fashion week

Things I Love to Geek out Over

21 December 2015


I think in their own right, everyone has nerd moments about certain things. Whether it's all out fangirling or simply an inner squeal, it's always exciting.

Designer Crush: Prada

7 August 2015

Milan is the city sat right at the top of my travel list, one of the main reasons being my admiration for Prada. The luxurious fashion house was founded in 1913 has continued to dominate without losing an ounce of originality ever since. Whether it's releasing mobile phones, perfumes or luxury leather products; Prada always seems to be one step ahead in the industry. Their recent AW15-16 ready-to-wear show had become one of my favourites while scouting trends for the youthful vibe without straying from the brand's stylish reputation. Check it out below:
The classic Italian label not only stocks my favourite bags (the Saffiano leather totes), but is also responsible for some of my most cherished
catwalk looks. From their classic SS06 collections, which was crisp, clean and simple to their stunningly elegant AW13-14 ready-to-wearlooks from the runway. Prada has become an international label known for it's precise design for both men and women and deluxe prominence.
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Magazines I Can't Live Without

24 April 2015

Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
Fashion magazines are publications I have collected from the age of 11. While going through my "I want to be a fashion designer" phase, I would spend hours flicking through and taking in the creations of other masters of flair and elegance. This obsession quickly excelled into subscriptions and a real appreciation for the hard work that goes on behind each issue. Working at a magazine would be a dream job for me, as I'm not textiles queen but I know my fair share of the media industry having studied it for five years. I have quickly learnt what works and what doesn't on a cover and within magazines. However, nothing will stop be picking up a glossy style bible for my monthly intake.

HARPER'S BAZAAR (May 2015)
Out of the magazines I look forward to the most, Bazaar is the greatest. I love every aspect of this magazine along with it's writers and editors. One thing I really applaud is the editorial and graphic design detail that goes along with each article and page. It's not too full of advertisements which makes it easy to carry and read on the go. I tend to pick up Bazaar for my fashion reports, both their magazine and website are really useful to stay up to date on what's on the runway and in style. The photography in this magazine is also fabulous, alongside the brilliant titles and headlines featured throughout.
ELLE (May 2015)
I rely on this magazine for fashion stars and valuable topics without being flooded with and product placements. It's a superb magazine to sit curled up with in the evening with an enormous mug of hot chocolate and a pile of snacks. Elle has a really great section on beauty which is a great template for experimenting. They often have a variety of stylish topics from a large range of writers and journalists so it's very difficult to become bored while flicking through. 
COSMOPOLITAN (May 2015)
The one thing I adore about Cosmo, is that it features a little bit of everything. There is something in each issue that one person will love which I think is why it has such an enormous readership. It's a really girly magazine which I love and is great for relating to other women around the country as well as friends. The magazine is full of experiences and advice in addition to fashion and beauty tips which make it perfect for my train ride each morning. 
BRITISH VOGUE (May 2015)
Vogue is a fashion lover's guide to style. It's like a portfolio or scrapbook of anything worth remembering from the runway right in your hands. I first started buying this magazine for the amazing editorial and design which I idolised as a graphics student. Vogue already has such an elegant reputation, it was the first fashion magazine I came across. I also really appreciate the journalism skills featured within the magazine and often use it to help develop my own skills. The May issue also came with a More Dash Than Cash mini-mag (in association with Next) which is great for readers who tend to shop on more of a budget.
RED (May 2015)
Many people are quite surprised to find out I read Red magazine but I love the sophistication this publication brings. It's a classic women's magazine and features real in-depth articles about topics that are worth thinking about. It often features quite inspiring men and women which makes a fantastic night-time read. This magazine also features recipes that I enjoy attempting to complete. It comes with healthy options for during the day but also creative ideas to spice up the evenings.
TEEN VOGUE (April 2015)
Although I'm an older teen, I still really enjoy reading this magazine. It has a really youthful vibe (obviously) that I can still identify with. The cover stars are often teenagers too which makes them relatable to readers. The magazine covers issues that teens and young people face, from school or university to fashion and friends. Their website is also a marvellous tool in finding new bloggers to look out for or find inspiration from. Teen Vogue is one magazine designed for the younger generation that can also apply to the pre-adults too.

