captions to accompany the special moments caught on camera. DOs are put on a pedestal that soars way past God and DON'Ts criticise beyond redemption.

Some images may need a second look to understand the suggestive innuendo, embarrassing body part or micky taking tag-line, while others are immediately hysterical and instantly funny; all tap into an cruel humour it takes a saint not to posses.

The book is available to purchase for £9.99 and can be found in most good book shops.

Look at Vice's Do's and Don'ts on line here

Somewhereto__

The country's most famous front door has been unlocked and young people involved in arts, culture and sport welcomed in to practice and showcase their passions.

As part of an Olympic legacy project Somewhereto__, Number 10 Downing Street led by example and opened up to give 10 talented and eager individuals free rein of the builidng. While 2 freerunners leaped over the grand stair case, past portraits of Prime Minsters old and new, before back flipping through the hallway out to the garden and 2 boxers threw punches around the Pillared State Drawing Room the 4 person Rubix Collective bounced inspiring and poetic words across the State Dinning Room - "We have nowhere to go. Nowhere for our creative seeds to be sown. You've built buildings to become derelict and let useable space go to waste. So we say put innovative enery into creating what we already have."

Watch the video here.

An exciting and encouraging incentive, at its heart Somewhereto_ is about unlocking spaces nationwide so 16-25 year olds have the capacity to do the things they love in the areas they live in, be it a a dance studio, an empty shop unit or a dormant warehouse or vacated office.

Speaking of the campaign Prime Minister, David Cameron said "If Downing Street can open its doors to something as adventurous as free running I hope it will inspire other people to see what their building could be used for."

The message from the young people involved is to "...Think it through; ask not what space can do for you, but what you can do for our space because we need space."

Founded by Legacy Trust UK, an independent charity set up to help build lasting cultural and sporting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, somewhereto__ run by Livity, a youth engagement agency in partnership with Channel 4 Education.

Trend Notes - Spots and Dots

Be spot on this season with dots, circles, spheres and disks as seen on the A/W catwalks.

Many of the seasons collections gave a mixture of playful polka dots, futuristic laser cut disks or peekaboo spots. Circles adorned classically feminine shapes and strict linear silhouettes in a mix of gossamer sheens and naive primary colours, adding dimension and fun. The frivolity of spherical prints and pattern created a suprising juxtaposition with the smart forms of ladylike dressing.

In a collection that was largely monochrome, David Koma added shiny circles to undulate vertically down bodycon dresses that created distorted linear pattern tricking the eye as the body stretched and curved in confused and exaggerated proportions. Leather punched with symmetrical holes woked into full skirts and arm sleeves and colourful oversize fur pom poms placed nonchalantly around the neck and torso added texture and dimension.

The large crayola colour spots and excessive amounts of balloons at Louise Gray was an instant indication of the fun to ensue. The notoriously chaotic Gray found an unusual synergy pairing polka dots with tartan and checkerboard prints and painted on oversize pixilatied plaid mohair. Shapes were loose fitting and haphazard but pulled together by luxurious fabrics and the continuous peep of a polka dot heeled wellington and the brightly painted measel spots on the faces of many of the Models.

Diane Von Furstenburg and Stella McCartney both used peekaboo polkadots to create sexy pieces with flesh just tantalisingly out of sight. Von Fustenburg showed slouchy long dresses with spotty mesh cut outs while at Stella body-con dresses and sharp tailoring featured provocative panels of spot mesh snaking around the body and strategically placed cut out disks. Both revealed everything but at the same time nothing!

Cut out disks also featured at Christopher Kane, Marc Jacobs and Prada. Kane's were small iridescent sequins, positioned amongst the liquid filled plastic that trimmed and detailed the entire collection on slim dresses. At Marc Jacobs and Prada disks were oversized and used layered to create a luxurious and elaborate reptilian type skins crafted into pencil skirts and boxy blouses. Pieces looked otherworldly at Prada in luminous and shimmering colours while Marc Jacobs was sexy and perhaps even a little sinister. Marc Jacobs was the pioneer of this spherical trend, showing spots head to toe. Mixing his layered laser cutouts with circle embossed jacquard, miniature berets coquettishly poised and spotty tights.

If your dotty for dots then place yourself in the spot light and wear them in sophisticated shapes and slim womanly silhouettes in silks, satins, lace and sequins.

From left to right
Louise Gray, Stella McCartney, Prada, Marc Jacobs, Diane Von Furstenburg, Christopher Kane, DAvid Koma, Louise Gray and Marc Jacobs

London Fashion Week Day 5

With bleary eyes on the last womens wear day at London fashion week we watched Mary Katrantzou's collection unfold like a chrysalis into the most sublime butterfly. The old Eurostar terminal was transformed into a rainbow of riotous colour and uproarious prints. Models walked round a flower bed of carnations adorned with butterfly wings, crunched up metal, florals, bashed up cadillacs, shoals of shimmering fish, tin cans, coral sea beds. The natural and the man made were combined to look like bright surrealist paintings, printed on structured cocktail dresses with chiffon trains, cropped bomper jackets and slouchy shirts.

Mustard, magenta, orange, peppermint and champagne, Roksanda Ilincic created her own unique rainbow of voluminous lines and oddly flattering proportions. Taffeta and jacquard created structure throughout the colection while silk added movement. Oversized undulated pleats formed drop waists and bell sleeves, long columns of colour, bright t shirts, peasant trousers belted with neon rope and loose fitting blazers.

True to form Meadham Kirchhoff presented a bizarre and absolutely bonkers show. A gaggle of dolly birds dancing the cancan in silky slips and matching tights took centre stage. Walking around the madness were models with candy floss curls, rosey cheeks and neon lips tressed up in a mismatch of clownish clothes; checks, hearts, crochet, fluff and feathers, cartoonish smiley faces, baby-doll dresses and short 60's silhouettes. Playful, cheeky and outlandish we were given a powder puff pantomime that lifted everyones spirits!

Check back here daily as I share all that I've seen or follow Me (@_TheMilkMaid) on twitter on twitter for real time tweets straight from the shows.

London Fashion Week Day 4

Playing with light, tides and waves crashing on an Indonesian shore, Peter Pilotto delivered distorted and pixilated prints that circulated and contoured the body. The colours of the tropics were off set by sporty details, panelling, and scuba zips down the length of the body.

There were so many veins to Christopher Kane's collection yet all blended so seamlessly together. Shimmering printed leather or plain satin shift dresses with origami folds and slashed layers, a collage of paper flowers sown on to sheer gauze and tailored into sensible pinafore dresses and jackets, heavily embellished pieces, crystals placed into tiny flourishes that were repeated over and over to look like a kaleidoscope of blooms. Long columns and to the thigh lengths created an absolute marvel, anchored with oversized sleeveless cricket sweaters or variations on the white shirt; sailor bib, buttoned up with shorsleeved or grandad collar.

Erdem seemed to use a flower press, preserving tiny violets and daisys inbetween blocks of fragmented ice, printing the whispery shards on various dresses in the coolest blues. We then watched spring emerge, as the floral prints blossomed into wild flowers from a meadow, in warm yellow and pink hues. Later came the finest, most intricate lace, so delicate it could have been made from cobwebs, layered over neutral silks. There was something very fragile about Erdem's collection, like a breath might shatter or blow it away, it was both brilliantly crafted and beautifully emotive.

Christopher Bailey at Burberry Prorsum used plum, teal, russet, olive and forest green to create a collection that didn't feel entirely fit for summer but was perhaps realistic for England. Pieces were cheered by tribal fabrics and embellishments. Naive coloured shapes were perfectly placed to look ethnic and dance around the necklines of t shirts and on the collars of short hessian jackets and trench coats with dress or tulip skirts. Embellished belts pulled in waists and decorated ankles while more colourful peruvian herringbone fabrics were used on voluminous jackets and slim fitting pencil skirts. Many have said this collection was a return to form for Burberry, a step away from the corporate machine, there was very minimal evidence of the check!

It felt like Todd Lynn gave us an exhale. There was a sense of muted rage, that moment when anger subsides leaving only relief, or in this case slashed and torn up clothes expertly and beautifully reconstructed and tailored into a collection of visually commanding pieces. Silk satin in truffle, champagne, silvery greys, inky blues and black added dimension and floating trains to pieces based around suiting and shirting, with key hole cut outs revealing linning or skin and cleverly draped fabric to accentuate the body. Despite the many facets the collection was essential minimal, with a gothic glossy sheen.

The day ended on a high, Giles gave us a couture collection in the grand and intimidating setting of The Royal Courts of Justice. As previous Creative Director of Bottega Veneta Giles Deacon showed us just how well he could work with leather; impecabbly detailed laser cut silver skins crafted into modern tailoring and fantastically feminine pieces, an absolute triumph. Red derived from the collision swan print which featured throughout pulled the collection together with a flash here and a separate there. Beyond the elaborate feathers, menacing swan head dresses - created by Stephen Jones and dresses of ball gown proportions was a collection of individual items that would be a pleasure to wear and a treasure forever!

Check back here daily as I share all that I've seen or follow Me (@_TheMilkMaid) on twitter on twitter for real time tweets straight from the shows.

London Fashion Week Day 3

Egyptian hieroglyphics graffitied on the wardrobe of a late 80's hip hop queen, who also borrowed some pieces from Cleopatra, were shown at Topshop Unique. Cream, pink and gold came accented in black and gold lacquer. Bold, vivid, club kid pattern and squiggles derived from the typography of ancient egypt decorated throughout, with particular focus on an abstract all seeing eye used frequently as an icon.

Lattice cut out and sheer fabrics were layered and tailored at Marios Schwab to create a fierce collection of 70's dresses with a line skirts, sweat heart necklines and cut away shoulders, don't be mistaken, this collection wasn't pretty, pretty. It seemed Marios' collection was based almost entirely around the triangle, exposed triangles of flesh, triangle panels, triangle detailing - breast plates, straps, necklines and hems. Where material was nipped, tucked and tailored the fabric created doubled up detailing at the seams, fastenings, pockets and darts that seamed to toughen up pieces and highlight the exquisite detail. Colour isn't worth mentioning, it wasn't about the colour but futuristic fabrics abstractly tailored into relatively classic styles.

In homage to their Oh I Say seaside collection of Lollypop colour blocking and candy floss styling, Mulberry throw an elaborate and fitting party with a performance from the Hurts, sherbet proscecos, fish and chips, arcade machines and a very life like fortune telling Anna Wintour. The ballroom at Claridges was filled almost entirely with inflatable helium animal balloons which were given out at the end making for an hilarious taxi ride home with an inflatable zoo.

Check back here daily as I share all that I've seen or follow Me (@_TheMilkMaid) on twitter on twitter for real time tweets straight from the shows.

London Fashion Week Day 2

Daks, a personal fashion week favourite, used their heritage check in summer weights and spring time styles with a collection of 50's seaside shapes. The Daks check was reinvented with flashes of red or used miniature and on the bias, to seamlessly pull together a minimal palette of navy blue, white and beige. Full midi skirts in nautical stripes were worn with halter necks, layered over and unbuttoned to reveal high waisted thigh shorts.

Print perfection at Clements Ribeiro. Once again the duo showed a mature confidence with brave combinations and clashes of contrasting prints. Last season lace and leopard diffused together and this season it was oversized paisley patterns dancing prettily on silk, psychedelic monochrome squares playing with dimension overlaid with coloured floral lace to add relief on slouchy skater shorts, peg leg trousers, pencil skirts, shirt dresses and bias cut tea dresses. The colour palette was of candyfloss, baby blue and pink, muted were it not for the chess board patterns distorting and playing with the eye and the inky embroidery of darker lace.

Julien Macdonald played around with monochrome also, with a collection accented throughout with black. Chintzy blue prints and mathmatical yellow knitted pattern were laquered throughout with black gloss, piping, leather or mesh panels. Looks were layered, with pieces thrown on nonchalantly and tailored or nipped in at the waist with long skinny metallic belts. Macdonald seemed to be having a love affair with the shoulder this season, cut away, bare and sensual, dresses, jackets and waistcoats exposed this unusually sexy area and skimmed the rest of the form. Strong accessories pulled the collection together, hi top chaueffuer hats, fierce modular sunglasses and dangerous looking shoes.

The wardrobe and flower bed of an eccentric lady gardner was bought to life and covered in sequins at Ashish. Every element of a cottage garden was used and referenced to create slouchy, shapeless and glittery pieces. Trousers held up by bailing twine, long baggy dresses and haphazard jackets patterned in sequins with brick walls, oversized sunflowers, checkered table cloths, perfectly planted flower rows and out of control rambling foliage.

Jaeger presented an entirely wearable collection in pastel colours and bold stripes. Seaside styling, scalloped edges, broderie anglaise layers, demure lengths, box pleats and silky prints kept tailoring more girly than feminine, with a collection made almost entirely of separates for absolute versatility and function.

Palm tree and pineapple prints at Issa who delivered a collection with the spririt of a carnival. Demure cotton suits (fit for a princess perhaps) and classic Issa draped silk dresses in colourful and citrus fruity shades and pattern.

After a highly acclaimed collection of minty green and coral kaleidoscope and techno paisley prints formed into impeccable pieces, Jonathan Saunders deserved a drink. A celebratory party at Gordon Ramsey's new restaurant on Bread Street was just the right occasion. Full of the East End cool kids, Saunders was amongst his peers, while Gordan Ramsey looked a little out of place amongst the fashion circus, but seemed both pleased and amused with the nights proceedings. Great fun was had by all highlighted by a hula hoop dancer, grey goose cocktails and deep fried oysters served in their shell.

Check back here daily as I share all that I've seen or follow Me (@_TheMilkMaid) on twitter on twitter for real time tweets straight from the shows.

London Fashion Week Day 1

So, London Fashion Week is in full flow, beginning soon after 9am with Paul Costelloe at the British Fashion Council Tent in the courtyard of Somerset House.

The very first look of the season to strut down the catwalk was a fine tweed skirt suit, pretty and prim in equal measure, a concept the ensuing collection played with throughout. Costelloe delivered a heady and perhaps confusing mix of 80's conservative combined with grunge and 60's Jackie O and cutsey fills. Swinging cropped pea coats matched with shift dresses, frilled and ruffled baby doll or smock dresses, empire lines, fluffs and frills and skirt suits or belted safari dresses. What did remain a constant throughout is the mid thigh lengths and a mostly muted colour palette in champagne with occasional sparkles of mint or raspberry.

Corrine Neilson then dropped the hem line often to dramatically trained dresses and perfectly tailored peg legs. Abstract tailoring with miss matched seams and unusual tucks created structure and organic shapes. Models walked lethargically but poetically down the catwalk to a sound track of eerily broken chimes and bird song. Playing with structure and proportion Neilson, created dramatic silhouettes with oversized shoulders and exaggerated hips.

Jena. Theo was a highlight of the day, making the best use of the industrial space of the 'My Beautiful Fashion' venue at the Old Sorting Office in Holborn, with a series of flowing shirts, blouses and dresses that contrasted, rather than jarred, with the rugged interior. Flowing silks and chiffon's were tailored into oversized masculine suiting and shirting, the floaty layers underpinned with skinny trousers or shorts. Silks were printed with smudgy clouds with whispers of colour anchored with alternating black panels. Jena. Theo's collection was inspiring but utterly wearable.

Continuing the gray hues at Jean Pierre Braganza with an abstract use of tonal colour used to create angular patterns fading in and out of focus with a series of angular dresses, maxi skirts and power tuxes. Again there were flashes of colour, this time coral, which added depth and dimension to the otherwise monochrome collection.

In complete contrast to anything seen on day one, Sass and Bide showcased a youthful, playful and frivolous collection of polka dots, bright primary colours and graphic, modernised aztec details. Tribal embellishment created tactile texture which fitted harmoniously with silky and metallic fabrics and horizontal panels of revealing sheer gauze

Day 1 done. Check back here daily as I share all that I've seen or follow Me (@_TheMilkMaid) on twitter on twitter for real time tweets straight from the shows.

London Fashion Week in a Digital Age

As London Fashion Week kicks off today The British Fashion Council (BFC) continue their endevour to unite fashion and digital innovation. They're encouraging engagement with London Fashion Week through social media, live streaming and pioneering new technologies, opening up the industry event to keen fashion followers.

Conversation about LFW will be promoted via Twitter using the hashtag #LFW and via the official account @LondonFashionWk and Q&A sessions will be held over the next 6 days this account so that Tweeters can pose questions in real time to guests including Laura Bailey (BFC Cultural Ambassador), NEWGEN designer Louise Gray and Caroline Rush (BFC CEO), using the hashtag #AskLFW.

After Burberry Prorsum's appearance on the bill board in Leicester Square last season the live streaming schedule continues to expand and innovate. This season 33 shows will be live streamed, 23 from the BFC Show Space at Somerset House, 7 courtesy of Topshop from their official venue Old Eurostar Terminal, Waterloo, as well as shows around town including, again, Burberry Prorsum. These can be watched on the LED screens in the courtyard at Somerset House or online. New to Fashion Week this season is the BFC Cinema, showing all BFC Show Space live streams, as well as a dedicated film programme, with highlights including a day of films by NEWGEN alumni, a morning showcasing Estethica brands and an afternoon with Test Presents. The schedule can be seen here and watched real time here

New technology Aurasma will be bringing LFW to digital life this season. Aurasma is capable of recognising images and objects in the real world and seamlessly integrating them with rich video content and audio. Download the Aurasma Lite app on a smart phone, hold the phone over the LFW logo or image, and be privvy to exclusive LFW video content.

This digital technology only adds to the excitement of London Fashion Week and enables everyone to be involved!

Check back here daily as I share all that I've seen or follow Milk (@TheMilkZine) on twitter on twitter for real time tweets straight from the shows.

www.londonfashionweek.co.uk
www.britishfashioncouncil.com

London Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012

So, it's that time of year again; London Fashion Week kicks off tomorrow with the Spring Summer 2012 catwalk collections.

As I'm thinking of packing away my summer wardrobe to make room for the soon to be needed cosy knits and woolen trousers, London designers are putting the finishing flourishes and last minute touches to next summers wardrobe.

On arriving back from New York (read about my New York Fashion Week experience here) I could barely open my door for all the post.

Yes, some were letters of concern from my bank telling me to stop spending money in Saks, J Crew and Madewell, but most were an array of exciting and appealing invites to the weeks shows.

With over 64 shows, 202 exhibitors and countless events, London Fashion Week is an innovative and versatile mix of ideas, inspiration and inevitable exhaustion, I can't wait!

Check back here daily as I share all that I've seen or follow Milk (@TheMilkZine) on twitter on twitter for real time tweets straight from the shows.

Coloma Iradier

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

Whimsical and ethereal amongst the blooms of a Bond Street flower stand; the prettily dressed Coloma, opened up her satchel to reveal optrex, gum and credit card, the later an obvious essential in Mayfair!

Fashion Night Out 2011

8th September 2011

Commercial master mind and US Vogue Editor, Anna Wintour, dreamt up Fashion Night Out as an initiative to accelerate the growth of the flailing economy. With fashion contributing significantly to profitable trade, Vogue's Fashion Night Out gives us great reason to go shopping, safe in the guilt free knowledge we're only doing our bit to help!

Now in it's third year, running across cities globally, this year sees Fashion Night Out spreads it's wings across an even larger expanse of London; Additional stores on Bond Street, Oxford Street and Regent will participate, as well as stores in Marylebone, Bloomsbury, Knightsbridge and Chelsea. The list of retailers is eye wateringly and credit card bashingly large, with an elaborate itinerary of celebrity dj's, drinks receptions, guest appearances, previews, competitions and photo opportunities.

Luxury stores like Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Boodles and Chanel will be holding their heavy gilt doors open for the occassion as will as a whole host of high street stores. Reiss, Marks & Spencer, Gap, H&M and amonst others, House of Fraser are joining in the fun as part of High Street Fashion Week - a 5 day schedule of events centered around Oxford Street, running from today until 9th September 2011.

The Milk team plan on walking the red carpet at Jimmy Choo, munching a quintessentially English canape at Mulberry, sipping a glass of champagne at Browns, learning to tie silk scarves at Hermes, previewing the new collection at Acne and enjoying double celebrations at Karen Millen as the brand also celebrates it's 30th anniversary. We're also beside ourselves as Net A Porter announced there involvement in the evening with an innovative new concept entitled "The Window Shop", bridging the divide between retail and online, for one night only.

For a full list of stores participating in Vogue's Fashion Night Out click here. Visit the Oxford Street Facebook page for the latest events schedule over High Street Fashion Week.

http://fashions-night-out.vogue.co.uk
www.oxfordstreet.co.uk

Trend Notes - Horizontal Prints

Animal print, baroque tapestries, city skylines and rural landscapes; all placed horizontally to drip, dissolve and diffuse vertically, merging like a landslide with pattern growing from the hem or falling from the neck on languid swishes and long columns of silky, colour rich fabrics.

A kind of bleeding print was seen at Clements Ribeiro, regal red baroque shapes smudged into a neutral animal print. The contrasting patterns melting down prim midi skirts and slim dresses with flourishes of royal blue to highlight.

Creating print from a similar inspiration and era, ornate porcelains, opulent Faberge eggs and textured tapestries, Brit designer of the moment, Mary Katrantzou, created contrasting blocks of elaborate detail across the body. The elaborate prints were worked into bulbous and sculptural shapes that bought a modernity to enhance the absolute old school eccentricity of her beautifully detailed fabrics.

Jonathan Saunders also worked a baroque aesthetic, though more graphic, bolder and with added youth, he used just the essence and movement of the elaborate and sumptuous patterns of previous centuries. Slim 40’s shapes provided the neutral well groomed background for acid coloured curls and flicks of a repeated baroque pattern, filtering through into plain slices of fabric.

Even more ornate curls were seen at Holly Fulton, who depicted the New York skyline in intricate Art Deco swirls that came tumbling down to the floor fluidly. Within a collection of many embellishments; beads, sequins and feathers; a few stand out pieces of Fulton’s were those stripped back, without excessive details, the only dimension added by the intensity and exuberance of the prints beautifully illustrative.

Irwin and Jordan also used a landscape, but in stark contrast to the hustle of New York theirs featured the horizon at sunset with a flock of swallows. Rich hues of pink, crimson, inky blue and purples provided a watery background for the dark silhouette of birds in low flight, giving movement and diversity to simple shifts and loose, relaxed shapes.

Design duo Basso and Brook used birds in a more abstract sense, photographs of feathers, blown up to oversize and layered at the hem, becoming more obscure towards the high neck and fading out to just textured markings.

These printed collisions were surprisingly sophisticated, it’s about being brave with pattern, mixing print on print on print confidently in layers of delicately luxe fabric complimented with tactile textures like velvet and python.

