Saturday 9 August 2008

A/W '08 TREND ALERT: The peplum

Peplum: ''A short full flounce or an extension of a garment below the waist, covering the hips.''
The new shape this season is without a doubt a very flattering one. The peplum shape showcased especially by Miu Miu, is an extra layer of material that kicks out just below the waist of a jacket, skirt, dress, blouse or a pair of trousers. When described, you may not think it would do the average woman's figure any justice, however the volume of the shape works like that of a waist belt, emphasising the small part of the waist giving the perfect hour glass illusion and instantly making your waist look smaller.

Yves Saint Laurent, Burberry, Prada, Etro and Chanel (just to name a few) have all said yes to this curve-enhancing design, and luckily for us high street stores such as River Island and Topshop have jumped on the bandwagon and begun to re-create the look in the form of dresses and jackets.
<<Topshop £55 - autumn must have!

A/W '08 TREND ALERT: Lace

Vintage belle or sexy chic? Whichever look you decide to go for this fall, look to the catwalks for your inspiration. Far from your grandmother's heirlooms, lace is back and can be styled in a number of different ways.


Both Prada and Luella told the story of a gothic fairy tale with lashings of black lace appearing on their runways. Luella mixed cute skirts and hats to create a spell binding look. Team with paisley prints to achieve the true vintage look, ruffles and victoriana styles look great as proved by Alexander McQueen, or add a subtle twist if you are feeling less brave. Mario Schwab and Prada opted for chic lace conservatively cut dresses, with little to nothing underneath giving a sexy vamp appeal.


Friday 8 August 2008

A/W '08 TREND ALERT: Check it out


This fall showcases the revival of the checks; Dolce & Gabbana, Balmain and Cavalli sent their models down the runway in a variety of checkered styles, ranging from beatnik black and white to tartan prints, highlighting the unexpected versatility of this trend.

Checks have developed over the years; birth place being the 60's in which it took form as beatnik, moving onto the 70's, checks were more laid back and indulged the bohemian vibe of the era, 80's saw punk styles inspired by Vivienne Westwood, and the 90's took a preppy form.

Autumn/Winter '08 runways embraced a collaboration of the era's which has already hit the high streets, with flashes of tartan creeping onto shop floors and the ever more popular lumberjack shirts appearing in most high street stores, this look has never been so easy to embrace. Create a look to suit you, opt for punky tartan prints mixed with studded belts and wet look garments as seen on Balmain. If that's not for you, follow in Cavalli's footsteps teaming flares and denim with checkered shirts, and maybe even a pair of fringed boots for the full on folk look.