BCBG Maxazria S/S 2013 show report

As the models walked down the BCBG Maxazria catwalk, we saw leather harnesses on light, flowy fabrics. This contrast works really well especially for a S/S collection as light leather seems to be a huge hit. For instance, here we see a light, leather cape jacket paired with sheer lace, another trend that's bound to big next year.

Blacks, nudes and whites were the main colours of the show and although these shades don't exactly pop, they fit BCBG really well and I would say the collection was pretty elegant. 

Structured and refined are words I would use to describe this collection as we see every look polished off with bold shapes and cut-outs. 

I'm not too sure about the weird ankle pieces though...

Large, statement envelope clutches were seen on the runway which I LOVE and I'm so relieved that they will still be staple fashion items.

Lastly, as we look at the necklines of the dresses, I notice that there are plunging looks with a covered-up twist, which I admire. The look above has a lace insert which is sexy but still classy. "I don't think you need to show a lot of skin to be sexy", says the designer herself and I couldn't agree more with this collection as S/S is the time you would expect to see the most flesh but this could change it all. 

(Images courtesy of style.com)

Virtual Runways- Is this the future of fashion?

During my last post, I briefly reviewed See By Chloé's S/S 2013 collection and it got me thinking about the use of virtual runways...

I think I understand why designers like Ralph Lauren and Dolce and Gabanna are opting for a virtual runway experience, yet for those who are invited to view these screenings, I don't think anyone can say it's the same as getting the atmosphere of being next to the models walking down a runway right in front of your eyes.

Nevertheless, it does give designers the option to live-stream the shows to the public, thus allowing them to collect thousands of viewers onto their websites and social media pages which is profitably viable. Viewers could share the runway looks on Facebook, tweet their opinions, pin their favourite looks. The spread of information just increases and increases and the brand is out there everywhere. 

Many are also drawn to purchase runway looks directly on the sites as options are given for the viewers to purchase straight after or whilst the show is aired. This is a great marketing strategy in itself. Convergence of new media technology has made the purchase and transaction of exclusively released pieces so incredibly easy, it'd be hard for fashion devotees to think about resisting.

In 2009, David Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren's marketing chief told Time: "The cost of a fashion show has become prohibitive, and because of the economy, fewer members of the press and buyers are making the trip to New York to see the show." 

Naturally, designers are going to be saving a hell of a lot of money if they choose to use e-media to debut their collections but for some shows, I think we need to keep the original format. I mean, I could never see designers like Chanel doing anything like this and I think it should stay that way. After all, we need the sensational locations and the details of everything, including who's there and who's not!

Will we be seeing more virtual runways? 

See By Chloé S/S 2013 Show Report

See By Chloé has shown its S/S 2013 collection down a runway, but via a virtual runway experience as opposed to a traditional show with the fuss of who's in the first row or second. Some love this, some hate it.

I think this collection is pretty much perfect. The airy fabrics, the playful shades of orange, fuchsia, red and blue makes the collection vibrant and just right for next year's season.

The looks were certainly effortless but chic. One of my favourite looks would have to be this gorgeous jumpsuit, the ruching details in the middle and the spin on the halter neck makes this jumpsuit so flattering.

Oscar de la Renta wins Lifetime Achievement Award

The Couture Council has given Oscar de la Renta a Lifetime Achievement Award for all his effort and designs throughout the years. 

His designs "have been to more award shows than Meryl Streep", said Michael Bloomberg, New York's mayor. 

Oscar de la Renta poses with Anna Wintour, DVF and Sarah Jessica Parker, some of his biggest supporters.

I think this is definitely an deserved award, Oscar de la Renta has produced some of the world's most highly anticipated looks for a huge list of famous clients. 

Recently, I got my hands on Us Vogue's September issue from the cute, new  Condé Nast Worldwide News shop in London's Oxford Street, which by the way was packed on Fashion's Night Out but well worth it. Anyway, The Oscar de la Renta advert was beyond stunning:

(Images courtesy of: REX and Just Jared)

Somerset by Alice Temperley for John Lewis

As I was flicking through the pages of September's Vogue issue, I was drawn to a British designer named Alice Temperley and her new collection for John Lewis. Why did I like it so much? I would wear almost everything I saw.

The "Desk to Dinner" look from the lookbook- elegant, chic and affordable. Shift dress- £160.00, Belt- £80.00, Court Shoes- £140.00

The "Career Girl" look from the lookbook- Smart, sexy and sophisticated. Insert jumper- £75.00, Belt-£75.00, Court shoes- as before, Handbag- £295.00, Pencil Skirt- £199.00



Key Picks:

Cape coat- £299.00

Jumpsuit- £140.00

Silk frill blouse- £79.00

Cardigan- £89.00

Christian Louboutin wins court case against YSL

Today, Christian Louboutin has finally won his court case against Yves Saint Laurent for selling shoes with all-red soles as they were copying the designer's signature look.

With support from Tiffany & Co, Louboutin's case was eventually given the respect it deserved as Tiffany filed a brief that said a colour can be trademarked and shouldn't be allowed to be copied (like their famous blue boxes).

The designer is now able to trademark the red soles except if the shoe is fully red... strange right?

Anna Dello Russo for H&M

H&M has seen some spectacular designer collaborations recently including Versace, Marni and Margiela, but the last to join that list is none other than Anna Dello Russo.

As editor and creative consultant for Vogue Japan, Russo has a very distinctive style. She's certainly not afraid to make a statement and with her line for H&M coming out next month, I can't wait to see what she'll bring to the table. 

                                                                 "Fashion Shower"

Her line isn't a clothing rage, however, it's an accessory line, and rightly so. H&M's press release states that "the collection features jewelry, sunglasses, shoes, bags and a trolley allowing H&M customers uniqueness at an affordable price." 

From what I've seen far, I am loving the products, especially the shades of rich gold and turquoise blue that have been chosen.