From left to right
Clements Ribeiro, Mary Katrantzou, Jonathan Saunders, Holly Fulton, Clements Ribeiro, Irwin and Jordan and Basso and Brook

Flower Power Bicycle Parade

28th August 2011, 4pm

I've always romanticised the idea of a bike, with a big wicker basket filled each day with fresh flowers which perfectly match the floral print of my vintage silk tea dress.

In reality, wearing a tea dress to bike around in is potentially pant flashing and there's no room for fresh flowers amongst a heavy hand bag and an essential ugly anorak in case of rain.

For one day only, my dream may be realised, with a Flower Power Bicycle Parade in celebration of the Mayor’s Story of London Festival curated by Museum of London . Recreating the floral bicycle parade that took place in Haringey for the Festival of Britain in 1951 the event also celebrates the Southbank Centres 60th anniversary.

The cycle begins from the Southbank Centre at 4pm but decorating stations will be open from 2pm to floralise cycles and cyclists in association with Arena Flowers

Click here for more information

www.museumoflondon.org.uk
www.southbankcentre.co.uk
www.arenaflowers.com

Maria Petit

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT LUKE FREEMAN

There was something effortlessly elegant about Maria's style, the way she cleverly combined simple basics. The contents of her handbag entirely reflected her classic and timeless look, with tried and trusted product and old favourites we all know and love, Evian, Carmez and an iPod.

Trend Notes - British Heritage

Referencing wealthy county land owners, country pursuits of the upper classes and traditional rural work wear, the Autumn Winter catwalks heavily featured an array of pieces inspired by British heritage.

In a stroke of patriotism this trend was executed particularly well by the classic British brands who were able to reference and rejig their own archives. A handful of younger London designers also gave their own, slightly more obscure and playful interpretation of countryside attire.

Each toyed with the idea of age, location and class, authentically utilising functional fabrics and reworking practical classics into modern, wearable pieces with a very urban edge.

Scroll above to shop

Emma Hill, was inspired by regal country pursuits and old county families at Mulberry, with long, slouchy silhouettes accented by the occasional flash of finery. Hedgerows and feather prints featured on lean silk shapes, exaggerated cord and giant checked scarves were mixed with nonchalantly thrown on knit wear, heavy parkers and a decadent dash of gold lame evocative of eccentric landed gentry.

While the understated Lady of the Manor, insistent on driving an old ford estate and wearing holey cashmere bought in the 80's, dug out Granny's jewels, the frumpy farmers wife got laquered with a city gloss at Daks. Shirts and knitwear were fine and slick while rural checks were blown up to oversize or asymetrically quilted to create a voluminous skirt cinched at the waist cutting a polished and pretty figure.

Tweed, used for centuries to create informal outerwear for country pursuits was used this season to create contrast throughout many collections; tailored into modern shapes or combined with futuristic fabrics. No one did this more than Joanna Sykes for her first collection at Aquascutum. Heavily focusing on outerwear she played with contrasts and proportion, taking the sport element to collide neoprene and patent leather with classic shearling and English tweeds. Young designer J.W. Anderson also used tweed in contrast, combining prissy paisley print sleeves with heavy tweed bodies. Even the notoriously mischievous House of Holland used this usually stayed fabric. He used prim Harris tweed, woven with threads of neon, to create sexy, punky pieces.

Continuing the punk aesthetic In what we now to be her last collection for Pringle, Claire Waight Keller, literally tore up pieces from the Pringle archive, creating a collage of dynamic knits with further dimension added by leather and yet more tweed. Erdem printed his tweeds on silk, of course, in a riot of blues dispersing and dissolving into moth eaten patches featuring on elegant and demure midi dresses.

This trend isn't about slick lines and neat tailoring, but long fluid shapes, big chunky knits, functional shapes and fabrics in muted colours, faded chintzy patterns and eccentric dashes of sparkle. It's is haphazard, slouchy, warm, practical and comfortable!

Scroll above to shop

Andrea Krill

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

While the weather is so changeable we loved Andrea's styled up summer fur, worn over a simple white fur and brightened up with shocking red jeans! Scroll to see what she was carrying!

Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty

The late fashion marvel, Alexander McQueen, recently had his life and work immortalised in an exhibition at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, that ended last week after attracting over 600,000 visitors.

Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty was a celebration of McQueen's colossal contribution to fashion, exploring his expression of, not just design, but identity, culture and politics. Curated were one hundred ensembles and seventy accessories from McQueen's prolific nineteen year career, drawn primarily from the Alexander McQueen archive held in London.

That given, and the fact McQueen has become something of a British national treasure, who drew so much of his inspiration from the tradition and spirit of this country, it seems at odds not to be moving the exhibition to his home city, London, where he also trained and worked.

While The Met is a suitably distinguished and esteemed venue for the exhibition, London is not without an equally as fitting location, the V&A have already keenly expressed their desire to host it. Currently there are no concrete plans for the exhibition to reside here in the future. Fashion supremo, Melanie Rickey aka Fashion Editor at Large, describes this as a "scandal" and has begun a petition to bring the McQueen exhibition home. I agree and it's a tragedy that so many of us may never get to see this wonderful celebration of such a remarkable man and so it is with this sentiment and wishful thinking I fully pledge my support to Rickey's campaign!

Please help support by signing your name here and get this trending on twitter, using the hash tag #BringMcQueenExhitibitionHome.

Shop pieces from Alexander McQueen A/W11 Collection on Matches

www.metmeuseum.org
www.vam.ac.uk
www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk

Magda Pniewsha

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

Magda's big stripes and big smile caught our eye. Armed with a lint roller, lipstick and bronzing palette she seemed hot to trot!

The Jazz Shoe

While we've long had a love affair with the chic and practical Ballet pump, this seasons favoured flat takes inspiration from another dancing style, Jazz!

A kind of Brogue and Ballet pump hybird, the Jazz shoe strikes just the right chord between feminine polish and androgynous styling.

Embellished, decorated and adorned, here's my top 3 pick of the dancing shoe du jour.

From left to right

The original purveyor of dance shoes for the most prolific jazz and ballet dancers, Bloch now create fashionable footwear with a strong focus on comfort and wearability. This simple black pair are toughened with mini studs.
Studded black leather - Bloch at Net A Porter, £170 - www.net-a-porter.com

Christian Louboutin's glittery Jazz shoe proves that flats can be just as glamorous as heels!
Glitter Fred Shoe - Christian Louboutin, £380 - www.christianlouboutin.com

Shop other pieces from the Christian Louboutin collection on Net A Porter

In a contrast of tonal textures, ruby red suede mixes with lip popping patent, to create a minimal and modern take on a pair of gangster spats.
Red jazz shoes - Pointer at The Three Threads, £109 -
www.thethreethreads.com

Victoria Andregervas

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

Textured monochrome colour blocking with this Commes des Garcon net skirt and vintage leather jacekt. Victoria bikes into her job at Dover Street Market so her bag is a cute, compact and practical Easpak rucksack. Inside she carries two phones and a notepad, but what we really wanted to know is...did she just shake her tic tacs at us?

The Loewe Flamenco

Soft buttery nappa leather meets bright popping colour as the Loewe Flamenco bag is re-released since it's original conception in 1984. The Spanish leather label's Creative Director, Stuart, Vevers, has updated the Flamenco with a new strap and oversized tassles as well as modernising and perfecting the proportions.

Spirited, vivacious and playful the bag's very essence is emulated by model Mariacarla Boscono, choosen to feature in the Autumn Winter campaign. The strong, sensual and passionate Mariacarla was photographed by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott in the iconically Spanish, Ritz Hotel in Madrid. The result is a serious of intimate images that read like stills from a glamorous movie, heavily featuring the redesigned Flamenco. Speaking of the campaign Stuart Vevers explains ‘We chose not to crop in on the shots, we wanted to leave in background details like the bedside lamps to give a sense of place and character. We didn’t want that austere distance you sometimes see in fashion photography – we were looking for something more authentic, a more human level of contact. It gives the imagery a softness of touch that resonates with the tactile nature of Loewe leather.’

Watch the behind the scenes

Prices from £1,295, available from Harrods

www.loewe.com
www.harrods.com

Ellen Danes

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

We loved model Ellen's fresh, angelic face that contrasting so well with her tough leather jacket and skirt and band t shirt. She opened up her slouchy black leather Michael Kors hand bag and pulled out her essentials, lip stain, bus pass and plasters.

Vintage at Southbank

29 - 31 July 2011 - The Southbank Centre

3 daily revue shows, 150 DJ's, 1 vintage market place, 1 high street pop up and 7 decades of British cool.

Wayne and Gerardine Hemingway bring their award-winning Vintage to the Southbank Centre in celebration of the music, dance, fashion, food, art, design and film that spans the 1920's to the 1980's.

The Royal Festival Hall will be transformed into a playground of sensual delight, a big dressing-up box and a collector’s dream. Walk around the perceived festival with co founder Wayne Hemmingway

Highlights include catwalk shows hosted by Jo Wood and Pearl and Daisy Lowe; a vintage marketplace of hand picked couture labels, prêt a porter, homewares, records and other artefacts; a pop-up ‘High Street’, brimming with renowned brands from the past and present and DJ sets from Norman Jay and club kid legend Princess Julia.

For the full line up and information about each decade click here or to buy tickets click here.

www.vintagebyhemmingway.co.uk
www.southbankcentre.co.uk

The Trend Transcenders

MAKE UP Oh So Chloe using Dior
HAIR James Langan using Paul Mitchel
MODEL Vaar at Union

Port Eliot Festival

21st - 24th July 2011

It may be that I have an over romantic vision surrounding my first trip to Port Eliot this weekend. In my head there's not a plastic blue porta loo to be seen. In reality, I'm pretty sure this is a neccesity for any festival, even such a refined one. Damn!

What I am guaranteed though, is to be transported to a wold of magic and enchantment in the grounds of the beautiful Port Eliot estate in a hidden corner of Cornwall.

An ariel view of the site

Now in its ninth year, the Port Eliot Festival takes place every July, with a capacity of only 5000. A magical combination of books, food, music, art, comedy, fashion, films, flowers, photography, wildlife and water.

Join in the wholesome fun with a fantastical fusion and celebration of imagination, laughter, exploration, eccentricity, intelligence and fabulousness. Highlights include the Paradiso Cinema curated by legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese; John Cooper Clarke delivering a limerick master class; a Flower Show, curated by acclaimed resident production designer of Ballet Rambert, Michael Howells, assisted by the Women’s Institute and with judges including milliner Stephen Jones and gardener Dan Pearson; Caitlin Moran; The Jim Jones Revue; Jon Ronson; Bellowhead; Peep Show co-creators and Four Lions writers Sam Bain and Jesse Armstrong; Simon Garfield; Annie Nightingale; Edmund De Waal; AC Grayling; Hanif Kureishi; Sir Peter Blake’s Art Bus; the Caught By The River stage featuring British Sea Power, Andrew Weatherall, The Rockingbirds, Caitlin Rose and The Secret Sisters, DJ sets by Geoff Travis, conversations on aquatic music, endangered birds, rock literature and the underground music press; wild swimming in the river Lynher estuary; children’s events by Rogue Theatre; and The Poetry Takeaway, which will see leading poets creating individual poems to order.

Come along! Click here to buy tickets.

www.porteliotfestival.com

AV Live

22nd July 2011 - Ongoing

I had an exciting meeting the other day, one of those elaborate and eccentric brain storming sessions that take no consideration of budget, logistics or feasibility but that leaves you feeling motivated and exhilarated. The meeting was with multimedia collective Anomalous Visuals about creating a moving images fashion series for Milk. Pairing together audio and visuals, Anomalous Visuals seamlessly fuse these elements into unified and dynamic films and have also been responsible for curating Flash // Focus // Record and Noughtie Nightlife

The collective is celebrating their first year with, AV Live, a summer season of sensory adventures and immersive evenings. Short films are created with CGI, illustration, graphic design, abstract patterns and anomalous visuals, woven into intelligent and progressive disco, house, techno and bass culture beats.

I'm thrilled to partner with Anomalous Visuals on unique and directional content to take breath away. In the mean time, AV Live is set to be an interesting, fully immersive overwhelming cinematic and dance experience. Not one to miss.

AV LIve begins at The City and Arts Music Project in Shoreditch, London, on 22nd July. Click here for more information and the future line up.

www.anomalousvisuals.co.uk
www.thecamplondon.com

Laura Scoffin

Laura was doing the robot to Santigold when we stopped her to ask what she was carrying in the pockets of her APC parka, fitting given the little robot man we found on her possession amongst the lip balm and Nars blusher!

Olivia Bergin

We loved Olivia's practical parka and blue jeans, simple elegance cheered up with an Alice Temperley Scarf. She opened up her accordion Topshop bag to share her festival essentials, a sock puppet (in case her feet got wet, not for an impromptu Punch and Judy show, Aspinal coin purse and Marc by Marc Jacobs cute heart mirror.

Iman Pasha

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

We stopped Iman because of her glamorous mix of designer decadance and comfortable ease. We then found out she makes a career of her fashion style as a consultant for Boutique 1. and it all began to make sense! Her knitted Jaeger cape over a silky slip with J Brand jeans and Salvatore Ferragamo pumps felt casual and laid back but polished and effortlessly glossy.

Inside her gorgeous Celine tote we found humour and beauty which gave us a true insight into Iman's character.

Clutching at Bags

The clutchbag is evolving. Set aside your tote and embrace effortless accessorising with the wristlet. No longer the look at me accessory of before; the clutch has become more subtle, almost incidental. Zip away all you necessaries in these conveniently sized wrist strap pouches, great to pop inside a beach bag so your valuables don't get lost in the sand!

From left to right

Zip wallet. Neon. Is there anything he doesn't get right? Christopher Kane can do no wrong!
Patent leather laser-cut clutch - Christopher Kane at Net A Porter £295 -
www.net-a-porter.com

Bracelet meets clutch in a truly decorative and pracitcal embellishment to a simply chic bag.
Black leather clutch - Chloe at Net A Porter £515 - www.net-a-porter.com

A timeless design that's been around for years but it's somehow still so fresh, available in an array of colours.
Patent leather and suede clutch - Miu Miu at Net A Porter -
www.net-a-porter.com

Harry Potter 7

Fan or not you can't fail to have become aware of the phenomena that is Harry Potter! Gripping the world for over 15 years since J.K Rowling's first novel and 9 years since the first film, the movie series now concludes in an epic finale. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 has it's nationwide release on Friday 15th July.

I was lucky enough to attend a private screening nearly a full week before it's release and can confirm this film will not disappoint! Hitting just the right sentimental chord the film is filled with elation, terror, joy, sadness, laughter, fear and humour as Harry Potter meets his nemesis Lord Voldermort one last time.

Watch the trailer.

Click here to book tickets to watch the grand finale in 3D at the Odeon.

Amanda Andreason

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

Student Andrea looked ice cool with her vintage stone wash jeans, white Zara blazer, white Filippa K shirt, pale complexion and bleach blonde bob. She really stood out on the grey day and we loved her truly Scandinavian style.

Carrying a simple canvas bag given at a gallery opening Andrea had some great basic essentials, compact, gum and phone.

A Short Story

From boyfriend to micro mini cut-offs or sleek tailoring, shorts have become one the great wardrobe building blocks. Though not the easiest of separates, summer’s love affair with shorts continues into next season.

With multiple styles, colours and fabrics to pick from, here are our top three tried and tested recommendations.

From left to right

These Kelly Bergin leather shorts. in pale elephant grey are sure to make a statement.
Grey leather shorts - Kelly Bergin at Net A Porter £365 -
www.net-a-porter.com

Both a festival and beach essential, low key denim cut-offs are one of summer’s most effortless looks. The slightly oversized fit and faded wash of these MiHs further adds to the relaxed vibe.
Miami ridge-denim cut-off shorts - MiH at Net A Porter £135 -
www.net-a-porter.com

With clean, loose lines, a simple shape and turn-up detail, this Diane von Furstenberg pair is a classic, working as a wonderful pencil skirt alternative.
Black wool shorts - Diane von Furstenberg at Matches £222 -www.matchesfashion.co.uk

Glamours of the Gods

7 July - 23 October 2011, National Portrait Gallery, Porter Gallery

Forget Linsey Lohan's house arrest and Paris Hilton's pant flashing antics, Glamours of the Gods, reminds us of the class, style, elegance and grace of the true Hollywood stars while exploring the importance of photography in their ascent to fame and longstanding stature.

The exhibition spans 40 years of Hollywood history featuring over 60 vintage prints of stars such as Clark Gable, Marlene Dietrich, James Dean, Marlon Brando, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Collins and Marilyn Monroe, captured by nearly 40 of the era's greatest photographers.

Before the intense prying eyes of the paparazzi, photographs distributed by studios were the only vehicle of connection between stars and fans. The portraits they released to the public and press depicted the actors as glamorous and inaccessible, imbuing them with mystique, not the speculation and gossip of the present day!

Alla Brune

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

Perfectly poised and perfectly polished, Restaurant Manager Alla, possesed a simple elegance with beautiffuly tailored staples. Her Zara jeans and Hermes belt provide a long lean silhouette smartened with a Massimo Dutti blazer and made sporty and casual with a Caroline Herrera polo T.

Her brilliant bright red manicure beautifully accessoriesed her coveted Bottega Veneta tote which she opened up to share her beauty secrets and favourite camera.

Masters of Style

1st July - 14th August, Somerset House, Embankment Galleries

Last night Somerset House celebrated their latest exhibition, Masters of Style; Celebrating the Stories Behind Italian Fashion, with an evening hosted by legendary fashion writer, Colin McDowell.

Held in association with Peroni Nastro Azzurro and coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy, the imagery installation is an homage to six globally renowned Italian fashion houses. Featuring advertising campaigns from the archives of Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Ferragamo, Gucci, Missoni and Prada expect to see defining moments of each labels history.

Despite the exhibition spanning decades the creative visuals are immediately recognisable as belonging to a particular brand, communicating instantly their core brand thread while at the time they were poised to convey the feeling of the moment. Beginning with Gucci with a focus on strong women surrounded by besotted males, to Armani with slick androgynous models lacquered with stark futuristic gloss, to D&G which combines Italian polish with Milanese tradition, moving on to the kooky but sexy Prada and finally Missoni with their wholesome focus on family.

There have been rumblings of disappointment about the absence of clothes, however clothes on hanger or mannequin speak little volume compared to the creatively conceived, carefully planned and impeccably executed fashion campaigns.

For more information click here.

www.somersethouse.org.uk

Le Pills Pliage

A bag of pills this large would normally get you arrested! This Longchamp weekend bag won't even raise the alarm with the fashion police as the classic Longchamp Le Pliage is transformed with riotously colourful concotion of pills and cocktail of drugs.

The latest in a longstanding collaboration with unconventional American designer Jeremy Scott, Le Pill Pliage features the usual design classics with an extra Scottesque punch.

A practical statement that's both frivolous and functional, there is no dosage to exceed on this pill printed pilage bag. Roomy enough for a weekend away or just filled with the daily essentials; use everyday or as prescribed.

The Jeremy Scott for Longchamp bag is available from Selfridges priced at £190. Click here to buy.

www.longchamp.com
www.jeremyscott.com
www.selfridges.co.uk

Ricci Dina

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

It was the blush tone Chanel handbag that first caught our eye, that teamed with the vintage military hat and long red locks. Student Ricci, added movement, colour and pattern to a utilitarian jacket by Ralph Lauren with a bright Roberto Cavalli scarf and pink encased Mac.

We found more treasures inside the delicious Chanel, a Balenciaga coin purse and Mulberry key ring.

FOCUS // FLASH // RECORD

Thursday 23 June – Thursday 7 July 2011 at The City Arts & Music Project (CAMP)

For those fully immersed in the fashion led club scene of East London in the noughties, nights went by in an hedonistic blur and a debauched, fun filled haze.

FOCUS // FLASH // RECORD is a retrospective exhibition of snapshots that documents these extraordinary underground club nights and captures the fashion focused 'club kids'; reminding those part of the scene of the carnage and allowing those who weren't an insight into the extreme expressive freedom.

Carefully selected from the archives of Antony Price, with additional images from the Noughtie Nightlife project, FOCUS // FLASH // RECORD captures the spirit of this night life era, a scene integral to the DNA of many designers and creatives now at the forefront of our culture and immersing us in their visual landscape.

www.anomalousvisuals.co.uk
www.thecamplondon.com
www.pigeonsandpeacocks.com/noughtienightlife

Sado

Designer, Carlotta Gherzi’s adolescence was spent in the Russian Royal Ballet School, resulting in an adoration of the legendary Ballet Russes and providing the inspiration for her label, Sado. Simple yet directional, sumptuous but ultimately wearable, Sado is quickly becoming one of the stand out names on the London Fashion Week line-up.

Influenced by the quick changes necessitated by the ballet dancer’s stage costumes, Sado also draws inspirtaion from Gherzi's observation of revolutionary artists such as Dali and Matisse who created one of a kind stage costumes for the Ballet Russes.

Graphical and Art Deco prints form the designers signature, splashed on luxurious materials such as silk, sheepskin and the softest nappa leather. Sado’s trademark 1920’s twirl pattern is re-worked each season, SS11 showcases a marbled, under-the-sea motif as pebbles and abstract fish feature on flattering fluid t-shirts and bias cut maxi dresses.

Alongside statement prints sit dramatic black evening gowns, summers key colours, pink, orange and white and cut out swimsuits so beautifully executed you’d happily accept the resulting odd tan lines!

www.sadofashion.com

Fast Forward for Suzanne Edwards

Thursday 16th June 2011

If you've got plans on Thursday I suggest you revise them!

Suzanne Edwards, was a keen and active 23 year old, but after falling from a roof terrace in Morocco, breaking her spine and extensively damaging her spinal chord, is now expected to spend the rest of her life in a wheel chair.

To raise money for her little sister Suzanne, and supporting spinal charity Aspire, stylist Pip Edwards, is hosting Fast Forward; a mighty musical extravaganza at Shoreditch club Cargo, featuring The Correspondents and other guests.

If your world were to cave and take a radical turn in an unwanted direction it might seem easiest to admit defeat and hide away but Suzanne has shown such strength of character, tackling her paralysis from just above the waist down with admirable tenacity and inspirational courage.

While the government are able to support her there are a multitude of costs not covered that are integral to helping Suzanne adapt to her new way of life, most notably a light wheelchair for easy mobility. Let's celebrate Suzanne's bravery and raise funds to help her continue life in as normal a way as possible with fun, music and dancing!

Click here to visit Cargo's website for more information.

Click here to buy tickets.