YouTubers I'm Obsessed With

7 April 2015

Eldwick, Bingley, Bingley, West Yorkshire BD16, UK
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I spent a little too much time on YouTube. Over the bank holiday weekend, I have been catching up on my subscriptions and a few creative minds I just can't live without. Their videos are entertaining and great to watch on the go,  and they have become the five YouTubers I'm obsessed with.
HeyClaire aka Claire Marshall
Claire is by far my favourite YouTuber. Her channel is a mix of fashion, beauty and vlogs, alongside the occasional food and lifestyle video. The first thing that drew me to Claire's channel was her phenomenal editing skills. With a lot of subscriptions, I find myself skipping through videos simply because I lose interest. However, when I watch a new HeyClaire video I enjoy every minute. From her New York Fashion Week and everyday life vlogs to the top tips on eyeliner and what beauty buys are worth a try. I also love Claire's personality, she's a very relatable person with a hilarious sense of humour which makes her really easy to watch. I adore her cat Bruce, and her incredible creative lifestyle.
Clothes Encounters aka Jenn Im
I discovered Jenn's channel after spotting her in one of Claire's videos and falling in love with her sense of style. The fashion videos on the Clothes Encounters channel range from outfits of the week to closet favourites and "what I would wear" tags. Jenn's fashion choices are a great inspiration and template for creating your own unique wardrobe. I was also really impressed with Jenn's description of clothing - not usually something most viewers point out. Her voice-overs are clear and descriptive which makes her videos so enjoyable to watch!
LustreLux aka Katy
If I'm ever in need of a new make-up look, this is the channel I head to. Katy's make-up routines are spotless and incredibly easy to follow. She recommends products that are genuine, and would be beneficial to her viewers, rather than just plugging anything that is offered. I learnt how to blend eyeshadow and create out-of-the-ordinary looks for each day. This channel is great if you're wanting to experiment with different looks, or even if you prefer to refine the eyeliner skills you have. It may take a while to master the perfect cat-eye Katy has, but with the help of her videos I'm sure I'll get there.
Shameless Maya aka Maya Washington
Maya's videos don't have a set theme, but I had to include her in my life simply because I adore her. She is a very inspiring person, and after watching a few of her videos, you feel motivated to get up and work hard for what you want or where you want to be. Her channel also includes fashion and make-up videos which are great for gaining that extra style stimulation. She has a series called Maya's World which features vlog-like videos and updates on her life which I love to indulge in!
Lauren Elizabeth
Lauren's videos have become a favourite of mine after recently subscribing to her channel. I came across Lauren on Twitter and quickly realised how entertaining she is. Her videos always leave me smiling are great to binge on if you're feeling down and need someone relatable to watch for a few hours. Lauren is very active on social media so you can never miss and update. Her twitter feed is constantly buzzing which is great from an almost-addict like me.

Gucci Says Bye-Bye to Bling

28 February 2015

Eldwick, Bingley, Bingley, West Yorkshire BD16, UK
Fashion week is known as the most glamorous in the industry. The front row demands the attention of showbiz bloggers while the fashion fanatics wait for the highly anticipated shows. Alessandro Michele’s first show as creative director of Gucci awaited the eager crowds and Italian fall women’s wear season. Notorious for being one the most glitzy fashion houses, Gucci surprised majority of the audience and journalists on Wednesday. Devotees of the brands are used to the clear and precise references to the high fashion, first class lifestyle. Diamond-encrusted knitwear and dressed down ball gowns were to be expected of the line, but as the show began it was clear this year was very different.

Rather than the ever-flowing champagne along the front row and unnecessary bright lights, the walls and floor were black, creating an intense atmosphere. The audience were reminded “The Contemporary is the Untimely.” by show notes that referenced philosophers Giorgio Agamben and Roland Barthes. There were less ball gowns and red carpet wears but more midi skirts with both men and women taking to the catwalk. Nonetheless, flowers and floral prints were still incorporated into many designs, subtly celebrating the history and glorious traditions of Gucci.
The show was full of vintage treasures, hurling the spectators into a world of flea markets with a date of couture. Librarian chic was a running trend throughout each look, highlighting brains over beauty. With a mix of oversized and nerdy eyeglasses, rings on every finger, knit beanies and turbans, floral hair combs on top of slippers and clogs lined in fur at the back; Mr. Michele bought a new twist to Italy.
Gucci brought back the greatness of a fashion show. Letting go of the superficial highlights and bringing the focus to the clothing. The shift from colossal logos and immature intentions is a positive one, with the big brands stepping up to emphasise the prominence of classic high fashion. 
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