If you're unable to make the event but would like to help, Suzanne is also fundraising for Aspire here.

www.justgiving.com/suzanne-edwards
www.aspire.org.uk
www.cargo-london.com

Emma Mitchell

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

Emma looked beautifully proffesional, she seemed to nail dressing for the office without sacrificing any of her individual style. Her tonal mango skirt, topshop T and Sweedish Hasbeen for Gap shoes are pulled together perfectly with dark denim and a large black leather tote. Inside Emma carry her Kindle, keys and water everywhere with her.

Danni Zahn

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

It's lovely to see the piece of great UK designer being worn so effortlessly, playfully and casually!

J Brand jeans, Lanvin pumps and a Richmond leather jacket anchor the statement Christopher Kane piece. Her slouchy leather hand bag continued to list a designer who's who as did the contents, Miu Miu key purse, Hermes purse, Chanel specs.

Kate Dawson

PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT Luke Freeman

We love the beaming smile and crazy blonde curls of student Kate Dawson. Her Topshop jeans, stripped shirt and espadrilles with feather earring from Forever 21 make her look like a modern, summery sloane holidaying on the French riviera.

While we thought a chilled glass of Rose on the deck of a yacht would be a more fitting accessory, Kates lovely vintage Mulberryesque bag, a charity shop find, was filled with other gems. Chocolate bronzer by Bourgois (well if you don't want to eat it then why not smear it all over your face!?), Rose Vaseline and Blackberry mobile.

Sketches for Regency Living by Pablo Bronstein

9 June 2011 - 25 September 2011

Drawing on London's Regency history and reflecting the design of the ICA building, Nash House, Pablo Bronstein, uses a variety of media to explore his interest in architecture in context of the ICA.

Architecture and dance are two disciplines not commonly associated, a surprising combination, but as Bronstein literally takes over the ICA the two mediums combine seamlessly. His ink and gouache sketches are enhanced by live performance and choreographed movement to utilise the entire space.

Existing architecture is embellished with forms that reference the Regency period and incorporate various decorative schemes. Look out for the the two daily choreographed dance performances, with costumes designed by fashion designer Mary Katrantzou.

His work demonstrates an affinity for how architecture and sculpture intervene in personal identity and inform our movements and social mores.

Sketches for Regency Living Is supported by a full line up of interactive events, dance and art performances, talks and tours, music and films visit the ICA webstie for more information.

www.ica.org.uk

Alistair Guy, On His Knees

1st June - 14th June 2011

Photographer Alistair Guy got his knees to propose an engagement of a different kind. Approaching a carefully curated selection of fashions most discerning females, including Erin O'Connor, Caryn Fanklin and Yasmin Sewell, Guy asked to photograph them in the intimacy of their work, home or wardrobe using his signature reportage style.

Photographed while 'on his knees' looking up at his subjects, the low view point gives an interesting perspective that expresses and contextualises his admiration for these women. Following perfectly from previous exhibitions, Behind the Seams and Shot from Above which featured other heros of the fashion industry.

Following a tea infused private view with the sounds of tinkling jazz and guests including Harold TIlman and Sir Stuart Rose, as well as his subjects, the images will now be on display in the womenswear Start Boutique in Shoreditch until 14th June

www.start-london.com
www.alistairguy.com

Alistair has collaborated with Milk on a new visual section called Stop + Search, coming soon. Click here to sign up for the Milk newsletter and be the first to know when this goes live.

Very Important Plectrums

29th May - 19th June 2011

A plectrum may be small in size but it's mighty in stature, for any music lover bagging the piece of plastic their favourite musician uses to strum their guitar is an iconic piece of memorabilia to be treasured.

In support of unique charity Trekstock, Ben Sherman are auctioning these seemingly insignificant pieces of plastic from the guitarists of bands such as the Stereophonics, Noah & the Whale and the Rolling Stones or individuals like Paul Weller and charity patron, Mark Ronson, with all funds going to the cause.

Trekstock is a unique charity providing support to young people with cancer through close work with fashion and music personalities to raise funds and awareness. These collaborative efforts with the stars of music and fashion fund the lifesaving research for the specific types of cancer that affect this age group. They work with Cancer Research UK to achieve a wish of helping prevent, diagnose, treat, and ultimately beat cancer.

Click here to take a look at the online auction.

http://brand.bensherman.com
http://trekstock.com

Sir Michael Parkinson Portrait

27th May - 30 November 2011

There's always been 'something' about Sir Michael Parkinson, or Parky as he is affectionately known; he metled the hearts of a million housewives and loosened the lips of the most astute celebrities, politicians and sports personalities. His kind but confrontational gaze, his probing but affectionately delivered questions and strong, unbowing silence have made his interview technique the method of legends.

Now the strong kind features of journalist, author and broadcaster, Sir Michael Parkinson, have been perfectly capturered in a vivid painting commissioned by the National Portrait Gallery. Jonathan Yeo, one of Britain's best-known portrait painters created the portrait in oil on canvas executed from life over five sittings in the artist’s London studio. The intimacy of Yeo’s close-cropped composition gives a sense of how it might feel to be faced by Sir Michael as one of his interview subjects, a privilege usually reserved for the famous.

Sir Michael Parkinson by Jonathan Yeo is on display from 27 May 2011 at the National Portrait Gallery's Contemporary Collections in the Lerner Galleries, Room 41.

www.npg.org.uk

Laurence Dacade collaborates with Natalie Rich Fernandez

If anyone ever told you that shoes weren't an art form I suggest you buy a pair of these and bonk them over the head with one of their hard wooden soles!

Emulating a 70's work of art, the platform soles of Parisian luxury accessories designer, Laurence Dacade's have been laboriously and lovingly hand painted by artist, Natalie Rich-Fernandez.

A capsule collection of just 12 unique pairs of shoes available only at Browns combines the synergy of sculpture, painting, wearability and fashion. Rich-Fernandez, who has also worked with Herme's on a scarf series, uses geometrical forms and psychedelic patterns inspired by light and vibrations. These are then hand painted in complex undulating colours, rising from a tint towards light or dark picking out the colour of the suede, leather or satin upper.

Scroll the images above to see pieces from the collection and sketches from the design process exclusive to Milk.

Dacade, who trained at the AFPIC school to master the technical aspects of designing shoes, believes that it is "The sensualism of a sculpture and the desire to possess it" that make her shoes special. "Shoes like jewellery or sculpture are very sensual objects. My goal is to make shoes for Cinderella, but sexy with a touch of the French."

With only 12 pairs ranging from size 37 - 41 available only at Browns, the shoes choose you, better than finding a prince if your colour choice matches your size, no ugly sisters allowed!

www.brownsfashion.com
www.laurence-dacade.com
http://natalie.rich.free.fr

Teapots to Tapestries

6th May – 29th July 2011

There's something so British and outrageously decadent about a long, leisurely afternoon tea. Time spent enjoying something so refined is surely symbolic and evocative of the rest of the day, if you have time to indulge in afternoon tea, you're probably not racing from meeting to meeting or worrying about picking kids up from school and preparing dinner, but instead are able to enjoy the ritual and savour the taste.

If time is on your side then the Teapots to Tapestries exhibition on the first floor of Fortnum and Mason is the perfect desert to follow tea at one of the stores 5 restaurants, (my favourite is the St James). Highlighting and championing traditional manufacturing skills, the exhibition showcases over 2,000 hand crafted items, including tea pots amongst other objects, with a focus on perfection rather than speed or quantity.

Each piece displayed is unique and helps to preserve ancient skills that would otherwise disappear forever.

All pieces on display are available to buy from £25, and a series of events run alongside the exhibiton with chances to meet these artisanal craftsmen, for more information click here.

Take a look at Afternoon Tea at Fortnum and Mason

Breath the Heat, Feel the Air

HAIR David Wadlow
MAKE UP Joella Butler using Topshop Makeup
MODEL Marin at Select

KSUBI denim

Jeans have long been a style staple, a fail safe option for every eventuality, reinvented slightly every couple of years with different washes, trims and styles to keep us on our toes. This season, in contrast to the also popular indigo wash flare, the skinny jean is still hot but the paint box has been opened to make denim pop in mouth watering, high octane colours.

No one has worked this trend better than cult Australian label Ksubi, credited with creating the coloured denim trend back in 2004. A short film, directed by Daniel Askill, celebrates the relaunch.

Kolors is a fume-fuelled slow motion battle between three colour-clad models and a trio of ‘80s muscle cars. Vivid smoke fuses with the spectral denim range and contrasts with the barren industrial wasteland and operatic sound track.

Not only is the video a visual spectacle but as the girls soar about the rumbling Ford's the superior stretch, fit and shape of the Ksubi jeans is clear.

Ksubi maximalised color dyes are available exclusively at Selfridges and Net a Porter

Click here to shop.

Watch another film by David Askill, created for his brother, jewellery designer and sculptor, Jordan Askill

www.ksubi.com
www.selfridges.com
www.net-a-porter.com

Christian Louboutin Hand Painted Snakeskin Pigalle

Christian Louboutin's timelessly elegant Pigalle pump in classic snakeskin gets a modern, vibrant and brightly coloured update with hand-painted graffiti.

Exotic python skin provides a diverse and dynamic canvas for lustrous flashes of turquoise, magenta and yellow, painted individually and independently with primitive, freehand designs, meaning no two are the same. Inspired by the work of post-impressionist artist Henri Rousseau, the naive tribal markings are inspired by his depictions of colonial Africa and the jungle.

Henri Rousseau's 'Two Monkeys in the Jungle and The Waterfall'

If these shoes could embody one thing it would be Crocodile Dundee at the Rio carnival in drag. They're a pungent and fruity cocktail of authenticity, hedonism, spirit and colour tied together with the trademark glossy red sole!

Staying ever true to his goal, to 'make shoes that are like jewels,' Christian Louboutin has done it again with a wearable piece of art, playfully unique and with effortless style and grace.

The hand painted snakeskin Pigalle, £995 is sold exclusively at the Mount Street Christian Louboutin boutique, 0207 491 0033.

Shop the Christian Louboutin collection at Net a Porter

www.christianlouboutin.com
www.net-a-porter.com
www.henrirousseau.org

Ai Weiwei

12 May - 26 June 2011 - Somerset House
13 May - 16 July 2011 - The Lisson Gallery

The opening of Ai Wei Wei’s latest exhibition, a courageous and outspoken artist and contemporary sculptor, conincides poignantly with his conspicuous absence. Since his controversial arrest on the 3rd of April at Beijing airport nothing has been heard of Ai Wei Wei, who has been denied contact with his lawyer and family members.

Admist the growing concern for his safety two exhibitions of his work are unveiled this week as the Tate Modern finishes his interactive display of Sunflower Seeds in the Turbine Hall. Somerset House today begins a showcase of his Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads in its courtyard and the Lisson Gallery also begins to exhibit some of his key works created over the past six years from Friday 13th May.Ai Weiwei at The Lisson Gallery

The historic grounds and vast space of Somerset House play host to an extraordinary collection of bronze animal heads created by Ai Weiwei mirroring his fascination with Chinese history, art and Zodiac signs. He wanted to create an accessible installation which would attract a large audience, this will no doubt be enhanced further still by the controversy surrounding his arrest and consequential disappearance.

These pieces are enormous reinterpretations of the symbolic Chinese zodiac signs traditionally used to decorate an imperial retreat in Beijing, the Fountain Clock of Yuaaming Yuan (or the Garden of Perfect Brightness). Just as star signs in astrology play a part in Western culture the zodiac signs within astrology play an important part in Eastern culture where the belief is that everyone is assigned a zodiac sign at birth and this effects their personality and even destiny.

As well as a sculpture Ai Weiwei is also active in architecture; curating, photography, film, and social and cultural criticism as well as openly and objectively speaking of his dissatisfaction of governmental policies. It is this freedom of speech, not tolerated by Chinese government, that has perhaps led directly to his arrest. The American and European Art circles have petitioned for his release and anxiously hope for his return.

Support Ai Weiwei and sign a petition campaigning for his release

Read about Anish Kapoor’s call to the art world to unite against ‘barbaric' China

www.somersethouse.org.uk
www.lissongallery.com

Deer Chicago

10 May 2011

Camden pub and gig venue, The Dublin Castle, regularly cultivates new musical talent, tonight playing host to Oxford band and friends of Milk, Deer Chicago.

With their post rock, progressive indie music, the 3-piece band will perform on the stage previously graced by the likes of Blur, Travis and The Artic Monkeys.

The sound of Deer Chicago isn’t easy to categorise, with repetitive guitar riffs, reflective vocals and xylophone notes, there's something to appeal to most. They sit somewhere between the soft and ambient sounds of M83, the beautiful atmospheric soundscapes of Sigur Ros, the epic climaxes of Placebo and catchy lyrics of Death Cab for Cutie.

Check out their myspace

www.myspace.com/deerchicago
www.thedublincastle.com/

Bridget Riley: Paintings and Related Work

24 November 2010 – 22 May 2011

With a career that spans nearly six decades, Bridget Riley is a pinnacle figure in the British Fine Art scene, she’s developed a unique style and leads the way in the sub-genre, Op Art.

The Sunley Room at the National Portrait Gallery has been transformed with her hand painted work. Riley works with such mathematical precision and accuracy her pieces could be mistaken for computer generated images, with a movement and diversity unique only to Op Art.

Created especially for the longest wall in the Sunley Room and painted directly onto the wall, ‘Composition with Circles 7’ is a complex series of overlapping circles enveloping the viewers visual field. This, she likens to viewing a landscape ‘the eye can travel over the surface in a way parallel to the way it moves over nature. It should feel caressed and soothed, experience frictions and ruptures, glide and drift’.

As a student Riley regularly referred to classic works by the Old Masters such as Raphael held by The National Gallery, extracting information on their use of line, composition and colour. These pieces, some dating back to the 15th century remain relevant and continue to inspire and at her request have been included within the exhibition.

A Riley painting is watched rather than viewed, prepare to be overwhelmed by the magnitude and power her creations hold.

Click here for more information.

www.nationalportraitgallery.org.uk

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Mimosa

Twice a year Chanel creates a unique and innovative nail colour that sets the tone of the season and always becomes our favourite shade.

For spring summer it is Mimosa, named after the plant that blooms with puffs of bright yellow flowers dangling from the silvery branches and inspired by the warmth and sunlight of the French Riviera. Eternally feminine, carefree and cheery, yellow gold painted nails will look luminous and radiant.

This rich yellow shade currently streaks across the English countryside, fields of Oilseed Rape flourish with yellow flowers, and was also the colour chosen by the Queen to wear to the recent royal wedding, the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton. She wore a crepe wool dress, tailored coat and hat all created by Angela Kelly and in a similar joyful primrose yellow, seen here perfectly complimented by the bishop's cloak (clearly he too is in the know.)

Le Vernis Nail Colour in Mimosa, £17.50, goes on sale on Friday 6th May, available exclusively at Selfridges (appropriate given their affiliation with yellow) until nationwide release on 20th May. In the mean time click here to shop other Chanel nail varnish colours.

Now if only we could get our newly manicured mitts on the Queens broach, Mary’s True Lovers Knot, from the royal collection, a priceless family heirloom.

www.chanel.com
ww.selfridges.com

The Royal Wedding

The ceremony begins tomorrow at Westminster Abbey at 11:00 am.

To catch a last glimpse of Kate as a single woman then look out for her as she travels by car to the marriage at Westminster Abbey. Leaving the Goring Hotel at 10:51 she will be driven along the Mall to the Horse Guards Parade and then Whitehall, finally arriving at Parliment Square and the Abbey ready to walk down the isle. This is one bride who probably won't be late!

After an hour long ceremony the newlywed couple will travel back along this route to Buckingham Palace for a reception. They will be accompanied by other members of the royal family as they travel in a procession of horse-drawn carriages taking in some of London's most famous landmarks.

At 1.25pm the Queen will appear with the Bride and Groom on the balcony of Buckingham Palace followed by a flypast by the Royal Air Force and a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight at 1.30pm.

These routes are going to be busy, if you really wanted a front row seat you should have been camping along the procession route since Monday. For those not so intent but feeling equally a celebratory watch the big screens relaying the event set up in Hyde Park, Trafalgar Square and Walthamstow.

www.officialroyalwedding2011.org

Visionäre

April 28th - 30th

As part of the East End Film Festival, pop up cinema outfit Visionäre, presents a 3 day underground experience in celebration of the message of music.

Included are first time UK screenings of music-related documentaries, live musical performances, club nights, visual installations and art shows. Beginning with an exhibition of illustrator and visual artist Victoria Topping, whose work revolves around musical themes with a focus on a childhood obsession with jazz records from her Grandfathers collection. And finishing with live musical performances from Ska, Roots and Reggae artists. Other highlights also include; a voyeuristic view through New York’s lawless Lower East Side in the late 70s/early 80s, a visual journey through London and Jamaican sound system culture, a look at Hip Hop culture transcendin time and countries and a documentary about Notting Hill Carnival’s figure head Norman Jay.

Taking place in venues all across London, visit the website for more details and a full list of programs, Visionäre is sure to be an unforgettable experience for film fans and music aficionados alike.

www.visionare.co.uk
www.eastendfilmfestival.com

Katie Hillier

Forget chocolate Bunnies, I WANT GOLD!

In the year of the rabbit, Katie Hillier's beloved bunnies hopped, skipped and with a twinkle in their eye, reproduced into a more extensive collection, you could say they've been at it like rabbits!

Following her first forray into the world of fine jewellery last year (read about the first collection here) Hillier introduces the new Bunny Love collection.

Expanding on the original paper clip pendants, Hillier has introduced solid gold bunny rabbits with diamond eyes or pave surround. Dancing from the neck, wrist, ear or fingers, these floppy eared friends are much more exciting than any amount of chocolate, even after 40 days without.

Scroll above to see my favourites from the collection. All available from Dover Street Market

The original collection has also evolved into sterling silver pieces with semi precious stones, a little less brutal on the purse, and a new selection of animal doodles and woodland creatures. Watch the latest Hillier animation, featuring them all, below.

Mother of Pearl

Mother of Pearl, the brain child of Maia Norman, former surfer and long term partner of British artist Damian Hirst, cleverly combines luxury, functionality, creativity and playfulness.

What makes this intelligent and directional label so special is the true reflection of Maia's lifestyle; a fusion of art and fashion combined with her love of sport.

Each season Maia collaborates with a carefully choosen and acclaimed artist. An exclusive print, drawn from existing artworks, then becomes the foundation of each fuss free, sport inspired collection. Jim Lambie is the most recent to feature, preceding highly regarded Mother of Pearl alumni, such as Matt Collishaw, Walton Ford and Carsten Holler. His oversized baroque blooms are used across the collection, mixing with richly coloured blocks in luxurious fabrics like silk and leather on sleek, miniamilist and witty shapes. Her choice of pioneering fabrics and techniques create sophisticated laid back silhouettes accentuated by timeless prints.

As well as stockists in key international cities, for a short amount of time Mother of Pearl opens the M.O.P Shop at Other Criteria on New Bond Street

Celebrating the arrival of the spring summer '11 collection and prints from Jim Lambie, the M.O.P shop, is open for business from today after its launch last night. It closes after less than a month, on the 11 May, so hurry!

www.motherofpearl.co.uk
www.othercriteria.com

James Mullinger's School Days

Hilarious, controversial and not for the faint hearted, the well spoken James Mullinger will shock, charm and entertain with his filthy annecdotal observations and obscene real life stories.

Schooldays, James' second full length show following from the critically acclaimed, The Bad Boy of Feminism, is a provocative rendition and autobiographical narrative about being at school in the 1980s. From the miserable horror of primary to the reckless debauchery of boarding school, James shamelessly shares incriminating personal stories with little regard for his reputation. His tales, delivered with such profound, untarnished honesty and uncomprimising frankness are barely believable. Evidence presented in the form of carefully collated teacher's reports, photographs and videos serve to relentlessly prove that even the most outrageous story isn't even slightly embellished let alone totally fabricated!

James Mullinger's Schooldays was described by Time Out as "very funny stuff" and by the Evening Standard as "something of a sensation". With every night a sell out at the Camden Fringe and the Leicester Comedy Festival, the last chance to see this show is not to be missed! Just leave your qualms at home and prepare for some jaw dropping, bottom clenching comedy!

Click here for dates and venues across the UK.

www.jamesmullinger.com

Pierre Hardy for Gap

These elegant and modern Mary Janes are from another collaboration between all American brand, Gap, and renowned French designer, Pierre Hardy. The collection for Spring/Summer 2011 follows the successful debut of Pierre Hardy and Gap Design Editions in Winter of 2007.

Hardy who honed his skills at Chrsitian Dior, Balenciaga and Hermes, translates his unique, sculptural and modernist vision of footwear to echo the soft tailoring and sophisticated summer collection from Gap.

Fresh, spirited and relaxed in neutral tones with a pop of colour, these shoes perfectly emulate Gap's spring collection. Available in store now, priced at £79.95.

www.gap.eu

Chocolate Festival

For those who have given up the sweet stuff for lent there couldn't be a worse time for a festival to celebrate chocolate. However, for this, perhaps we can make an exception!

Returning for the 6th time The Chocolate Festival at the Southbank is a gastronomic celebration and journey of all things chocolate.

Kicking off on Friday 8th April with a talk from Keith Hurdman, Master Chocolatier at Thornton’s and continuing over the weekend with talks and demonstrations from other heavy weights from the chocolate world.

Paul Wayne Gregory will be making caramel and appleton rum chocolates, William Curley is to discuss his Japanese inspired couture chocolates and Damian Allsop will demonstrate how to make a modern meringue and a water ganache (made with water instead of cream).

Master the art of making mousse, truffles, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate and raspberry brownies and virtuous gluten, sugar and dairy free banana and chocolate chip loaf.

Learn about the health benefits, origins, ethics and sustainability of chocolate, recent developments with the cultivation of coco and the maintenance of artisan traditional methods. The authority on chocolate, Seventy Percent, will be sharing their knowledge teaching us how to be a chocolate connoisseur in three easy steps with A Taste of Chocolate.

www.festivalchocolate.co.uk
www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Oxfam Curiosity Shop

Friday 1 - Sunday 10 April 2011

Following the success of last year, Selfridges and Oxfam are once again opening Britain’s biggest charity pop-up shop in the Ultralounge at Selfridges, London.

The now annual 10 day shop previously welcomed over 30,000 customers raising an admirable £250,000. The 2011 Selfridges Curiosity shop is to be Oxfam's biggest yet, contributions include a Kate Moss sequin dress, Natalie Imbruglia's classic Christian Louboutin's and Livia Firth's Nina Skarra dress. Oxfam Global Ambassador, Scarlett Johansson, has also donated a piece which will be included alongside Mulberry and Miu Miu bags, Jimmy Choo shoes and Alice Temperley and Alexander McQueen dresses.

With such covetable pieces donated by A-list stars, fashion editors and models, sought after samples from designers and hand picked vintage pieces from the public donations, the pickings will be rich and be a huge help to continue funding the amazing work Oxfam do.

All the money raised will go to fund Oxfam`s global women’s projects, reaching those struggling with poverty and destitution. Annie Lennox also a Global Oxfam Ambassador, says of the shop "It is a wonderful way of harnessing the ideas, skills and resources of influential women to empower other women and fight poverty. More than two-thirds
of the 1.3 billion people living in extreme poverty are women and girls, and the bleak reality for them is that entrenched attitudes deny them their rights and the chance to escape...we can all do something to make a difference – and we agreed that there was no better way than by pooling our knowledge and creativity to create the ultimate fashion experience, which would raise vital funds for Oxfam’s women’s projects at the same time.”

For those not able to visit there will also be an auction online, see here

www.selfridges.com
www.oxfam.org.uk

Vintage Seekers

For serious vintage lovers, embracing decades gone by is more than just a way to dress, it's a lifestyle. Sourcing original items can be a laborious, time consuming and not always fruitful task. If you like the idea of vintage but are not fully dedicated to hours on ebay, wet mornings at car boots or stuffy auction houses you'll be pleased to hear of new online shop, Vintage Seekers.

Clever seekers, scrupulously collect the finest examples of design, fashion, motoring, memorabilia, watches and wine with an emphasis on items at least 25 years old and no older than 100, sourced from reputable international dealers.

With the mantra ‘desirable, stylish, authentic, often iconic and always original’, Vintage Seekers curates pieces of 20th century design and collectibles, selling them through a beautiful, trust worthy and efficient website. They also shine the spotlight on contemporary design and collectibles, seeking pieces of 'Future VIntage' with enduring appeal that will become a legacy to future generations from the 21st Century.

Items for sale include collector’s quality fashion by Ossie Clark, Hardy Amies, Dior and Biba, a pair of 1951 Senior by Marco Zanusso black leather chairs and a rosewood Sibast Arne Vodder desk, a 1978 Rolex Daytona, an original 1957 Coca Cola machine, original story board artwork for the 1951 production of Alice in Wonderland and Edith Head’s original sketches of Audrey Hepburn’s costumes for the film Sabrina.

Vintage Seekers celebrates the enduring appeal of the most covetable objects of the last century.

http://www.vintageseekers.com/

Dirt: the Filthy Reality of Everyday Life

24 March - 31 August 2011

For those with an OCD problem look away now or if you have a morbid fascination with dirt and the grotesque prepare to be indulged, Dirt: the Filthy Reality of Everyday Life now on at the Wellcome Collection, will appeal to your secret love of the disgusting.

Travelling across centuries and continents to explore our strange and ambivalent relationship with dirt, the exhibition uncovers a rich history of disgust and delight in the grimy truths and dirty secrets of our past.

We live in filthy times, exposure to dirt shapes our metropolitan and rural life, it poses a significant risk to our health but is also vital to our existence. While we may wish to sweep it under the carpet or wash our hands of it, scientists are debating whether our increasing obsession with cleanliness is stripping away our ability to combat infection. Dirt will reveal the fascinating world of filth that remains one of the very last taboos.

Dirt: the Filthy Reality of Everyday Life is part of the DIRT Season from Wellcome Trust. Look out for events at special dirty locations, including Eden Project, Glastonbury and other Summer festivals.

www.wellcomecollection.org

Chanel Cinema

2nd – 30th March 2011

For the next week a giant Chanel fragrance bottle has been installed in the beauty hall in Selfridges, London. Measuring over 5 metres high, 4 metres wide and 2 metres deep the ornate bottle has been adapted into a mini cinema to play the newly launched Chanel Coco Mademoiselle advert featuring Keira Knightley.

There is also exclusive behind the scenes and making of footage, as well as a chance to answer questions about Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel herself, upon which each correct answer a gift will be given!

www.selfridges.com
www.chanel.com

Pioneers of the Downtown Scene New York 1970s

3 March – 22 May 2011

In the 1970's New York City was on the verge of bankruptcy; faced with the disappearance of manufacturing industries, the city was turning into a centre of widespread unemployment and lawlessness.

The bleak city provided a powerful context for the work of performance artist and musician Laurie Anderson, choreographer Trisha Brown and artist Gordon Matta-Clark. Along with other artists they responded by converting derelict buildings into live-work lofts; large open spaces, to make and exhibit their work. These artists sought to distance themselves from the dominant artistic movements of the 1960s, Pop art and Minimalism, in which the object was paramount. Taking art out of the conventional gallery context and performance off the stage, they used the deteriorating city as the setting for their work. Performances took place in the streets, on buildings and in the cavernous artist loft spaces in downtown New York.

The Barbican exhibition is the first major presentation to examine the experimental and daring approaches – from dancing on rooftops to cutting fragments out of abandoned buildings – taken by these three leading figures. The double-height ceiling of the Barbican’s gallery space echoes the large scale of the industrial lofts of SoHo, providing the perfect visual landscape to showcase this rough-and-ready arts scene which developed in downtown Manhattan during the 1970s.

Click here for more information and to view a schedule of daily performances.

Topshop Unique Dress

Topshop Unique is now a firm fixture and favoured highlight of London Fashion Week. With the usual excitement and anticipation, last season crimped haired models were sent down the catwalk, floating on perspex wedges and perfectly nailing the now current 70's trend.

An oversized smock dress sees boho chic and glam rock mix in a psychedelic swirl of smoke printed silk chiffon. Airy light and fluid, details include sheer panels, gold rope piping and a diamante fastening,

Other pieces from the collection tell a tale of mysticism, fantasy and the ethereal cosmos in a palette of hot pinks, neutral nudes, deep purples, and ochre yellows. Silhouettes are lean and long with movement added by boisterous flares on sleeves and at ankles, fringed jackets and layers of printed silk billowing dramatically. With all the glamour of Studio 54 and the casual charm of an elegant hippy pieces are whimsical and feminine but not sickly sweet, they're free spirited, playful and bold.

Dress above priced at £200. Click here to shop the Unique collection.

Yohji Yamamoto, A Retrospective

12 March - 10 July 2011

Influential, inspiring and enigmatic, Yohji Yamamoto is a visionary designer, commercially successful while maintaining his own unique spirit of the avant-garde.

An installation based retrospective of Yamamoto's last 40 years is presented by The Victoria and Albert Museum and designed by Yamamoto's long-time collaborator, scenographer and lighting designer Masao Nihei.

Yohji Yamamoto became internationally renowned in the early 80's for challenging traditional notions of fashion. With a belief that fabric 'is everything' he approaches design in a unique and innovative way. His custom made textiles combine traditional Japanese techniques with other more common weaves and his clothing designs often seem oversized and unfinished. His frequent and skillful use of black, a colour which he describes as 'modest and arrogant at the same time', serve to highlight further his unusual pattern cutting and interesting materials.

Expect to see a showcase of 80 womens, and for the first time, menswear garments displayed on mannequins and accompanied by a mixed-media time line placed throughout the museum amongst the treasures of the V&A. His silhouettes will create a direct dialogue between his work and the different spaces in which they are displayed. Hidden in corners of the ceramic and tapestry collections, on the British Galleries Landing, in the Norfolk House Music Room and looking out onto the John Madejski Garden or from an alcove in the Hintze Sculpture Galleries.

Stretching beyond the walls of the South Kensington Museum the exhibition also includes site specific locations and satellite installations at The Wapping Project..

To book tickets to Yohji Yamamoto at the V&A and for more information on the retrospective click here.

www.vam.ac.uk

The Shop at Bluebird

Much more than a store The Shop at Bluebird is a lifestyle, an hunting ground for the inspired. Travel on a journey around the highly selective, carefully comprised world of fashion, beauty, intelligence and interior. Explore the 10,000 ft industrial space, a garage in the 1930's to revel in its wonder, marvel at hidden gems and indulge in the treasures found.

The design led concept space is an eclectic mix of all that is superior in the ever changing world of design. Belle Robinson, and her team of buyers cleverly pick the best pieces of cutting edge and undiscovered fashion, beauty and interior brands which jostle for attention with old favourites, mixing the quirky with the classic.

Acne jackets sit shoulder to shoulder with those of Isabelle Marrant, Phillip Lim is cuff to collar with Alexander Wang, Marni prints collide with those of Mac by Marc Jacobs and the minimal tailoring of Carven and Raoul meet with the considered chaos of Jonathon Saunders and Peter Jensen. Amongst the clothes rails are fine french candles by Cire Trudon, stark crockery, witty stationary, organic beauty products, elusive international magazine titles, art books and iconic artwork with room left for a state of the art spa offering luxurious massages and facials.

The store reads like a diverse fashion magazine, as the pages evolve each month so to does the calm and neutral space undergoing constant change, the focus slipping easily bettween fashion and interiors. There is a space for brand specific pop ups, previous launches have included an interiors collection by jewellery and accessories designer Lara Bohinc and Timex watches. Currently the pop up position is dedicated to Parisian based collective label, Surface to Air.

The Shop at Bluebird is like a highly glamorous convinience store to the locals and a destination for international style hunters. This is as much about discovery and spending time as it is discreet luxury and spending money.

Equals Live at WOW

11th - 13th March 2011

In honour of and to mark the centenary of International Womens Day, the Southbank Centre kick off a new annual festival to present, recognise and celebrate women.

Running from 11-13th March, WOW - Women of the World Series is set to be a pioneering, groundbreaking festival and an invitation to join a joyous celebration of the formidable strength and inventiveness of women.

A highlight of the festival, amongst the debates, conversations, networking opportunities, presentations and showcases talk is Equals Live.

Female singing sensations VV Brown, Paloma Faith, Kate Nash and charity leader and ambassador for gender equality Annie Lennox, are to take to the stage at the Royal Festival Hall. The Equals Live event on the 11th of March is set to be a unique, enchanting and educational evening with the British artists performing alongside guest speakers and high profile presenters. Passionate songs and powerful words will celebrate the strength and unity of women across generations and continents while also serving to highlight the inequalities still faced by women and inspire people to share their vision of what an equal world could look like.

Equals, is a partnership of 20 leading charities striving for a more equal world and 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day that provides the perfect platform for Equals to launch its continuing goal of gender balance and demand greater equality for women.

See Daniel Craig swap Bond for blonde as part of the Equals campaign.

Book tickets for Equals Live and see the rest of the WOW line up.

www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Hermione de Paula Dress

Flora, goddess of flowers has a sexual and sensual awakening in Hermione de Paula's spring summer collection. Floras burgeoning romances and youthful self reflection is told through de Paula's exquisite prints of amorous gardens that are full of chaste encounters.

Beautiful detailing and exquisite craftsmanship meet with hand drawn illustrations and paintings of wilting blooms embellished with embroidery, lace and macramé, toughened with denim.

A floaty dress is decadently created by layers of opulently screen printed silk chiffon in muted hues with a fluid asymetric hemline. Pale tints of rose pink, muted lilac and mint combined with inky blue, deep crimson and black are evocative of melodrama; the freedom and prison bought by passion.

Romantic, whimsical, free spirited and ethereal de Paula's designs disolve seamlessley into the form creating a delicate vision of femininity with a subtle and demure sense of humour.

The pictured dress is £830 and along with other pieces from the Hermione de Paula spring summer collection, is available from Liberty

Lunch with Zandra Rhodes

10th March 2011

After a light lunch and glass of wine at Fortnum and Mason's fourth floor restaurant, 60's fashion and design icon, Zandra Rhodes, will be in conversation with equally as iconic fashion journalist, Hilary Alexander of The Daily Telegraph.

In her heyday, the bright haired English eccentric, was given reign of a whole floor at British department store to parade her peerless talent. Speaking of her incredible design career, Rhodes, will also give an exciting preview of her exclusive easter and spring packaging for the store. Delicious handmade Fortnum and Mason Easter Eggs are dressed in the finest livery reflecting the iconic designer’s passion for all things English and embodying a mix of old-school glamour and modern chic.

The lunch takes place on the fourth floor at Fortnum and Mason on the 10th March, click here for more information and to book tickets.

www.fortnumandmason.com

Interview Christopher Bailey

In a unique Fashion Week special CNN have been profiling british designers for a fully interactive programme that invites the audience to submit questions online. Christopher Bailey, the creative force behind Burberry, has been chosen by the news channel as todays'Connector of the Day'.

Earlier this week British super brand Burberry, showed the Autumn/Winter 2011 Burberry Prosum collection (pictured). The hottest ticket to have the front row was awash with celebs, socialites and international press. For those unable (uninvitied) to attend the show were able to watch live streaming in 150 countries or from prime vantage point of the large digital screen in Piccadilly Circus, ususally reserved only for Coca Cola. Burberry has stores globally and reports sales of over $2 Billion annually.

For a chance to quiz the creative driving force behind this fashion power house click here to submitt a question to Christopher Bailey. The programme airs at 9pm (GMT) on Connect the World on Wednesday 23rd February.

The Fashion Week special has also previously featured designers Matthew Williamson, Betty Jackson and concludes with model Erin O'Connor.

Erdem Printed Maxi Skirt

There's no avoiding it; summer has not yet arrived. The increasingly light evenings and birdsong may give us hope but the plummeting temperature and incessant drizzle keep us in the reality of cold.

Canadian born, London based designer Erdem, who sites his design signatures as “color, optimism and oddities” breathes light and life into the remaining winter with this striking kaleidoscope maxi skirt..

Previously the winner of the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund in 2010 Edrem, has created a silk-satin, graphic abstract floral print maxi skirt which seems to take natural elements and propel them into another world. This piece is dark and decadent but soft and light in equal measure, nailing the trend for longer lengths, fluid shapes and brights fluro's in one. The print features a riot of colour smudged and clouded with charcoal, while flowers seem to swirl and distort as if cascading to the floor like a flower garden at midnight or being viewed from above water at the bottom of a tropical sea.

Be it with thick tights, biker boots and cashmere or slinky heels and an evening shirt, this skirt gives a injection of summer, the ideal update to compliment and update winters greys, moving seamlessly into warmer weather (here's hoping!) Captivate those bored by muted tones and minimalist silhouettes, keep legs covered and moods cheered. It's multi dimensional and multi purpose. Exclusive to NET A PORTER at £730, click here for more information and to buy.

Tips from The Bright Young Things

London Fashion Week approaches like a tidle wave ready to crash on the capital with an array of dazzling designers, sparkling celebrities and international press.

Though many may not have bagged (or blagged) a front row ticket for the shows, Selfridges invites all to celebrate the event and be at the centre of the action; experience the best of British fashion and get creative as part of their Bright Young Things initative.

The Bright Young Things are 25 creative individuals with diverse skills ranging from jewellery, fashion, accessory, millinery, set and prop design. Each choosen by the buying and creative teams who scoured the UK to find the most exciting talent.

Beginning today until 20th February The Bright Young Things will produce work live on the shop floor on 3rd Central and inspire with their creations. A uniquely interactive London Fashion Week experience and a chance to meet the UK’s up-and-coming style stars.

First up is the opportunity to learn knitting and weaving techniques from former Gareth Pugh protegee and knittwear designer, Craig Lawrence. For something less hands on later in the week, watch as the designer behind the headline grabbing bodysuit worn by Lady Gaga to the Brit Awards 2010, Alex Noble, creates a far out fashion sculpture. Highlights also include a chat with Simone Rocha, Fashion East designer and daughter of John Rocha, or life drawing classes with London-based illustrator Sophie Stephens, the woman behind Henry Holland’s cheeky t-shirt collection.

For the full line up click here.

The 25 Bright Young things were also invited to create their own window and to retail limited edition products designed exclusively for Selfridges. Click here to meet The Bright Young Things and view their windows or here to shop The Bright Young Things collection online.

www.selfridges.com

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Sofia Coppola for Louis Vuitton

Sofia Coppola, the American screen-writer, film director, actress, and producer can now add designer to the already long list of career accolades. Coppola has collaborated with Louis Vuitton on a capsule line of bags.

The collection began with an invitation we'd all like to receive, from Louis Vuitton's Creative Director, Marc Jacobs, for Coppola to visit the historic workshop in Asnières. The trip, as you'd suspect, proved an inspiration; a century and a half of tradition and innovation, an abundance of desirable colors and materials, expert advice from craftsmen and designers, which fused perfectly with Sofia's own clear creative vision.

The bags, SC for day and Slim clutch for evening are Instantly identifiable by their simplicity, quietly luxurious and with exquisite detailing. Speaking of the collection Coppola explains why the details are so important. "Because the designs of both the SC bag and the Slim clutch are so simple, the materials and details become even more important – the clutches, for example, are lined in the softest lambskin, the calf leather SC bags are lined in suede, and the suede versions in calf leather."

The collection captures her personal style and easy elegance, embodying her life philosophy and remaining true to that of Louis Vuitton. Coppola has worked closely with expert designers and craftsman and the finest materials to create her own, fresh capsule line of functional, authentic and chic bags.

Snapped by All Walks Beyond the Catwalk

11 Feb 2011 18.00-22.00

Has fashion imagery has become the lens by which we evalute identity?

Snapped, takes a shot at answering this question through an interactive exhibition curated by All Walks Beyond the Catwalk, as part of the National Portrait Galleries, Late Shift series. All Walks is an organisation which celebrates diversity and design within the fashion industry.

9 fashion portraits shot by renowned photographer Rankin, show the looks of 9 designers including fashion heavy weights, Hussein Chalayan, Matthew Williamson, Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood and Giles Deacon modeled on women ranging from ages 18-80. The stunning portraits are displatyed throughout the gallery, beginning in the Tudor rooms and ending in the Contemporary galleries.

Stimulus also comes from an open debate chaired by All Walks founder and fashion mogul, Caryn Franklin in discussion with, amongst others, Elle Editor, Loraine Candy and Lynne Featherstone MP, Minister of Equalities. Listen to the industry experts, formulate opinions and join in with your own views.

Illustration workshops, an all female DJ line-up, soundscapes, model scouts and additional artworks courtesy of artist-in-residence Josephine Chime, illustrator of plus sized celebrities, leave no space un-attended.

Be engaged and entertained.

Click here for more information and to reserve tickets.

www.npg.org.uk

N.oor Fine Jewellery

More than fine jewellery N.oor is wearable art; icons and motifs mix with sculptural shapes and full body embellishment.

Created with meaning as well as beauty each stone and material used is carefully selected, the Touche du Bois Collection - touch wood for luck - is hand crafted from dark and silky ebony and jet which contrasting with bright sparkling diamonds and sapphires. Perfectly polished sculptural rings, rosary necklaces, bead bracelets and dramatic cuffs are strong, powerful and feminine.

Noor herself is Lebanese but finds influence from her travels between the Middle East, Europe and US, and so her inspiration comes from a range of cultures and countries. Modern, western and innovative designs become instantly recognisable by the small protective eye, the eastern symbol of good luck, crafted in gold with a miniature blue sapphire iris featuring on all her jewellery.

Tactile and playful N.oor fine jewellery is for wearing as well as to cherish. Available at Harrods, click here to visit the N.oor website.

Robert Mapplethorpe Curated by The Scissor Sisters

19th January – 19th March 2011

An icon of the American avant-garde in the late twentieth century, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe has inspired a wide range of visual artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians and most recently, eccentric new york band The Scissor Sisters.

Curated by the band, the exhibition at the Alison Jacques Gallery, brings together seven Mapplethorpe images chosen by the Scissor Sisters after they deployed a series of his photographs as the artwork for their recent album, as well as the singles from the album and the design concept for the accompanying world tour. Alongside these chosen photographs are Polaroids and unique and rarely seen sculptures by the Mapplethorpe and a selection of important works by major contemporary artists who have admired or been influenced by his aesthetic and attitude.

There is a feeling of harmony and balance in Mapplethorpe’s work through tone and compostion. He was perversely committed to the pursuit of ideal form, exploring desire, transgression and identity with a powerful sense of freedom. His fascination with eroticism and mortality, beauty and liberty produced very contemporary interpretations of universal themes which still have a feeling of innovation and modernity over two decades later.

The exhibition not only celebrates the often dark and distinctly decadent sensibility of Mapplethorpe and communicates the powerful creativity and raw sexuality of his work but also showcases the influence he has had, before his untimely death of AIDS related illness in 1989.

Robert Mapplethorpe: Night Work runs until 19th March 2011 at the Alison Jacques Gallery in London. Click here for more information.

Jil Sander Market Bag

Jil Sander is known more for minimal lines, clean cuts and a stark aesthetic than for gay frivovility and a sense of humour, but these Jil Sander Market Bags have just that.

Witty, fun and charming the humble shopper gets a modern makeover. A spectrum of colours and styles in soft leather, acetate and cotton cleverly reference the traditional plastic bag.

Block colours and deck-chair stripes are the stand out pieces, most precisely and authentically resembling the unassuming plastic bag of a local fruit and veg store, which is of course a cheaper alternative.

Prices start from £90 and are available fro NET A PORTER. Click here to shop the Jil Sander collection.

Love from the Dark Room

01 Feb – 14 Feb 2011

In time for St Valentine and in aid of charity Kids Company, a captivating exhibition features donations from and by designers, artists and friends of concept store Darkroom. Based around the heart shape each interpretation of this symbol is different, although there are splashes of red and pink there are no clichés to be found.

Stand out pieces include a tactile, degrade, hand twisted mohair heart courtesy of Craftwork (top left), molded vegetable dyed leather heart bowls from Kuni Awai (top right), repeated brass hearts from “luxury with a wink” and Milk favourite, accessory designer Katie Hillier (bottom left) and monochromatic screen print from pattern obsessed Patternity (bottom right).

The strong and directional aesthetic of Darkroom, a store of eclectic fascinations in London's Clerkenwell, plays host and no doubt inspiration to the creations submitted. The pieces work harmoniously alongside the existing selection of high-end fashion, interior and lifestyle accessories.

Kids Company provides crucial support to children who are neglected or vulnerable. Each child in the charities care is comfortably housed, and supported emotionally and mentally then encouraged to aim high and achieve. Click here to see more about the brilliant work they do

All work on display has a set sale price of £150, a bargain to treat your Valentine and help continue the fantastic work of the Kids Company.
Click here for more details.

Jordan Askill Jewellery

Never a truer word was spoken when Dorothy said "There’s no place like home". This wise mantra is also the title of Jordan Askill's evolving tale of jewellery and sculpture.

An ethereal jewellery collection is based on motifs derived from sculptural works of animal forms, developed and translated into rings, neckpieces, earrings and bracelets. The white gold cuff (pictured above) is directly refrenced from the sculpture Horse Wave Home which in turn is showcased in a short animated film below. A collaboration between Jordan and his filmmaker brother, Daniel Askill the animation is accompanied by a beat from musician, George Barnett of These New Puritans.

As well as the horses forming a crashing wave the collection includes wild cats intertwining with flowers, dancing swallows and undulating tigers fused together.

Askill’s work exists as a tableau in its own world of nostalgic personal mythology. In his created world inhabited by animals Askill also uses precious and semi precious stones to further imortilise his creatures and breath eternal life into his sculptures. Rubies as red as Dorothy's slippers, brilliant cut diamonds and hand-carved rock crystal are set amongst the tableau of white and yellow gold.

Igniting imagination and magic, all Askills pieces are as enchanting as the land of Oz. Available from Liberty, click here to visit the website.

Drugs in Victorian Britain

Friday 11, 19.00-21.00 & Saturday 12 February 2011, 10.30-17.30

Victorian Britain was supposedly a time of modesty and austerity; nudity was regarded outrageous and manners paramount. Imagine then, a time when opium, morphine, cocaine and cannabis were openly on sale in every high-street pharmacy...Britain in the Victorian era was a global Empire awash with drugs

Drugs in Victorian Britain is a series of performances, talks and discussions at the Wellcome Collection delving into these drug addled, dissolute and debauched times. Expand and bend your mind not with the drugs of Victorian Britain but through an exploration of the 19th Century drug culture, discover the origins and todays drug controls.

These events are to compliment the High Society exhibition also at the Wellcome Colleciton, open everyday until 27th February 2011. High Society is a further exploration of the rich history of mind altering drugs, inviting discovery of how these chemicals have been simultaneously fetishised and demonised in today’s culture.

Click here for more information and to book tickets.

SHOES!

8 February - Sunday 3 April 2011

The leading venue for dance is once again set to sweep us of our feet. For the second time SHOES takes to the stage at Sadlers Wells to gives us wickedly irreverent and affectionate look at the power shoes yield.

A celebration of our obsession, SHOES is a witty and analytical show to captivate, amuse and educate. Fall head over heels as the cast of 12 West End dancers, four singers and a live band brilliantly guide you from Manolo Blahnik stilettos to Birkenstock sandals, from Terry De Havilland wedges to Crocs and everything in between. Composer Richard Thomas, had the support and input from brands such as Oliver Sweeney, Nike, Georgina Goodman, Salvatore Ferragamo, Christian Louboutin, Rupert Sanderson and Alexander McQueen to give an accurate dictation of the world of shoes. While choreographer Stephen Mear, creates powerful and dramatic routines with dancers actually performing in every shoe imaginable.

Grab your girlfriends and trot down to witness this entertaining and vivacious performance of dance and music solely about one of the greatest passions of the modern age, shoes.

Click here for more information and to book tickets.

Mimefest

(15 Jan – 30 Jan 2011)

With the absence of words dominating the stage at the International Mime Festival, the focus is on smaller details. Set, costume, facial expression, character and music fill the notable stage with innovative theatre, sophisticated puppetry, animation and cutting edge circus-theatre.

Starting proceedings is ‘La Maldicion De Poe’ courtesy of the Spanish production company Teatro Corsario. The plot is based on tales written in the 19th Century by Edgar Allan Poe whose fascination with the macabre, gothic romance, crime fiction, satire and horror is apparent in every scene. This powerful puppet thriller isn’t for the faint hearted and audiences experiencing the atmosphere at the South Bank Centre may be left feeling chilled to the bone.

The mood lightens later in the month at the Southbank with “The Art of Dying” by Paolo Nani and Kristjan Ingrimarsson. The Danish duos touching slapstick act is based around the friendship of two clowns and the taboo subject of death which is explored when one of the clowns realises he is dying. Whilst it sounds morbid the outcome is an up-beat performance packed with tomfoolery and Loral and Hardy style choreography.

The necessity for props in ‘The Art of Dying” is fairly low with the main focus on the actors, in contrast, Hilum (pictured) being performed at the ICA has an incredible collection of invented and handmade characters whose aesthetic looks as though they’ve been cobbled together from someone’s junk in the attic. But as the saying goes ‘one mans rubbish is another man’s treasure’ and just as the toys do in Disney Pixars animation ‘Toy Story’ these misfits come to life and burst with personality. These outcasts of the puppet world are obscure and undesirable and as Lyn Gardner from The Guardian brilliantly puts it “You keep rubbing your eyes because you can't quite believe what you are seeing. They play with perspective brilliantly and manipulate objects with such assurance that it is hard to know where the human ends and the puppet begins”.

Click here to visit the website and for more information.

An Exhibition for Hipstamatics

13th January - 11th February 2010

The iPhone has cleverly given digital photography a new authenticity with the introduction of the Hipstamatic app. Inspired by the old plastic toy cameras with interesting filters and lenses, digital has an injection of analog and the app has become a cult necessity for all those with the iPhone.

From next week the Orange Dot Gallery in Bloomsbury is to showcase prints from a blog dedicated to this revived form of photograhpy, Hipstamatics.com.

Designed not for the professional but for anyone hoping to caputre a little unpredicatble beauty, Hipstamatic cameras and apps are known for their unfalteringly flattering shots.

The exhibition presents the best works featured on Hipstamatics.com so far. The site allows contributors to share and showcase their best hipstamatic shots alongside some inhouse originals.

Both an homage to the history of Hipstamatic, with 157 prints displayed, this being the same number of the original analog camera produced, and a celebration of its future. For more information on the exhibition click here.

And here is one of my own attempts of the Norfolk countryside this Christmas!

Lucy in Disguise

Vintage fashion typically conjures up visions of musty basement shops with overstuffed racks of seventies throwbacks, rows of cut off denims and piles of size 3 Mary-Janes lying idle and gathering dust. It takes someone who knows vintage, to do vintage well; enter Lily Allen and sister Sarah Owen. Together they have created a vintage Mecca in Covent Garden; a 3 shop-wide shopping emporium filled with the most impeccable pieces from the 1900’s through to the 1990’s.

Co founder Sarah explains “The concept came about originally as Lily had amassed a large amount of Vintage clothes that she didn't want to get rid of but didn't have room to store anymore. As I'd been running a vintage store on Portobello for a few years she asked me if I wanted to go into business.”

Lucy in Disguise is a clever concept inviting customers into ‘Lucy’s’ apartment where they can rummage through her wardrobe of collectable fashion gems from the last century. A bright and airy space with a contemporary white washed backdrop gives the shop a gallery like feel, the perfect blank canvas for the cherry picked vintage treasures, all merchandised by decade. Elegant retro armchairs scattered throughout, handmade chandeliers and a large silver leaf mirror leaning above an intricate fireplace all give the space an intimate, homey feel.

A heady mix of fashion heavyweights, from YSL, Dior and Chanel to Thierry Mugler, Versace and Alaia. Ossie Clark, Leonard, Pucci and Zandra Rhodes, sit alongside lesser known and own label t-shirts. Most pieces are available to hire or buy beginning from as little as £35 up to £4,000. “When creating Lucy in Disguise we were thinking of a woman that has a hunger for Vintage and a love and respect for fashion in general, but not necessarily the bank balance to be able to afford the really desirable pieces, hence the option of hiring out the pieces too. We also wanted to really carefully source and edit the collection so that the working girls could rush in after work or on their lunch break and immediately find something they liked. We didn't always have time to rummage through piles and piles of rubbish till we found that one amazing piece, and we reckoned that others must feel the same” explains Sarah.

One of the earliest pieces is a black velvet hooded coat with batwing sleeves by Tollman dating back to the early 1900’s. Moving into the twenties and a delicate peach lace calf-length dress with beautiful scalloped edges, on to the fifties rail, holding a varied selection of Allen-esque pretty prom dresses with full skirts and spaghetti straps. Finding good pieces from some era’s proved more elusive than others, she explains, post war being one;

“It's quite a challenge to find really good stuff from the 40's because obviously it was wartime and materials were scarce and there was a general vibe of frugality in the fashion industry. It's a challenge to find much other than tea dresses in the UK. To get the really good stuff you tend to have to travel. The US is good as they were not as affected on the home front as we were in Europe.”

The fashion is sourced from all over the world but as Sarah explains, some of the most exciting pieces were found a little closer to home; “My most unexpected find was actually not that far a field. I was having lunch with a friend just outside London and telling her what Lily and I had been up to, when she exclaimed that her aunt had just left her some Vintage clothes. She lead me into a room which was literally filled to the rafters with Hermes, YSL, and Dior. All uberglam stuff from the 60's, 70's and 80's. I loved it because I actually knew who had worn the clothes, seen pictures of her in them, swanning about St Tropez being fabulous.”

Other stand out pieces include a fluro, collared shirtdress by legendary sixties print design house, Leonard, from the seventies is an Ossie Clark diamond maxi dress in black crepe. Among the lycra and sequins of the eighties section is an Alaia classic; a black wool, cropped jacket with signature structured shoulders.

And Sarah’s favourite pieces? “For me, the most inspiring eras to source from are the 20's and 30's because it was all about high glamour. Beautiful, luxurious fabrics and detailing came into play. It was also a very exciting time in for women's fashion as the constraints of the Victorian and Edwardian ages came crashing down. With the women's lib movement, came groundbreaking changes; we lifted our hemlines and began to wear trousers! But I also love a more recent acquisition that stands out as a current fave, a 90's Moschino jacket in a Lichenstein print. It's pretty special.”

The exquisite jewellery cabinets are curated by Liz Mendes and house one off pieces from a swathe of coveted jewellery designers. An amber glass bottle attached to a long gold pendant chain by Kenneth Jay Lane sits next to a Givenchy gold disc necklace with olive stone centre. Other accessories include sequined frame clutch bags from the thirties, fifties feathered headpieces, hats and shoes and Lucy in Disguise speciality candles.

Downstairs is the ‘With Diamonds’ beauty salon where late night customers can have their hair and nails done whilst indulging in a private shopping appointment or if hiring one of the many party dresses, are invited to get pampered and preened with friends at the store before heading out for their night on the tiles. All helped along with a bespoke cocktail or two from the Grey Goose bar in the salon.

It seems the sisters have thought of everything, turning vintage shopping into a uniquely luxury experience all its own.

Click here to visit the Lucy in Disguise website.

Barbour

I grew up in the country amongst an array of misplaced Hunter wellies and old Barbour jackets, neither or which were ever regarded by my family as stylish but rather practical and necessary in the boggy Norfolk fields. With this in mind it's quite strange to me that both of these traditional and functional brands have now become fashionable...

As farmers, fisherman and other country folk continue to wear their Barbours in work, pursuits and living, so too do east London scenesters and cute Camden band boys! For more than 100 years family run company Barbour, have developed a unique understanding of clothing that is truly fit for the country lifestyle and have more recently embraced this new and unlikely urban market.

New for this season is an exciting partnership with another quintessentially English brand, Liberty. The Kate (pictured) is a four pocket women’s wax jacket, available in the traditional Olive, Navy, Rustic or Black. The hard-wearing shell which keeps the damp out and the warmth in, is complemented by linings in one of four Liberty fabrics drawn from the Liberty archive. This is a fresh and feminine twist on a classic design with enough wit, grit and glamour for country housewives and London hipsters alike.

When I think of Barbour jackets, it no longer conjures up memories of the grim soggy walks I was forced to go on as a child and the resulting smell; a combination of wet dog and old wax. Now, Barbour Jackets are fashionable and functional, as suitable for a walk down Bond Street or Glastonbury as they are along the Norfolk broads. To give you the inside scoop I can confirm that next season brings with it another exciting collaboration with a young British designer, watch this space!

Click here to visit the Barbour Website. The Kate is priced at £199.

Philippe Parreno

25 Nov 2010 - 13 Feb 2011

The beautiful surroundings of Kensington Gardens currently plays host to Philippe Parreno’s first solo UK exhibition at the Serpentine Gallery. Algerian born and Paris based Parreno, shows a series of four interloping films. Each is an amalgamation of his skills as an artist and film director and redefines the gallery experience with his dreamlike vision, fantasy and fiction.

One of the four films and his most recent ‘Invisible Boy’ (2010) guides you through the imagination of a young Chinese immigrant living in New York’s Chinatown and seamlessly weaves together film and illustration. The boy’s imagination visually defaces the film reel to reveal Tim Burton style drawings layered onto the screen. Eerie monsters, oversized rabbits playing games at a table and hidden bears appear and disappear showing his inner most fears. Accompanied by a soundtrack from ‘God Speed You – Black Emperor’ which drives the film forward constantly haunting the audience hitting another sense finishes this enigmatic experience perfectly.

Parreno, has manipulated the space, which usually is divided, to become one continual room, subtly encouraging the audience to move through the interconnecting areas with the use of moving blinds, light and sound.

Fantasy, surrealism, imagination, fact, fiction and documentary meet here in a hallucinatory bubble, visit the show and disappear from reality on an extraordinary journey.

Click here to read more about the exhibition and for opening hours.

Night Hawk

WORDS PENNY BREWER
HAIR Roxanne Attard
MAKE UP Helena Lyons
MODEL Merle at Select
ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER Matt Saunders
ASSISTANT STYLIST Alice Oakhill

Fashion in Film Festival

01 Dec – 12 Dec 2010

Treating Londoners for the 3rd year running the Fashion in Film Festival is a visionary spectacle of precious and never-before-seen films documenting the extraordinary displays of fashion and costume within motion picture.

Material pulled from a variety of archives throughout Europe comprises an investigation into films from the late 19th and early 20th centuries and include rare examples of the early introduction of colour. Whilst selecting the content of the show the festival organizers came across reels with surprising displays of costume as early as 1895, which have been dusted off and are being show for the very first time

In an interview for FilmLondon Inga Fraser, the London-based art historian and Associate Curator for the Fashion in Film Festival commented that the “most beautiful films that explored costume as cinematic spectacle” have been selected. She goes onto to explain how silent films from the early 20th century use costume manipulation through dance and film trickery to “ attract, astonish and bewitch”.

Look out for ‘Moulin Rouge’ directed by E.A Dupont in 1928 where the screen is full of spectacular and glamorous costumes which feel exotic even in black and white and contrast heavily with the stark reality of the real world off stage. The awareness of texture and shape in the costumes is heightened due to the monochromatic picture and with the lack of word, exaggerated facial expressions means the actors and actresses become caricatures of themselves in a subtly pantomimic way.

In ‘Tit for Tat’ or ‘La Peine du Talion’ the subject matter is more about nature and is based around transformation, metamorphoses and butterflies, a common subject matter within films of this era. The characters aptly playing butterfly collectors venture into a wood where they are met by giant butterflies boldly displaying their wings, which have been coloured in exotic Amazonian hues.

Like peacocks fanning their feathers women in films of this period were presented as ‘Birds of Paradise’ all the time enchanting the audience and attracting attention.

To catch these dazzling displays and step back in time watch the trailor below or click here to find a detailed schedule.

52 Weeks

It's believed that some are only one pay packet away from ruin, from losing everything. For nearly 5,000 households every week this terror becomes reality as they face the nightmare of losing their homes.

Housing charity Shelter has teamed up with creative agency Margaret, project space and creative hub 20 Hoxton Square Projects and some of the world's leading artists and designers to create ‘52 Weeks'; a collection of artwork for auction.

Inspired by weeks of the year Grayson Perry, Sir Peter Blake, Marc Quinn, Miles Aldridge, Eine and Barbara Hulanicki have all contributed to this exclusive exhibition and online auction to highlight Britain’s crisis.

Original pieces of photography, street art, sculpture, graphic design and painting make up the diverse collection. All 52 artworks are available to view and bid on online here until 27th November, pieces will also be on display at 20 Hoxton Square Projects from 25th - 27th November.

To see the artwork, place bids, and find out more click here.

Pictured above from left to right,
Week 7by Rob Ryan for Valentine’s Day entitled ‘I Lie In My Bed All Alone’. Week 9 by Julie Verhoeven for Paris Fashion Week entitled ‘Turn to the Left, Turn to the Right’. Week 20 by Roksanda Ilincic for International Museum Day entitled ‘Violeta’

The Kellydoscope at Selfridges

There was an old woman who lived in a shoe
But now there's a handbag you can take a walk through!

A perfect replica of the iconic Hermes Kelly bag, named after Grace Kelly, has been enlarged and installed in the Selfridges Wonder Room on Oxford Street.

As part of their Christmas concept 'Play' Selfridges invites you to step inside an interactive handbag universe for a fully immersive and multi-sensory experience; feel immediately dwarfed and see the inner workings and life of an accessory.

The Kellydoscope features video technology and special effect so you almost take on the role of one of the accessories inside, waiting to be picked out and used; three short films showing the lady owner using her Kelly bag in different situations is complimented by rocking and rolling motions mimicking the movements related to each experience.

The 4 meter high Kelly handbag took over 5 months to develop with every detail of the Kelly bag faithfully reproduced, admire the exact craftsmanship involved in the manufacturing of this luxury accessory, only on a scale of 15 times larger.

The Kellydoscope will be join other extraordinary made-for-adult toys on the Ground Floor in the Wonder Room until 30th November. Click here to visit the Selfridges website.

Dior Illustrated

11 Nov 2010 - 09 Jan 2011

Creating impact and brightening up the greyest wintry day this November is the dramatic and iconic work of Rene Gruau, a celebrated illustrator of the Haute Couture world and talented artist of the 20th Century.

The perfect follow up and compliment to the Drawing Fashion exhibition at the Design Museum, (click here to read), Gruau’s sophisticated and alluring work is displayed within the grandeur of Somerset House, which continues to present fashion themed exhibitions.

Gruau started his career at a very young age, at only 14 he sold drawings to the French publication ‘Lidel’ enabling him to support his mother who was a single parent. He worked hard, building his confidence and enabling his style to naturally mature. Confident brush strokes and block saturated colour within bold shapes contrast next to large areas of black; creating the ultimate impact and style for which he is so well remembered for today.

Throughout his career Gruau worked closely with luxury fashion houses including Givenchy, Balenciaga, Lanvin, and most notably his friend and colleague Christian Dior. He was able to interpret the clothing, concept and essence and capture the glamour and style on paper. He added his own stroke of flare and energy to the work, exaggerating the ethos of each brand. He also contributed to fashion and luxury magazines such as L’Officiel, Marie Claire, Vogue and Harpers Bazaar.

Carefully curated alongside Gruau's illustrations are vintage perfume bottles from Dior, his sketches, magazines, poster s, advertising campaigns, specially selected Dior Haute Couture dresses and a dress designed exclusively by John Galliano in homage to Gruau’s life. All serve to put this exquisite exhibition in context and with additional dimention.

Click here for more details and to book tickets. To learn more about Gruau and the legacy of inspiration he left behind, join in the discussion on Thursday 18th November 2010 from 6.30pm with Cally Blackman renowned fashion writer and author of ‘100 Years of Fashion Illustrated’.

No Need to Shout.

HAIR Shinya Fukami using Paul Mitchell
MAKE-UP Helena Lyons using Laura Mercier
MODEL Robbie at Select
ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER – Fred MacGregor
ASSISTANT STYLIST Eleonor Cording-Booth

Nicholas Kirkwood

Fiercer than an antagonised python; these stilettos by Nicholas Kirkwood have potential for elevation to the dizzying heights of iconic status.

High spindly heels and platform soles provide the base for feet to be constricted like prey around swirls and shapes of the softest, most opulent and carefully crafted phython skin. A mix of neutral colours is the nature of the beast but the only respect in which these shoes could be considered passive, they're a unique combination of ferociousness and elegance.

While only 29 years old Nicholas Kirkwood launched his eponymous
collection having graduated from the elite Central Saint Martins and Cordwainers college. Since his first collection in the spring of 2005 Kirkwood has made some serious steps in the world of footwear.

His pieces are architectural in design and construction, blending genres and subverting the relationship between tradition and modernity. Each shoe is sharp and considered, geometric forms and strong clean lines mix with femininity and sophistication. While his shoes are free of excessive decorative elements, instead focusing on innovation and curviing forms, each possesses a certain decadence. Kirkwood uses unusual skins and techniques, devore satin, hand‐printed suede and leather, degrade python, shaved stingray, laser‐cut mirror or rubberized leather, cobra, buffalo horn and sueded alligator.

Divine.

Available to buy from Dover Street Market, click [url=http://www.doverstreetmarket.com/here[/url] to visit the website.

Cowshed Living

Cowshed Living? No this is nothing to do with being a Milk Maid though it may sound more than a little rustic. Cowshed Living is actually a collection of sumptuous lifestyle pieces; an extension of the stylish and luxurious skincare, bath and home brand loved by all and used globally across all Soho Houses.

Already famed for their stylish and natural products, Cowshed specialises in utilising plants and their oils, using organic ingredients and high ratios of essential oils. Cleverly branded depending on your mood (horny, knackered, lazy, grumpy or wild cow) and beautifully packaged featuring iconic black and white prints. Cowshed Living has all the wit and charm of the existing range with a little luxury and practicality however far afield you find yourself!

A range of beautiful and functional pieces; mood of the week knickers, a double ended laundry bag (for clean and dirty), leather notebooks, a patterned umbrella and the hero, a cashemere travel set (pictured.)

Perfect for travel or lounging, snuggly biscuit brown mongolian cashmere socks, eyemask, hotwater bottle and throw (or scarf) are all hand finished and packed prettily in a cotton drawstring bag cutely embroidered with 'knackered'.

The Cashmere Travel Set is £295 and along with all other pieces from Cowshed is now available to purchase from Cowshed spa's, shops and online from the Cowshed website here.

Drawing Fashion

3 November 2010 – 06 March 2011

A sexy and stylish collection of twentieth and twentieth-first century fashion illustrations comprises the Design Museum’s Drawing Fashion exhibition. Towering heels, sophisticated berets, swishing skirts and floating tresses sparkle with imaginative brilliance.

Illustrations from the fashion journals of the nineteenth century used a realistic style of drawing, focusing on precision and accuracy, staying true to what artists observed. When haute couture arrived illustration techniques became more personal and poetic. With the emerging popularity of Vogue and Harpers Bazaar in the early twentieth century came a new form of fashion illustration which embodied and communicated the tones and flavours unique to the product and publication.

The exhibition features a mix of various illustration techniques. Georges Lepape’s cover design for the March 1922 edition of Vogue uses simple shapes and a limited colour palette of earthy tones, producing an extraordinary picture of wondrous glamour, a woman wearing a loose, shimmering, grey dress is assisted with her large coat by a man in a top hat. Its very simplicity is pure elegance. Other pieces of Lepape’s work have a more lyrical and dreamlike quality with softer, curling line work. Lepape’s 1916 set design features wavy tree trunks with spiral textured bark and coiled roots, fragile, white blossoms swirl with a magical quality. The woman is like a fairy ballerina in her poise with one extended leg, pointed toes and head tilted back to face the canopy of beautiful blossoms.

Another highlight of the exhibition is the artist, Mats Gustafson, who has decided to eradicate details in his illustrations to reveal the absolute essence of the clothes. A single paint colour choice is used to create a allowing complete focus on the shapes of the garment.

While other illustrators are demure François Berthoud’s illustrations celebrate sexuality. His 2004 picture, titled Panties, depicts elegant, translucent, floral frilled high heels shoes on a slender pair of bare legs with a cheeky, flirtatious suggestion of the delicate, diaphanous knickers slid almost to the woman’s ankles. Soft rosy pink and cloudy white gives a romantic, dreamy glow to the whole image.

Though these fashion illustrations are not accurate or exact representations of garments and models, the illustrations are highly expressive of the individual artists’ personalities and it's incredible to see them so beautifully curated.

Click here to visit the Design Museum website and for more information.

States of Recollection

Small treasures and mementoes, accumulated over time have been grouped together to create photographs of shrines and secret collections. Each image seems to be a miscellany of keepsakes or articles of nature from secret gardens or hidden drawers - personal effects, well-worn curios and objects that were cherished.

Flowers, captured just at the moment where wilting leaves and pollen-stained petals are locked in the grip of decay engaging at the moment the evidence of ageing begins to fade, unveiling beauty in the hidden and the neglected. While the flowers retain a fragile poignancy in this twighlight state, luminous and more beautiful than in their perfect flourish of youth, the connotation is ominous.

Each shot provides a prism to peer through, creating a series of subtle connections, linking memory, stages of life and the passage of time; providing reminders of yesterdays treasures overlooked as time etches itself upon them.

States of Recollection is a collaboration between still life stylist Annette Masterman who has previously contributed to Milk, click here to see, and photographer Jason Pietra. They have carefully curated and beautifully captured organic and found materials with an imposed nostalgia or interpretation.

Possessing both beauty and drama, States of Recollection, holds peace and stillness. Charming but theatrical and ominous images are memories to be unearthed or imagined.

The exhibition runs from 5th to 25th November 2010 at Eleven Spitalfields, click here for more information.

States of Recollection is part of Photomonth, an annual collective of photography exhibitions and events Click here to read Culture Writer, Zoe Hodge's round up Photomonth.

Counter Culture

A unique concept space has sprung up amongst the dark tunnels of London Bridge Station. Since mid September Counter Culture has played host to an eclectic mix of cultural events. The concept, conceived by a bunch of driven individuals passionate about music and the arts, aims to draw punters off the trodden tracks of Shoreditch, Dalston and the existing established venues in the area. By offering a selective slice of art, theatre, poetry, spoken word, film, comedy, scattered interestingly with live music and DJ sets Counter Culture has quickly become an anchor point on the cultural map of London.

Financed on a modest budget by the founders and admirably not a venture capital company has allowed freedom in their cultural picks, which are often innovative, experimental and very different from one to the next. “It’s all about the fun, aiming to bring that festival vibe home from the fields and into the club, bringing back smiles to the dancefloor...” says Hannah Cox head of Marketing, Management & PR at the venue.

The lights in this tunnel are only on for 99 days and on 1st January 2011 they set to close after an almighty New Years Eve extravaganza, get there before they go out.

Click here to visit the Counter Culture website for further listings and more information about the project.

Lulu & Co

With the help of some special friends fashions favourite fairy godmother, Lulu Kennedy, curates her first collection. Lulu & Co, is a ten piece collection of iconic dresses by some of London’s most influential designers.

The tenth anniversary of the inception of Kennedy’s philanthropic project, Fashion East, a talent incubator for aspiring new designers, seemed a fitting opportunity to give a little back, for those whose careers she helped launched.

Conceived as a series of limited edition ‘edits’, the works are an anthology of the best of British talent including Jonathan Saunders, Louise Gray, Richard Nicoll, Roksanda Ilincic and Marios Schwab. Some pieces have never been produced before, selected solely for showcase on the runway. Others have been re-worked in new fabrics or colours to give them a contemporary currency.

Marios Schwab’s fitted LBD is one such piece, shown in stretch gross grain fabric zipped from top to bottom and patch-worked with leather pieces at the shoulders. A knee-length, silk drape dress in raspberry and nude comes courtesy of Roksanda Ilincic (pictured above left,) with signature over-sized bow. And Louise Gray delivers a vibrant monochrome trapeze maxi with yellow fluro back panel (pictured above centre.)

Kennedy is mindful of creating an offering with a point of difference from what is expected of such adept and aspirational designers, explaining;

"We tried to improve on price and make it more accessible than their (the designers) main line and made clothes easier to wear. The process has been a massive eye opener for me."

Meadham Kirchhoff have re-fashioned their best selling dress in this vein, with a black tulle shift, woven with antique gold thread – raw edge hems and joins characteristic to their style. Another look tipped to become a modern day classic is the floor length ‘Wyler’ gown from Jonathan Saunders (pictured above right,) part of his 2007 collection, with graduated flame chiffon insert centre, worn by Kennedy herself at the official launch party for the label.

And it’s just the beginning of the Lulu & Co adventure according to Kennedy;

"We’re going to open it up; we’re talking to some menswear designers and with some new collaborators – I want to take Fashion East to the next level”.

Now available at Matches, click here to shop.

Show Me Shlomo

(31 Oct 2010)

The unassuming Shlomo leads a troupe of top beatboxers, musicians and spoken wordsmiths to the stage this weekend with a highly anticipated performance, saturated with spontaneous, innovative and raw sounds, culminating in an exceptional sensory overload.

Beatboxing, a bizarre but extraordinary technique of making drum beats and rhythm using your mouth dates back thousands of years to India, China and Africa. Vocal percussion, as it was formerly known, obtained its name from mimicking sounds of the first generation of drum machines called beatboxes.

Simon Shlomo Kahn aka Shlomo recently contended in the World Loopstation Championships, smashing all other competition and grabbing title of UK Champion; a great accolade to his talents. A true human phenomenon he has been creating improvised sounds from a young age and believes we are all capable of beatboxing:
“I've been making noises since I was tiny … I got a drumkit for my 8th birthday, and after several complaints I was banned from practicing after 6pm. But Top Of The Pops was on at 7! I always wanted to be able to play the drum beat of whatever was number 1, so I had to come up with different ways to practice my rhythms”

Since then Shlomo has collaborated with some incredible artists such as Bjork, on her mainly A capella album Medulla and Imogen Heap from Frou Frou in an outstanding duet this year at Glastonbury. Using his memorised palette of inhuman sounds his impulsive performances are full of rhythmical propulsion, the energy of an atomic bomb and are polished like a brilliant cut diamond.

This guy is firing on all pistons and next appears at the Bristol Old Vic in BOXED his theatre production, which he describes as “beatboxing's answer to Stomp”. Catch him now before he heads to LA to battle it out with the best loopers and beatboxers in the world. He's also included on The Milk Maids Spotify playlist click here to listen and here to see more about Shlomo on the Southbank Centre website.

Autumnal Beauty

A stroll by a river took my breath away - the dappled sun light shinning through the just turning leaves and reflecting off the waters surface was just magical. Look closely and you may see some fairy-tale creatures!

Coco Sumner

HAIR AND MAKEUP Carol Morley
ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER Robert Oades

Coco Sumner – the coco you are blaming – certainly has the blueblood of rock aristocracy running through her veins but she is no rock stars brat! It may or may not be worth mentioning she’s the daughter of Sting and Trudie Styler; she’s the spit of her father and has that familiar gravely tone of voice, but don’t bother dwelling on it she hasn’t. Her and her band, I Blame Coco, are quickly asserting themselves as an authority on the pop scene and with the release of their album, The Constant, critical acclaim is pending.

Coco Sumner is more than her father’s daughter but a song writer and performer in her own right. After an initial beginning if not imitating then certainly referencing the reggae and ska melodies similar to those of the police, Coco has since shifted to a more upfront electro-pop with a philosophical feel, concerning herself with intimate words on top of epic sounds.

On the day of the shoot the weather is somewhat confused; blistering heat followed by pouring rain in a matter of minutes. Coco too can be unpredictable, a contradictory mix of left over teenage angst, insecurities and musical dexterity. She claims to hate having her picture taken, though possesses an ambiguous and striking beauty loved by the camera. Her insecurity manifests itself in defiance and opposition. She often looks confrontational in photographs, staring out the lens with a tense and angry posture, eyes full of challenge and a deep set scowl etched firmly on her face.

She arrives at the studio dressed in her now iconic shorts, ankle sock and brogue combination with the token quilted Barbour jacket. A heavy weekend bag is slung over one shoulder and her hands are full negotiating a packet of cigarettes, coffee and a croissant. Obviously tired, nervous and self-conscious but eager to play the professional, on meeting the photographer she sacrifices the cigarettes, so anxious is she to appear polite and humble, throwing the packet on to the damp floor to free up a hand to shake.

Coco Sumner is more than a little awkward, socially and physically, she’ll be the first to admit she’s never quite fitted in and certainly doesn’t yet seem quite at ease with those long slim legs holding up that tiny frame. Though she hides behind her hair nothing manages to disguise those ethereal and beguiling eyes or dilute the shine and determination held deep within them.

The title of her soon to be released album is open to more than one interpretation; a Constant is something that will always be there, that won’t ever end. It’s also a clock that you put into something and after a number of steps it explodes. Timeless and explosive? Welcome to the world of I Blame Coco.

The Constant, will be released 8th November following new single, In Spirit Golden, out the week before on 1st November. Click here to visit the official I Blame Coco website for more information.

The Red Leather Satchel

Margaret Howell is known for her classic shapes, simple lines and modern aesthetics; pieces with enduring quality and design credentials to last forever!

This autumn the London designer has created a limited edition range of women's satchel bags. Hand crafted in the Midlands by Whitehouse Cox, specialists in saddlery since 1875, each bag is hand finished and debossed with an individual number to indicate the limited run.

If this seasons clothes are about paired down coloured pallettes in greys and camels then accessories must offer something bold, bright and beautiful to higlight the neutral tones. The small red satchel made with vegetable tanned leather designed to soften with age and develop a unique character, is a perfect flash of vibrant colour.

Priced at £225 from Margaret Howell stores, click here to visit the Margaret Howell website.

The Future Beauty

As overcast or rainy days become more common place with winter encroaching, the 70’s concrete jungle surrounding The Barbican Centre is particularly gloomy. However, until February The Barbican is home to the most extraordinary exhibition of Japanese Fashion, perfect to inspire over the dull winter months.

Future Beauty, curated by distinguished fashion historian and director of the Kyoto Costume Institute Akiko Fukai gives examples of the most ingenious Japanese fashion design to date. Visually illustrating 30 years of Japanese fashion design the exhibition showcases the early days of Issey Miyake to present day street culture.

White linen hanging high from the ceilings divides the 3rd floor art gallery into four sections, creating a stark, calm and clinical feel. The space created is perfect for displaying, amongst others the achromatic garments from Rei Kawakubo, founder of infamous label Comme Des Garcons, fragile pieces from Yohji Yamamoto and garments from the technically gifted Junya Watanabe the protégé of Rei Kawakubo. The most exceptional are pieces from the Issey Miyake’s seminal “Pleats Please” collection. Presented are two garments highlighting the complex heat processes and extraordinary origami style pattern cutting expertise used to achieve the unique constructions. This technique is typical of the Japanese aesthetic known as “iki”; encapsulating simplicity, sophistication, and an unwavering direction.

Prepare also to be hit with strips of rouge, again from Miyake and his fascinating and revolutionary A-POC collection. The collection comprises tubes of fabric specially woven with fully finished garments, removing the need for a sewing machine.

Also explored is Japanese street style and popular culture in a sub-exhibition entitled ‘Cool Japan’ featuring youthful cartoon and cute motifs such as smiley bees and wide eyed cartoon characters help explain the fascination with the fashionable concept “Kawaii”.

The penultimate section focuses on individual designers who have a significant presence within the fashion industry and whose style has challenged the Western worlds traditional take on design and the notion of beautify. A thoroughly awe-inspiring display for anyone with an appreciation of design.

The exhibition runs until 6th February 2011. For opening times and to purchase tickets click here.

Kate Spade Pop Up Apartment

In a discreet but grand Georgian townhouse located just off Covent Garden Market lies the ultimate 'pop-up apartment'. WIthin the walls of what seems the perfect show home for only one month is a selection of pieces from the iconic American label, Kate Spade New York.

Placed elegantly and merchandised casually among a bespoke interior is a selection of the label's finest pieces, simple silhouettes with clever details and crisp palettes. Blending perfectly with the homey trinkets is exclusive London merchandise and the bags, luggage, shoes, jewellery, stationery, eyewear, apparel and homewear for which the brand is so well known.

Each room of the pop-up apartment is beautifully decorated and accessorised in the manner of the intended purpose. A beautifully made made bed, a wardrobe bulging with beautiful clothes and scarves draped over the door, a cluttered coffee table. Everything in the apartment from the crockery in the dinning room, the books in the drawing room, the lamps next to the four poster bed to the art on the walls, has been hand picked to reflect the world of Kate Spade and the new york woman.

The Kate Spade pop-up apartment is at 7 Henrietta, London, WC2 until 10th November. By which time www.katespade.com will be shipping to the UK, so now you'll never be without!

The Impossible

It is in a cluttered studio just off Ladbroke Grove, that designer Penelope Chilvers, begins and ends her journey creating the most fabulous collection of footwear and accessories. In a vast space, floor to ceiling with shoe boxes, scattered with tear sheets, sketches and leather samples, Penelope produces shoes, boots, sandals and bags to fall, and stay, in love with.

Penelope’s ethos is to work closely with the artisans and manufacturers with whom she works. A scholarship to study an MA at Complutense University in Madrid was the beginning of a 10 year stay in Spain and so it is with fluent Spanish that she communicates daily with the small factories in Spain.

A common thread throughout Penelope’s designs is the ability to combine a desirable and stylish aesthetic with function and practicality. She often references vintage pieces, utilising the key design and functional elements that gave pieces from the past a true longevity. “I have a love for nostalgia” explains Penelope, like her vintage finds “each of my pieces is unique and only improves with age.”

Amongst the classic flat leather boots, velvet Cuban heeled ankle boots and Afghan clogs is The Impossible; a perfect example of the heritage, craftsmanship and style Penelope always manages to capture. Produced by family run factory, sympathetic to traditional snowboot design and using techniques handed down through generations, the Impossible is full of character with a whimsical wink at folk.

Hand drawn sketches with annotation and fabric samples.

Images of mountain walks with schnaps, pigtails and yodeling are evoked by the comfort, style and glorious warmth of The Impossible; feet are cocooned completely in a shearling linning and a cowhide, wool or suede outer with cute coloured, woven braids and trims. Naturally impermeable the cow hide is completely brush clean, each pair comes armed with two extractable, natural wool insoles, should one ever get wet and a cheeky upturned toe isn’t only a quirky design feature but also allows a cushion of air above the toes for maximam warmth.

Next summer sees an equally desirable collection, look out for denim look leather totes, gold leather Chelsea boots, perfectly formed espadrils and studded clogs.

Click here to buy The Impossible from Net a Porter, priced from £375, or here to visit the Penelope Chilvers website.

Secrets of the Chanel Jacket

(Above and illustration by Karl Lagerfeld)

In the world of Chanel nothing is by accident, nothing is coincidence, everything is considered.

From the Chanel No. 5 perfume, the fragrance a combination 5 different scents, the bottle of which was the 5th design and the lid which replicates the exact shape of Place Vendôme where Chanel opened her first boutique. The two tone shoes, beige to elongate the leg and black to make the foot appear smaller and more dainty. The double C logo, resembling the led and glass windows of the convent in which she grew up in Aubazine, France. The little black dress, the star, the camellia, the pearls, the lion, chains, braiding, tweed, jersey; all are Chanel classics, integral to her design and crucial to her story.

Each year Karl Lagerfeld takes these considered components and magically reinvents the staples into modern and contemporary pieces, creating new and exciting collections while never leaving the previous obsolete. As Karl Lagerfeld himself said, “Everything must evolve but we can keep the spirit. It must not become an homage but evolve within time and fashion”.

The spirit of the classic Chanel Tweed Jacket is practical, elegant, comfortable and flattering, captured perfectly every season; featured in every collection and yet always unique. This season Lagerfeld has once again drawn on this classic, designing a collection of suit-dresses and shorts in dynamic silhouettes using flecked, layered and blurred tweeds, with fluffy feathers on hems, shoulders and cuffs for touches of feminine frivolity.

From left to right
Photographed wearing her own designs, the elegant Coco Chanel
A look from the Spring/Summer 11 Chanel show in Paris.

Corsets were the fashion of her time, but Coco Chanel shunned these in favour of softer construction, tailored jackets with many panels for an exquisite fit. Though incredibly chic, it frustrated Chanel hugely that clothing for women was restrictive, uncomfortable and impractical. She required something with a perfect fit for sophistication, a lining that allowed movement, maintained form and had pockets for function.

Chanel was inspired by the tweeds of British country sportsmen, most notably the Duke of Westminster with whom she had an affair and was widely regarded as the most stylish man of his time. She also referenced military in the details, gold buttons and epaulets which were not overly decadent but embellished the jackets tastefully. A lining made from jersey, a fabric previously only used for men’s underwear, cut identically to the outer tweed with chains sewn into the hem to keep the jacket hanging ‘just so’. Though the jacket evolves the essence always remains the same.

The chanel jacket is both an icon, something to be treasured forever, and a practical jacket to be worn and enjoyed everyday. Reinvented each season while remaining a classic.

Diaghilev and the Golden Age of Ballet Russes

(25 Sep 2010 – 09 Jan 2011)

The fascinating world of the influential artistic director Serge Diaghilev and the most innovative dance company, the Ballets Russes, is explored by a stunning exhibition at the V&A this season.

During the late 19th and early 20th century the arts worked in parallel and synchronization, swinging like a pendulum, each in turn influencing and being influenced. This momentum drove forward a fresh wave of thinking, which resonated modernity. Known as the Belle Époque this period was one of revival and transformation for art, music, dance, literature and science and the Ballet Russes is the most stark example of societies shift in thinking at that time.

Russian impresario Sergei Diaghiliev reawakened audiences with his theatrical spin on traditional ballet, creating a modern experience to stun audiences and revolutionise performance dance.

Diaghilev, socialised in artistic and musical circles as well as within the Imperial Theatres in Russia. Many of his epiphanies, which resulted in his avant-garde vision of opera, ballet and theatrics, were formed within these circles. His links to the Imperial Theatres allowed him to select the most talented dancers, creating a first class foundation with which to experiment and radicalise. Dancers such as Vaslav Nijinsky who surpassed any previous male dancer, astonished audiences with his deep and intense characterizations, effortlessly reinventing himself for each production. He also worked closely with composer Igor Stravinsky whose work possessed exotic compositions and aggressive dynamics. Despite hostile responses from audiences Stravinsky boldly continued regardless, his moving and often alienating work is now considered as some of the most impressive music of the 20th century.

Diaghilev didn’t only work with dancers and musicians that spun the familiar on it’s head, he enthusiastically collaborated with a mix of modern thinkers including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Jean Cocteau and Coco Channel, adding a colourful, exotic and multi faceted edge.

The V&A have gathered a rich and interesting collection of rare paraphernalia from the Ballet Russes archives; posters, props, pieces of the original set and costumes curated to tell the story of the Ballet Russes and this defining era.

Click here for more information and to book tickets.

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To accompany the exhibition the V&A are also hosting a series of events, workshops and talks, click here to view listings. A talk on Friday 15 October with Justine Picardie about how Coco Chanel shaped the modern woman and her involvmenet in the Ballet Russes will make for an inspiring evening for fashion lovers. Justine is the author of recently published biography of Coco Chanel. Click here to read more about Justine Picardie's book, Coco Chanel; The Life and Legend.

Photomonth

The digital era has technically removed the anticipation and suspense out of photography; the creativity of development seems to be a dying art. Digital, has also removed those split second decisions regarding shutter speed, aperture diameter and ISO speed, but in return it has given us a real-time visual slice of our world.

Photomonth, an annual collective of photography exhibitions and events, begins today, continuing through October and November. Acting as a reminder of the meticulous expertise required for a manual camera Photomonth also recaps the endless possibilities of a digital camera.

Beginning with a series by James Mackay, who presents a poignant display of images from Burmese prisons at the Amnesty International head office. Focusing on the detainees, who are frequently imprisoned for minor offences and often from ethnic minorities, raises the question of whether the Burmese government orchestrates ethnic cleansing. With international reporters denied entry into the country and a jail sentence of up to 30 years for capturing the country through a lens, Mackay risked his freedom to gather these precious images.

In contrast, an interactive event takes place on 11th October within Spitalfields, where willing participants are set on a treasure hunt tasked with unravelling cryptic clues. Once they have solved the clues and arrived at their destinations they must depict their answers in a photograph. The winning results will then be exhibited in the Old Truman Brewery.

Photomonth presents work from numerous angles, from the politically infused to the simply beautiful, utilising a variety of photography methods. An asset to London’s cultural timetable.

Click here to visit the Photomonth website

Mini Cooper Bicycle

The new Mini Cooper is a bike! As quintessentially British as the iconic car the new T250 Aintree ladies is bike is the cutest I've seen since the pashley.

Named after the race track on which the famous cooper car rose to victory. The T250 Aintree boasts innovative British engineering combined with classic British style credentials. A slim and elegant powder blue frame with a Brooks swift saddle and leather bar tape, ensure a light and comfortable ride influenced by classic 60's design and it's racing heritage.

I advise investing in a good lock, sure I'm not the only one who love, wants and needs this and they may not be prepared to buy their own!!

For more information or to buy visit the website here

Save the Postcard Auction

After many a holiday resulting in soggy and scribbled postcards at the bottom of my beach bag, I no longer bother. I can never be selfless enough to compromise beach hours and sun time in search of stamps and post cards.

A recent survey reveals I’m not alone, only 1 in 10 holiday goers now send postcards, chosing instead to text, email or Facebook. In a bid to save the great travel tradition and to raise money for ‘Flying Start’ (a British Airways’ charity in partnership with Comic Relief) the BA inflight magazine High Life has invited celebrities to design postcards for auction.

Renowned British Artist Tracey Emin (whose postcard is pictured above) is one of many celebrities backing the ‘Save the Postcard’ campaign. “My father would send me postcards from every place he went, so I could share the magic of his journey as the postcard landed on the floor. I am a big postcard sender, mainly pictures of cute kittens or little animals. In this day and age, when so many people text and email, I am asking you to revive the tradition of the postcard.”

Here are some of my favourite designs from 'Save the Postcard'

David Bailey

Savannah and Sienna Miller

Gordon Ramsay

Giles Deacon

The auction begins this evening at 5:30 until 1st November. Click [url=www.bahighlife.com ]here[/url] for more information and to place your bid! All proceeds will go towards helping to transform the lives of vulnerable children living in cities across the UK and some of the world's poorest countries.

Coco Chanel, The Life and The Legend

Above the Chanel boutique at 31 Rue Cambon in Paris Coco Chanel’s apartment remains preserved pristinely and immaculately since her death in 1971. It was here in 1997 that journalist and critically acclaimed author, Justine Picardie, first interviewed Karl Lagerfeld who told her there was a lot of Chanel’s story left untold consequentially inspiring her to write a book about the legend and the life of Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel. Going beyond simply documenting her lovers and fashion, but exploring her childhood, traveling on her journey, understanding her influence, comprehending her political interest and communicating her passion and her bravery.

Over tea in a discreet and intimate room in Claridges the elegant and articulate Justine sits demurely explaining Coco Chanel’s life to be “The most huge and extraordinary jigsaw puzzle, she lived through 3 generations, she lived through so much. Her life spanned two world wars, the Belle Epoque, the jazz age, the Wall Street crash, the depression, the Fifties, the Sixties, mini skirts, the death of JFK…I wanted to follow the real trail not just the whispers.”

She also shared stories of her research, spoke of her own journey; so fascinating and vivid she’s practically penning another novel as she speaks. Her investigations took her to extraordinary places, Scottish castles, French convents and secret privately owned archives. She recalls one particular visit to the Ritz in Paris, an account told with a sincerity and intelligence of a woman not easily perplexed and never fooled but clearly on this occasion spooked.

"I ended up staying in the bedroom at the Ritz where Chanel died. Not the Coco Chanel suite which is rented out for lots of money, a very small room on the Sixth floor on the Rue Cambon side, quite a modest room by Ritz standards… I'd switched the lights off and I was lying there dozing. Then something odd happened with the lights. They went on and off and on again without me touching them. I switched them off again. Then suddenly this bulb from a crystal wall sconce hurled itself towards me on the bed. I sat up and said “ok, I’m listening!"...Then…nothing. I made a pledge then I would be true, that I would do everything I could to honour the truth and Chanel… In the morning a chambermaid came to the room. I told her it was very strange here last night and she said "Ah, did Mademoiselle come?"

Following trails and scouring archives previously unfollowed, undiscovered or unauthorized Justine has created the penultimate biography of Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel featuring previously unseen exclusive photographs and illustrations by Karl Lagerfeld himself. It seems that an intuition, the grace of good luck and thorough research has uncovered a world of both magic and sadness, where nothing is by accident or coincidental.

Coco Chanel, The Legend and The Life is not only a well researched and beautifully written biography but an historical memoir of a previous era.

Coco Chanel, The Legend and The Life is published by Harper Collins and is on sale at Amazon now, click here to buy. Justine Picardie will also be hosting several illustrated talks over September and October, visit her blog here for details.

100 Days of Resistance

Imagine, 100 days of positive thought and active change? Imagine 100 days where if you speak up you'll be heard?

In an provocative and inspiring collaboration Vivienne Westwood Anglomania and Lee Jeans are inviting you to stand up and speak out!

Take a photo, write a slogan, create an image and show your active resistance. Each day a submission is selected and will be shared online at www.ar100days.com.

The project began on the 8th September and runs over 100 days. At the close of 100 days, the 100 chosen images will become a part of a London exhibition dedicated to the project.

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania and Lee are actively encouraging communication and individuality through this online installation. The Dame herself explains how “The principle idea of Active Resistance is that you get out of life what you put in and that real experience of the world involves thinking...“It is not enough to follow world politics, see films and read the prize-winning best seller. This is superficial, you need to go deep in order to understand who you are, what the world is and how things could be better. This involves culture which can only be acquired by self-education: human beings should mirror the world.”

For more information on Active Resistance please visit www.activeresistance.co.uk and to submit work visit www.ar100days.com.

Causse - A Hand In History

More than a hundred years ago three French brothers created an atelier of handcrafted, leather gloves in the tiny French town of Millau, known endearingly as ‘The glove capital of France’.

Causse was established in 1892 when Paul, Henri and Jules Causse opened their factory with the ambition to produce collections of gloves with unparalleled quality and design. The brothers learned their craft cutting patterns in the glove factories of their town.

It took years of patience and meticulous precision for the craftsmen and women of the Causse factory to master a perfect and seamless technique; some patterns required more than a hundred procedures to create just one piece.

By 1935, the company was supplying gloves to the greatest names in French fashion including Hermes, Chanel and Vuitton and selling products in the world famous department stores of America. In 1950, now in the hands of the 2nd generation of the family, Jean Causse thrust new life into the company. He began a series of innovative experiments into fabric technology and created the first prototype for a high-tech driving glove. It caught the eye of the world famous Michelin tyre company with whom a forty year partnership was forged. The seventies saw further reinvention with a fashion and sportswear offering, marrying the original techniques of assembly with more progressive expertise whilst never losing sight of the excellence now expected of the brand.

The Causse house today explains that “The very specific know-how has been passed on from generation to generation; so have the tools. Modest but precious, some of them have been in the company since its origin in 1892; including the cutter, scissors, boxwood straight edge or ‘charlemagne’s foot’ (spud knife with a blunt edge)’. The same for the seamstresses, sewing machines and ‘fuseaux’, they were already in use in the 1900’s.” It is this specialist knowledge and outstanding heritage on which the brand prides itself, in 2006 it was awarded with the ‘Living Heritage Company’ label by the minister of industry for ‘maintaining exceptional know-how’.

And now in the care of artistic directors Nadine Carel and Manuel Rubio, who have accolades from ‘ANDAM’ and the ‘Empreinte (maker’s mark) of the Year Awards’, Causse continues to scale heights with collections in museums around the world and a showcase store in the heart of Paris. Great classics are revisited and brought up-to-date with the addition of contemporary detailing; laces, knots, buckles, animal print - always unusual, always refined. They describe it as ‘A Voyage to the heart of know-how and luxury’.

Now the only remaining glove-maker in Millau, Causse employs thirty five people and produces 25,000 pairs of gloves each year in its workshops. They may have one hand steeped in history but the other is resolvedly reaching for the stars.

Causse is stocked exclusively at Browns

Noughtie Nightlife

While we hurtle towards the end of the decade, a new photography exhibition, Noughtie Nightlife, reminds us of nights gone by. A generation of clubbers and tribes have been captured in vivid and iconic photographs.

Curated by Antony Price, photographs taken by prominent club, trend and fashion photographers document the noughties youth culture. Featuring the fashions, styles, faces and attitudes of cult London club nights such as Kash Point, Nag Nag Nag, Durrr, Smash & Grab, Boombox, Circus, Secretsundaze, Caligula, Anti-Social and All You Can Eat.

Noughtie Nightlife, is an LCF research funded project and all images will later be archived at London College of Fashion for future generations of students studying across the six colleges of University of the Arts London.

Running from 9 September – 2 October 2010 at Rich Mix: Bethnal Green Rd, E1 6LA. Click here or call 020 7613 7498 to book tickets.

J Brand 5x5

What do Christopher Kane, Erdem, Meadham Kirchhoff, Peter Pilotto and Richard Nicoll have in common?

All are male fashion designers, known for their direction and innovation, they each show their unique and iconic collections in London each season, all have either currently or previously had the support of Topshop's NEWGEN incentive.

Most recently however, the common ground is a unique collaboration with premium denim label J Brand. Jeff Rudes, CEO and Founder of J Brand spoke of how “Each designer had a unique interpretation of J Brand that continues to expand the breadth of our brand." He is also keen to "help support future young designers through the Centre for Fashion Enterprise, the London organization that provides business guidance and mentoring for emerging fashion design talent.”

The collaboration will be showcased this evening at five top retailers in London to celebrate Vogue’s Fashion’s Night Out.

In order of appearance in the photgraph above, from left to right.
J Brand /Peter Pilotto for 5 x 5 at Selfridges
J Brand /Richard Nicoll for 5 x 5 at Liberty
J Brand /Christopher Kane for 5 x 5 at Harvey Nichols
J Brand /Meadham Kirchhoff for 5 x 5 at Browns
J Brand /Erdem for 5 x 5 at Harrods

0o0oh, it's like a treasure hunt!!!

Cire Trudon Candles

A treasure almost forgotten, the rich and luxurious scents of Cire Trudon candles are now the most desired. Though the Maison de Cire Trudon never ceased trading since it's beginning in 1643 the memory of Frances' oldest wax and candle manufacturer was almost relinquished.

In 2006 Ramdane Touhami was appointed Creative Director, while he remained true to the Maison's past and legacy he also looked into its history to imagine its future. Possessing passion and respect for the glorious heritage he introduced 12 scented candles. He was inspired by the scents and stories of French aristocracy, royalty, events, religion, revolutions, movements, weather, myths and legends. These were all embodied in scents to evoke and create memories, paying homage to the times surrounding the illustrious and lengthy past of the Cire Trudon Maison.

Creative Director, Ramdane Touhami

While the scents are a recent update the rich history, authenticity and legacy remains true and the expert craftsmanship continues; slow burning vegetable wax hasn't changed for four centuries, glass is hand-blown by master craftsman in Italy and the gold label adorning each glass is produced exclusively for Cire Trudon.

Cire Trudon Candles are available exclusively at www.united-perfumes.com, Liberty, Selfridges, Roja Dove Haute Parfumerie at Harrods and Browns Fashion

The Perfume Diaries

The first significant perfume exhibition of recent times is now open at Harrods, The Perfume Diaries chronicles the fascinating story of perfume from ancient times right through to the modern day.

Compliment this educations with some indulgence, afternoon tea in celebration of The Perfume Diaries will be served in the iconic Georgian Restaurant at Harrods.

Created by Eric Lanlard, master pâtissier, the exquisite new afternoon tea menu is inspired by the key perfume notes and ingredients of The Perfume Diaries. Using his unrivaled craftsmanship and creativity, Lanlard has created six stunning pastries, cakes and miniature puddings each is infused with prominent perfume notes, from the classic rose, violet and spice to the more unusual bergamot and lemongrass.

Enjoy the Perfume Diaries Exhibition and Perfume Diaries Afternoon Tea on Harrods fourth floor from 2nd September – 2nd October 2010. Tea for two is priced at £30 or £40 with Champagne. Click here to visit the Harrods website.

Topshop LFW Space for Spring Summer 2011

If you're a fashion lover you'll know that London Fashion Week is just around the corner beginning in less than 2 weeks.

Always a fraught but fabulous time, Fashion Week is a highlight in the calendar. New collections and booze fueled parties aside, what I'm most excited about this season is the new Topshop show space...the vast abandoned old Eurostar Terminal at Waterloo Station.

One platform will be transformed into a catwalk where the NEWGEN and Fashion East designers will show their S/S 11 wears, and the other into a Topshop Cafe, an essential Fashion Week pit stop.

Topshop continue to support young design talent allowing them to show at London Fashion week along side their own Topshop Unique collection, now in its twentieth season. Bright and airy the Eurostar Terminal will play the perfect host to Michael Van Der Ham, Peter Pilotto and old favourites; Meadham Kirchhoff, Richard Nicoll and Mary Katrantzou.

Can't wait!

Little Wing

ART DIRECTION AND ILLUSTRATION Madeline Griffiths
HAIR Matt Tindal
MAKE-UP Joanna Willard

"Well she's walking through the clouds
With a circus mind that's running round
Butterflies and zebras
And moonbeams and fairy tales
That's all she ever thinks about

Fly on Litttle Wing..."

Jimi Hendrix (November 1942 – September 1970)

All clothes are vintage and models or stylists own.

The New Perlée Collection

Borders of golden beads have encircled the clover-leaf constellations of precious hard stones since the 1920’s as part of the iconic Alhambra range. These have now been unraveled by Van Cleef and Arpels to create the new Perlée Collection.

Featuring graphic designs and playful rhythms the Perlée collection captures the same spirit of elegance, playfulness and frivolity but with a vibrant and modern update.

The bands, my personal favourites, emulate the historic pearled border of the Alhambra, only braided into and around ribbons of pink and white gold in a range of desgins, some set with diamonds or engraved with script or the Alhambra motif. If you had enough of these they'd be perfect for stacking!

Click here to view the complete collection.

Vivienne Westwood Shoes: An exhibition 1973-2010

In celebration of the woman who pioneered Punk, defied convention and whose career spans decades, Selfridges has opened a retrospective of Vivienne Westwood's shoes.

As famous for her footwear as she is for her clothes, the iconic British designer believes shoes to be the ultimate fetish object, that they "... must have very high heels and platforms to put women's beauty on a pedestal. "

Illustrating the evolution of her signature style since the 70's there are nearly 200 from Westwood's personal archive as well as those from her current collection; the collectable Rocking Horse shoe, the timelessly on trend Pirate Boot the platforms responsible for the most memorable fashion moment, when Naomi Campbell tumbled from the great heights of the Super Elevated Gille on the catwalk and the most recent rubber designs in collaboration with cult brand Melissa.

Displayed in Selfridges' permanent exhibition arts and exhibition space, The Ultralounge, the exhibition is on display until 22nd September.

Click here to visit the Selfridges website.

Erotic

In a bid to bring some energy from the underground to the mainstream the Barbican has invited two luminaries of London’s avant-garde performance scene to create one night of exotic, flamboyant and surrealist adventure.

Lara Clifton of Whoopee/Republic of She and Johnny Blue Eyes of the House of Blue Eyes have collaborated and called upon the cream of London’s underground club and art scene. Creating a night of performance, art, dance, poetry, installations, fashion, photo shoots, experimental sounds and pole dancing.

Lara Clifton was the co-founder of the Whoopee Club which was responsible for creating theatrical, avant-garde club nights that ‘redefined the cabaret and party scene in London’ (TIME OUT 2009). Her new project, ‘Republic of She’, is a web based platform for performance art – due to go live next month.

Johnny Blue Eyes, a stylist and Creative Director of fashion, music and art collective House of Blue Eyes works with a “family” of performers and musicians. Collaborators include the iconic Scissor Sisters, Beth Ditto and The Gossip, and rock ‘n’ roll goddess Peaches.

Johnny Blue Eyes is keen to share his world with everyone believing that "...we are what we were when we were children, as we move through our lives this gets suppressed as we feel we have to behave in a certain way. The free, joyous childish side of people gets locked up, my work is about personal freedom, giving everyone a chance to be free; its ok to reach back to that place in an appropriate way. 'Erotic' will be like Dorothy and her red shoes, going down her yellow brick road and meeting different performers and energy along the way."

"Prepare to be intrigued, surprised and shocked. Dress up, dress down, or undress!"

'Erotic' adds another dimension to The Surrealist House, an exhibition exploring the power and mystery of the house in our collective imagination, throwing light on the significance of surrealism for architecture. 'Erotic' is part of an extensive program of events to compliment The Surreal House, it’s not a nostalgic remembering of the Surrealist movement, but a recognition of how surrealist thinking is still vital and alive within underground culture.

Tickets are priced at £12 and include same-day entrance to the exhibition The Surreal House, click here to book. For tickets and more information about The Surreal House exhibition click here.

Dandy Doll Brogues

These brogues are ticking some serious style boxes. With a great colour combination they nod to the boat shoe, wink at an 18th century court, while shaking hands with a 1920's American Gangster and his spats!

Priced at an amazing £60, about the price of a night out in a bootleg bar! Click here to visit the Office website.

Natural Beauty

Even in their demise these roses are stunning.

The way the petals become like a translucent parchment, so fragile and delicate that the slightest breeze would leave them scattered on the floor. Like a picture painted with water colours, a blush of the previous hues, the petals curl at the edges, closing in on themselves as they had once unfurled.

Even in death, on the brink of becoming something ugly, roses are at their most extraordinary and charming.

Click here to see An Urban Rose, a fashion story which encapsulates the idea of a wilting rose.

Carven: A democratic view of fashion

French fashion brand Carven was accredited as the originator of ready-to-wear, sixty five years on and the label is making a rapid return with an impeccable and desirable Autumn/Winter collection. Perfect classics with additional touches create the epitome of the forever sought after French style.

In 1945 post- war Paris, a time when the world of haute couture dominated, a complete novice, Carmen De Tommaso, (soon to be known as Madame Carven) set out to create a collection of sporty, youthful clothing for active, practical women. She presented an offering of accessible luxury, an unheard-of democratic vision of fashion, and turned the elite arena of couture on its head.

“I want the woman who wears my clothing, regardless of her age or lifestyle or financial means, to feel beautiful and sexy but not déguisée (costumed).”

Today the Carven spirit is being shaped by Paris based, Guillaume Henry. Touted by Net-a-Porters Natalie Massenet as ‘a young Saint Laurent’, Henry is an alumnus of Givenchy, under Riccardo Tisci and former design director at Paule Ka. Designated as the guardian of The House of Carven’s heritage, Henry is already creating collections that are fresh, lively and elegant.

Henry describes his Fall/Winter ’10 collection as “a wardrobe puzzle; fresh, chic pieces to throw together”. Prim Peter Pan collared twisted jersey dresses, archive inspired cocoon coats, high-waist, nipped-in city shorts, pencil mini’s with slits on the thigh and micro cashmere sweaters all in tones of camel, rust, charcoal and navy. The most coveted coat of the season is the tuxedo-style camel wool coat, already notching up a waiting list at Browns.

With Guillaume Henry at the helm, Carven is making waves once again with chic, spirited, pared-down fashion, free from ostentation and pretence - just the way Madame Carven, who celebrated her 100th year, last year, would have wanted it.

Available at Browns Shop 24, The Shop at Bluebird or online at Net A Porter

Dolce and Gabbana

The August and September issues bring with them an array of new advertising campaigns. Always something to excite and delight as brands covet the most innovative and eye catching displays to embody and sell the seasons collection. This season it is Dolce and Gabbana who have really caught my eye.

As many fashion consumers shift to seek desirable and luxurious pieces with longevity and heritage many brands are concerning themselves with communicating their individual integrity; expressing their superior craftsmanship, peerless heritage and timeless designs.

While others translated this quite literally, replicating parisian workshops in warmly lit studios, the new Dolce and Gabbana gives a more intimate and warm picture of the italian brand.

A quintessentially Italian woman, complete with thick tortoise shell glasses and silk headscarf, sits in a cluttered 50's style milanese town house pinning by hand the cuffs of a starkly contrasting Madonna. Standing up with a dynamite black tailored silhouette she outstretches her arm nonchalantly in a surrounding not usually associated with either pop star or the famously glossy, polished Italian brand.

The new Dolce and Gabbana campaign is a series of similar images, all visually stunning and without pretence. Communicated is a feeling of warmth, familiarity and intimacy installing the brand as possessing not only expert tailoring and a design process like no other but also one with a heritage, legacy and quality steeped in tradition.

View more of the campaign and shop the collection here

Serpentine Pavilion Gallery

An annual occurance for the last 10 years, the Serpentine Gallery plays host to a newly constructed piece of innovative architecture.

Always worth a visit, this year the Serpentine Gallery Pavilion has been designed by highly acclaimed architect, Jean Nouvel, responsible also for creating yet another shopping destination in London, One New Change in St Pauls.

Architectural exhibitions can be isolating experiences where the viewer is left looking at a complex collection of linear constellations lacking tangibility. However, Jean Nouvel’s Serpentine Gallery Pavilion is an example of success. The striking red assembly of geometric forms, beams and sloped freestanding partitions is supposed to juxtapose with the natural green park resonating in it surroundings like a Rothko painting. However, the drought has left this contrast a little lack lustre but it’s a beautiful and awe inspiring structure none the less.

From a functional point of view the Pavilion is also a brilliant asset to the park, flexible components, namely retractable awnings, enables the Pavilion to accommodate events such as Gallery Park Nights and a cafe. It also works harmoniously with the ever-changing British summer weather providing shelter and cover along with stunning views of the sky both day and night. A hugely recommended site to see.

Red Velvet Cupcakes

The perfect aesthetic compliment to my pretty little teapot and an immense addition to my, limited, cooking repertoire, here are my home made, red velvet cupcakes.

Using possibly the most complex recipe I could find which wasn't intentional and included cider vinegar(?) and perhaps a little too much (a lot!) of sugar and butter it was that of New York cupcake destination, Magnolia Bakery.

Cream cheese icing with a blueberry on top (I didn't have a cherry and any way they match my garden table much more prettily) were the finishing touches.

Enjoy fresh in the afternoon sunshine with a cup of English Breakfast tea.

1:1 - Architects Build Small Places

A set of seven carefully considered installations have been scattered within the Victorian and Albert Museum. Out of these seven selected constructions, which tessellate amongst the magnificent emporium of history, two present an emotional take on modern architecture.

Within Mumbai, one of the world’s most densely populated cities there is an ever growing struggle for room, habitats with innovative solutions to the lack of space have cropped up in the most humble of places. These cleverly constructed dwellings are neither palatial nor extravagant but they are rich in smart space saving techniques. Studio Mumbai Architects have extracted the charm, intelligence and dignity from these abodes and presented a concentrated sliver in credit to their creators.

Responsible design is paramount in today’s society and this comes in the purest form from Rural Studio, a company conscientiously providing affordable accommodation to poor communities settled in rural Alabama. Not only do they provide a highly relied upon economic solution to accommodation they also provide a training centre for undergraduates from Auburn University. Their multifunctional ethos aids the wellbeing of the community whilst providing experience and enrichment for the architecture students. From viewing this structure you will learn about both sustainable and savvy sources where they extract their raw materials from and methods to extend the longevity of each abode.

Eonnagata

Beginning today, The Sadlers Wells production of Eonnagata returns London for the the second time. Produced by a trio of creative masters this skilfully assembled piece contains a dark but magical mix of acting, dance and ballet.

Sylvie Guillem’s agile and graceful moves are choreographed by Russell Maliphant on a stage designed by Robert Lepage the level of expertise is un-deniable.

Theatrics includes cross-dressing with costumes inspired by the late Alexander McQueen, espionage and displays of swordsmanship worthy of a place in ‘Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon’,

Eonnagata is inspired by the story of the Chevalier d’Éon (Charles de Beaumont), diplomat, part-time soldier, amateur spy, and member of the King's Secret: a network of spies under the control of Louis XV. De Beaumont was perhaps the first spy to use transvestitism in the furtherance of his duties and until the day he died his true gender was a source of constant speculation.

Creators of Eonnagata not only create a stunning performance but also shed new light on the enigma of the Chevalier d’Éon and investigate the question of gender in this dance theatre collaboration.

Eonnagata runs from 28 July – 31 July 2010. Click here for more information and to book tickets.

Chanel - Coco Cocoon

Only Karl Largerfeld would have the humour to create a bag which takes its inspiration from the softness and warmth of a down-filled jacket, or the gentle feel of a cosy blanket in soft calfskin. It could only ever be Chanel!

The Coco Cocoon collection of bags is as timeless as it is contemporary 2.55, boasting the elegance of the legendary diamond-shaped quilting and discreet Chanel logo with a younger, fresher energy.

For urban use or travel the Coco Cocoon line includes a full range of sizes and functions, from clutches to suitcases; generously sized 12 or 24-hour bags, messenger bags, backpacks bowling bags; all functional and sophisticated.

Nylon, lambskin,super-soft orylag fur, matt-finish alligator skin or washed and textured calfskin create these elegant bags in a simple colour palette of black, cobalt blue, charcoal grey, light grey, silver, chocolate and ivory.

I've got my eye on this navy nylon shopper. Click here here to visit the Chanel website.

Circus, Sex and Sensuality Celebrated

From the Brainchild of Brit photographer, Matilda Temperley comes Circus, Sex and Sensuality; an exhibition of dazzling images exploring the vivid and vibrant world of Contemporary British Circus. Documenting the confident physicality of the female circus performer, this exhibition uncovers the strong sexual identity of trapeze artists, contortionists and circus stunt girls and how through performance they demonstrate how to demystify nudity and inhibition.

Matilda elaborates ‘There were a few occasions in the studio where I had several naked girls dancing all day without any inhibitions – it was an amazing lesson to learn. It’s that freedom of expression I was hoping to capture.’

Bare bodies covered in painted monochrome stripes strike strong, dramatic, fluid poses with familiar clownish faces of heavy arched eyebrows and exaggerated smiles. One arresting image features five twisting, turning performers, silhouettes over-lapping - or is it a trick of the camera? - resembling the dust filled stampede of a zeal of charging zebra. Another, in contrast, of a stocking-clad contortionist, held upright on her forearms, legs twisted around her biceps. The contradictive symbiosis of rigid feet in soft silk ballet points and her Pierrot the Clown face paint with gentle expression suggesting that tenderness can exist alongside strength.

The project is inspired by a movement known as Social Circus, a cause close to Temperley’s heart. After a research trip to Africa in 2008, she witnessed first hand the transformative effects circus education has on young people, marginalized in society or at social risk. It was the motivation for founding Circus Child alongside two colleagues, Leila Jones and Harry Hoffen - the former a producer at the Roundhouse specialising in circus performance - an organization identifying and supporting social circus projects, using circus as a means of social engagement and empowerment.

Temperleys limited edition prints will be showcased at Sam Roddicks luxury erotic emporium, Coco De Mer in South Kensington through the summer, alongside a capsule collection of circus inspired outfits and accessories including hats by Victoria Grant designed exclusively for Coco de Mer. All proceeds go to Circus Child.

Mr. Postman

MAKE-UP Helena Lyons using Mac
HAIR Akiko Kawasaki using L’Oreal
MODEL Luisa Wroblewski @ Elite London

Footballers vs Soldiers

A few friends on Facebook have the below as their status update. Despite saying I'd make no further mentions of football on Milk after the last but I was so moved by this I wanted to share.

Two planes landed in England yesterday.. One brought back a group of overpaid, underachieving footballers.. The other brought back seven coffins, each with the union jack draped over them.. Footballers play for our country.. Soldiers FIGHT for our country.. Footballers give ninety minutes, soldiers give their lives.. I know who i respect more.. R.I.P. our boys.. Copy and paste this to your facebook status, show your support..

It's a shame that this is the result of the England teams poor performance, but I've no doubt this is a genuine belief of many people. May you all rest in peace.

The worlds biggest shoe destination

What could be more divine than one hot destination for every shoe ever needed or wished for? Urmm...not much!

In answer to many a girls prayer those clever clogs at Selfridges will, come September, be presenting you the worlds largest shoe department.

The above creation is by avant garde and exploratitive shoe designer Chau Har Lee whose unique and captivating designs will be one of many sold in the shoe store.

From Topshop to Lanvin; Dozens of designers, thousands of shoes, one ultimate destination!

If shoes are your bag you may also be interested in a new production at Sadlers Wells called Shoes opening around the same time. Click here to see more.

Fall/Winter 2010-2011 Louis Vuitton Ad Campaign

Bringing together three generations of super models, Christy Turlington, Karen Elson and Natalia Vodianova, the Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2010 - 2011 advertising campaign will break in the August Issues of magazines world wide. Milk is proud to give you a preview of the rich, evocative and feminine shots.

Photographer Steven Meisel has captured exquisite and intimate moments, evocative of a cinematic glamour reminiscient of dressing-room from 50's Hollywood. The photographs show a series of enchanting scenes, caught in romanticised sepia tones; the perfect showcase for this seasons sweet bustiers and ladylike sweeping skirts.

Always diverse this campaign like the others before it continues to has taken yet another direction from the previous, but as explained by Artistic Director Marc Jacobs "The strength of Louis Vuitton is its almost magical ability to reinvent itself every season. Last season was all about the idea of the New Age traveler. This season was a manifesto for beautiful, ladylike clothes. Two different collections, two different campaigns, but one Louis Vuitton."

Rope Carre silk scarf from Jane Carr

Scarves are perfect for the summer, as flirty additions of colour or light protection from the typical british summer chill. Jane Carr, former Versace disciple where she was head of printed textiles for womenswear, now specialises in creating exquisite printed accessories of her own. Most recently she has developed a selection of nautical inspired scarves, every single one of which is dangerously close to appearing around my neck (not all at once of course).

Stepping away from the cliche of nautical colours, instead using traditional sea fare prints cleverly combined with seasonal hues. Shells, coral and in the case of my favourite (pictured) rope prints are available in a variety of colours from the rainbow.

Jane Carr - Silk and cashmere, hand finished scarves starting from £150. Click here to buy and for a full list of stockists.

Coming Soon - Fashion

Stylist, Natasha Wray is shooting another story for Milk today which I can't wait to share.

You might spot her around the streets of Hackney and she'll no doubt be armed with a steamer and a rail of stunning, carefully selected clothes and accompanied by photographer, Jon as well as hair and make-up artists. All necessary prep as the story with which we will be spoilt soon evolves.

Click here here to see Natasha's previous shoot for Milk, An Urban Rose.

Free Range

Free Range - Graduate Art Fair (03 June – 05 September 2010)

Another academic year goes by so giving us another cohort of imaginative graduates, bubbling with fresh ideas and imagination.

Tap into this young optimism by visiting Free Range, an annual exhibition held in the creative hub of the Truman Brewery on Brick Lane. Free Range is Europes largest Graduate Art and Design Show, featuring submissions from the graduates of over 50 university courses, from all over the country. This year sees an international presence for the first time, India, Japan, Russia and other European countires are both visiting and exhibiting.

After 10 years Free Range is being identified as the best place to spot the latest trends and newest talents. Free Range provides a much needed platform for recent graduates to network and showcase their work within every creative discipline in a brilliant space for 2 months. Show your suppor by visiting and expect to see everything from Fine Art to Fashion. On show until September.

Below and above are by the winners of the Free Range Art Award.

Lead Image by Chris Mear, Burton College

Ben Raynor, Batley School of Art & Design - 'Albert' mixed media drawing. (my personal favourite for its simple, playful humour)

Nicola Thompson,Cleveland College - White Mountain Lady

Ann Taylor, Barking College - Grandad

Rob Attard, City of Westminster

Click here to visit the Free Range website.

Selfridges Summer Sale

The haunting and taunting signs with life changing proclamations are back...today sees the start of the Selfridges Summer Sale!

Beginning with staggering offers up to 75% off on labels such as Mc Queen, Vivienne Westwood and Balmain. As well of course, everything else for sale in the wold renown department store.

While I'm yet to buy an item in the sale which has changed my life, I've found the odd few which have significantly improved it!

Doors opened at 8am so if you haven't already been, hurry!

Hero Magazine Launch Party

Fashions finest males flocked to Camp in Shoreditch on Tuesday evening to celebrate the launch of the 3rd edition of Hero.

Hero was developed and created by James West (the star who designed Milk) and his partner Fabien Kruszelnicki. Together the multi talented duo (James a designer and Fabien a photographer) created a magazine promising to deliver the faces of tomorrows fashion; the newest and best male models.

Hero is quickly becoming a cult bible of the hottest male models as well as bubbling hub of fashion and photography talent . The latest issue of Hero includes fashion by well known stylists such as Robbie Spencer and Andrew Davis and the work of photographers like Andreas Larsson and Leon Mark. You may also recognise some familiar faces from the catwalks of Milan and pages of GQ.

I wish James and Fabien every success on this project, it's a great magazine and those boys sure know how to throw an achingly cool party.

Click here to visit the Hero website and buy a copy.

FIFA World Cup Trophy case

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With the World Cup close to kick off, my tolerence of football has already reached fever pitch! Though this might, I say MIGHT, make me a little more interested in football!

Louis Vuitton have created a travel case commissioned by FIFA to hold footballs greatest prize, the FIFA World Cup Trophy ready for presentation on 11th July in Johannesburg to the winning country.

Designed to accommodate the celebrated, solid 18 karat gold Trophy and created by a single master craftsman in Louis Vuitton's historic Asnières workshop near Paris, the case perpetuates Louis Vuitton's long tradition of creating elegant cases for travellers to transort their most precious possessions. In the iconic Monogram canvas the case is fitted with the company's signature brass lock and corners with a dark brown lining.

This, I promise, will be the only football mention on Milk for a very long time to come but for a Louis Vuitton luggage, I had to make an exception! Click here to see the new Louis Vuitton Maison in London.

A Little and Lovely Scent Luxury for your Travels

A convinient and decadent bottle, no larger than a lipstick, is the prefect addition for your travels to ensure you're always able to refresh your scent.

These minature perfume bottles are exquisitely hand-carved from a variety of semi-precious stones including red tourmaline, smoky quartz, rose quartz, amethyst, morganite and pink tourmaline.

Designed by the in-house creatives at Ritz Fine Jewellery, (who are lucky enough to work on the 11th floor of the iconic hotel) each bottle is meticulously hand-crafted in Idar Oberstein. It is in this German region that this type of carving, beginning with a hunk of semi precious stone, is a speciality craft local to the area.

Each comes with a pepette to decant your own signature scent and specific gemstone colour combinations can be specially made for an extra personal touch.

Miniature Perfume Bottles start from £2,000
Click here to explore the fabulous world of Ritz Fine Jewellery

Gold Mulberry Bag

The Alexa bag by Mulberry has already been a national sell out and become a universal object of desire. Last friday Selfridges upped the ante and unvieled the GOLD Alexa, created exclusively for them by Mulberry.

Available only at Selfridges, the limited edition Alexa has already sold over half of the total quantity of the Gold version in just 3 days! There are just a few left so if you want one click here to visit the Selfridges website and quickly buy!

The new Louis Vuitton London Maison

If the road to hell is paved with good intentions then the road to heaven might well be paved with Louis Vuitton Trunks!!! The ceiling in the new Maison are mirrored panels, above a tower of vintage and new trunks seem to be endlessly stacked into the heavens!

A manifestation of luxury, design, innovation, culture, heritage and taste is embodied in the new Louis Vuitton Maison!

The quintessential Louis Vuitton luggage, beacons of the brand are just some of the stunning offerings. Three floors, each expressing exceptional luxury and dedicated to creating light yet intimate space, are full to the brim of the exclusive products, some specially designed for the store. Devoted to accessories, the ground floor includes leather goods, jewellery and sunglasses. Glass stairs lead to either the ‘men’s universe’ on the lower ground floor or up to the first floor to find a paradise of womenswear, shoes and a unique Librairie. The store's second floor is a separate, luxurious world - the private client suite, an appartment which can only be accessed by invitation.

Amongst the exclusive products , some specially designed for the store, contemprary art from well known names, including Richard Prince, Takashi Murakami, Jeff Koons, Gilbert and George and Damien Hurst sit.

After a 125 year association with London, Yves Carcelle, Louis Vuitton President, describes our capital as "one of the most important fashion and cultural cities in the world...Opening a Maision in London is an expression of our belief of our optimism in the future of this city" It brings together innovation, heritage and fashion – all values that are important to Louis Vuitton.” To continue the journey with London , Louis Vuitton has launched The 'Young Arts Project which aims to contribute to the development of the cultural and artistic dimensions of young people living in London. Click here to read more about it.

Hillier London

At Last! After winning Accessory Designer Of The Year in 2009 and designing the most covetable accessories for labels such as Marc Jacobs, Luella, Loewe and Giles, Katie Hillier has finally decided to create her own accessory line, Hillier.

‘It's something that I have been thinking about doing for the last five years and we decided (myself and my team Nancy Sandison and Rachel Pelly) that we wanted to start something of our own. I have always wanted to work in fine jewellery’

Remaining true to her ‘luxury-with-a-wink’ essence and losing none of the fun aesthetic integral to all that she does, Hillier has created a selection of pendants featuring exquisite freehand doodles of adorable woodland creatures, all captured elegantly and playfully in gold with a single exquisite diamond.

Despite the seemingly frivolous and fun designs these pieces are impeccably hand-crafted, artisanal in their workmanship, created in either yellow, white or rose gold and set with a diamond eye available in a rainbow of colours.

Three joyful bunny rabbits (her favourite animal), a wise owl and mischievous squirrel are amongst some of the whimsical and enchanting pendants from Hillier. My favourite is the cheeky little yellow gold mouse with a claret diamond eye, there’s also a cute snail, oh and an adorable sausage dog. Actually, I’d quite like one of each!

For more information (and to watch a super cute video) Click here

Louis Vuitton Young Arts Project

Earlier this week Louis Vuitton announced an exciting partnership with five of London's leading cultural institutions. In collaboration with the Hayward Gallery, Royal Academy of Arts, South London Gallery, Tate Britain and Whitechapel Gallery, the Louis Vuitton Young Arts Project is a three-year incentive to allow young people from all across London to gain invaluable experience within the arts.

Following the sponsorship of numerous exhibitions at major institutions, and the success of the Louis Vuitton Art Talks series at which artists interact closely with the invited audience, Louis Vuitton wanted to celebrate the opening of the New Bond Street Maison with a major new project that would extend opportunities to younger, often less privileged people to access the art world.

Of the project, Louis Vuitton Chairman and CEO, Yves Carcelle, says: " As the leader of the luxury industry we believe that we naturally have a responsibility to the world around us. Moreover, transmitting savoir-faire and creativity is one of our founding cornerstones. Preserving the past and preparing for a brighter future are fundamental”

The investment will facilitate a programme to give young Londoners between 13 -25 from all areas of London, recruited from schools and community youth groups, unique access to those who shape the British contemporary art scene. As well as the five art institutions committee Members of the Louis Vuitton Young Arts Project, who include artists such as Tracey Emin, Gary Hume, Michael Landy, Keith Tyson, will be pivotal in providing opportunities for the young participants. Priceless advice, encouragement and support from those who have already achieved so much in their own careers will add a vibrant cultural dimension to the lives of those successfully enrolled in the scheme.

Mayor of London, Boris Johnson who has endorsed the project: “What is particularly exciting is that Louis Vuitton wants to use its cachet and its cash to involve young people in the arts and is working together with such high profile cultural institutions. This chimes with so much of our work at City Hall to provide positive opportunities for young people and to promote culture in these difficult times. London needs businesses like this to think creatively about what they can give back”.

This is a great opportunity for London’s dynamic youth to gain unparalleled insights into the art world and embrace a creative spirit synonymous with the Louis Vuitton brand. For more information on this inspiring and educational project click here

Louis Vuitton Young Arts Project - Press Conference.

El Rubon Cubano

El Rubon Cubano is a fortnightly shindig, which celebrates the essence of Cuba, where music is central to the culture.

Forget Sunday as a day of rest and start the new week with a traditional Cuban cocktail, (mine’s a Mojito!) and get warmed up and ready to Rumba! Hit the floor with David Martinez from Cubana Danza who’ll be teaching you all those sexy Cubano moves.

Prepare for an authentic explosion of sound from Carlos Miguel and his band Azucar Morena who’ll be playing Son, Bolero, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha, Timba and Salsa.

Click here for more details.

Modern Day Mix Tape

A few more tunes to keep you tuned in!

Click here to listen!

Grace Kelly: Style Icon Exhibition

Grace Kelly, fashion icon, Hollywood actress, Princess and envy of many woman.

A new exhibition, opening soon, at the V&A traces the evolution of this most exquisite and captivating lady whose life seemed a fairy tale. From Grace Kelly to Princess Grace of Monaco, the exhibition explores the eras she embodied with her stylish flair, feminine charm and great beauty.

Supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, the exhibition will present over 50 of Grace Kelly's outfits; dresses from her films, the gown she wore to accept her Oscar award in 1955, the lace ensemble she wore to her civil marriage ceremony to Prince Rainier in 1956 and 35 haute couture gowns from the 1960s and 70s by her favourite couturiers Dior, Balenciaga, Givenchy, and Yves St Laurent. All displayed alongside film clips and posters, photographs and her Oscar statuette.

The exhibition will also include accessories, most notably the original Hermès Kelly bag and exceptional Van Cleef & Arpels jewellery. A few days after her engagement to HSH Prince Rainier of Monaco he went in to the Van Cleef & Arpels boutique in New York to choose a “souvenir” for his fiancée, he was convinced by Louis Arpels that elegant, shimmering pearls would most suit Miss Kelly’s delicate beauty. This jewellery was witness to the most private
moments in Princess Grace’s life and I can't wait to see it!

Grace Kelly: Style Icon at the V&A begins on 17th April running until the end of September for more details and to book tickets click here

To see the beautiful selection of jewellery from Van Cleef & Arpels click here

The Milk Maid's Spotify Playlist

Spotify is like your own radio station and for you, I've created a modern day mixtape!

Click here to enjoy!

Chicks on Guitar

The Barbicans Curve Gallery, a space of strange proportion and constant innovation has been transformed into an aviary and is currently home to a flock of zebra finches, furnished with electric guitars and other musical components.

Curated by French artist Céleste Boursier-Mougenot, a musician and composer, the space draws on rhythms from daily life, cleverly juxtaposing and combining the haphazard natural and man made music.

The small finches are encouraged, by emulated natural habitat and day light, to go about their routine activities, flying around in the large space, and perching on or feeding from the various pieces of equipment, creating a captivating and live soundscape on the guitars, consequential of their normal movements, preening, strutting, pecking, contrasting with their noisy chirps and tweets.

Here's a little teaser, but I assure you it's worth visiting yourself.

© Extracts from Ariane Michel's film, Les Oiseaux de Céleste. Copyright Galerie Xippas, Ariane Michel and Céleste Boursier-Mougenot, 2008

Fully interactive in that the space is shared with the birds and their instruments, the mumblings of the audience seems to add further still to the organically generated sounds and become themselves part of the instillation. The zebra finch, a sociable bird but one that wouldn't normally bond so well with humans are now incredibly tame, one man had 4 on his foot playing with his shoe laces. I've been meaning to go and see this since it opened at the end of February but am now glad I waited, the birds friendliness added to the interactive experience, I imagine they would have at first been suspicious of those gazing at them and surprised by the noise their perches made.

The exhibition lasts until 23rd May. Click here to visit the Barbicans website.

Chanel Sunglasses

Coco Chanel loved ribbons and so do I!

In a witty interpretation of the way she wore them, these Chanel sunglasses are decorated by wire ribbon; circling the frames and playfully snaking around the lenses, tying in a bow at the arm hinges.

Karl Largefeld constantly references the character and charm of Chanel and this small nod to her innovative style is yet another immaculate touch.

These delicate yet statement glasses will certainly be finding their way into my beach bag!

Click here for the Chanel website.

Milk

Pleased to make your digital acquaintance! Welcome to Milk, to nourish.

Milk is for you, the fashion conscious thinker; providing provocative features, remarkable culture, inspiring fashion and exciting design, punctuated by arresting and captivating imagery delivered daily by me, The Milk Maid.

Click the 'about milk' button at the very bottom of this page if you want to know more. Otherwise, have a peruse, you'll find something new in each section.

Thanks for coming to visit and check out the first installment. I hope you enjoy!

With very best wishes
The Milk Maid

Spotify Playlists

Click here to listen to The Milk Maid Spotify Play List

Like a modern day mixtape! Tunes for the highs, the lows and when the only thing to do is dance!

Enjoy!

About Milk

Milk launched in 2010, founded by me, Penny Brewer, aka The Milk Maid, with the aim of providing fodder for the fashion-conscious thinker. I wanted to regularly deliver online content to 'to nourish', inspire, amuse and educate, punctuated by captivating imagery.

I grew up in the rural Norfolk but have spent nearly a decade living, studying and working in London, now considering myself equally as at home in the city as in the country, splitting my time between the two. I love exploring both on and off the beaten track, though more on as I’m particularly partial to my home comforts.

Having worked in PR and Communications since graduating from London College of Fashion with a BA in Fashion Promotion and Journalism, I have a varied experience and am now available on a consultancy basis to advise on digital communications and execute online marketing strategies. Since founding Milk, I have undertaken freelance projects for various luxury fashion and lifestyle brands.

Please email - pbrewer@themilkzine.com - for more details.

I'm also on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram!

Twitter - @TheMilkZine
Facebook - TheMilkZine
Pinterest - TheMilkMaid
Instagram - @TheMilkZine

Contact

For all enquiries please contact Penny Brewer - PBrewer@TheMilkZine.com

I'd love to hear your thoughts, feedback and comments or if you'd like to contribute so please do get in touch. I'm also available on a consultancy basis to advise on digital communications and execute online marketing strategies for luxury lifestyle and fashion brands.

Connect with me on Social Media:
Twitter - @TheMilkZine
Facebook - TheMilkZine
Pinterest - TheMilkMaid
Instagram - @TheMilkZine

Stockists

A
Asos

B
Ben Day
Betty Jackson
Browns

C
Cartier
Chanel

D
De Beers
Dorothy Perkins

E

F
French Connection

G
Garrard

H
Harrods
Katie Hillier

I

J
Jimmy Choo
Jane Carr

K
Karen Millen

L
Lallys Closet
Laura Ashley
Laura Lee
Louis Vuitton

M
Margaret Howell
Matches
Mikimoto
www.mulberry.com
My Wardrobe

N
Net A Porter

O
Office

P
Paul and Joe
Paul Smith

Q

R
Ritz Fine Jewellery
River Island
Rokit

S
Stephen Webster
Selfridges

T
The Out Net
The Shop at Bluebird
Topshop

U
UGG Australia

V
Van Cleef and Arpels
Urban Outfitters

W
Whistles

x

Y

Z