Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Current Style Obsession- The Mad Hatter

I was slightly disappointed by the new Tim Burton film Alice in Wonderland.
Looking back I hyped it up so much in my head that the stakes for the film were unbearably high and could never really be met.
It had my favourite director, Tim Burton. It had my favourite actor, Johnny Depp. It had the amazing Danny Elfman creating the soundtrack. It is based on one of the best and the most imaginative children's books ever written. It had Matt Lucas, Stephen Fry and ALAN RICKMAN- Severus Snape is irresistible. And of course the magnificent Helena Bonham Carter and Anne Hathaway playing the two Queens.
So yeah basically an amazing cast. But it was also in 3D and a collaboration with Disney!
The possibilities for the films greatness were endless!
But it just didn't quite deliver, for me.

Sure on one hand it was a snapshot into Tim Burton's undeniably brilliant mind and a directorial wonder with some great performances. On the other the plot was lacking and not as engaging as it should have been seeing that Burton declared "he never felt a connection emotionally" with the book.

Good job then that the costumes were fantastic, they kept me distracted from the not-quite-right plot of Alice revisiting Wonderland.
Colleen Atwood is a genius. I found out through a quick IMDB search that she also did the costumes for Chicago and Nine (remember me raving about the costumes here?) and has won 2 Oscars, so there is no denying she is one talented lady!

I LOVED:
-Alice's little (or big depending on how much of the "drink me" potion she had taken) blue dresses
-The breathtaking corseted gowns in the wedding scene in the beginning, which looked as if they had just stepped out of a period drama
-The heart motif which was on every Queen of Hearts piece (Helena BC was of course, amazing in the role)

But above all else there was the Mad Hatter with his amazing liquorice allsorts bow tie, pocket watch, crazy hat and old beaten up patchwork suit. He look incredible.

Just don't mention that ridiculous Jaberwocky dance...




Beth Ruby xoxo

I try to be like Grace Kelly, but all her looks were too sad


Every time I open a magazine at the moment her beautiful face is staring back at me from one page or another. Enthralled, I look at the caption explaining that there is soon to be a new exhibit showing her enitre wardrobe at the V&A in London.

Hopefully I will be able to visit in the summer holidays (the exhibit is showing from the 17th of April to the 26th of September) and see her beautiful collection of Balanciaga gowns and YSL and Dior couture. But till then I will have to satifsy my current Grace Kelly obsession by looking at stunning photos of her (the above is a photograph from her in the 1956 film 'High Society')

There is no doubt she was an icon, famous for her calm and collected persona and pristine appearance. That she was well dressed goes without saying; she was never a hair out of place.
xoxo

Levi's revamps flagship store on Regent Street

Levi Strauss & Co announced the opening of its re-crafted Levi’s flagship store on Regent Street in London’s West End. A vibrant source of fashion trends and pioneering youth culture, London is the perfect gateway to a new experience of the Levi’s brand.

“Our new London flagship store is a milestone of Levi Strauss & Co.’s global retail strategy, designed to build the company’s brand-dedicated retail network throughout the world, with special emphasis on key fashion capitals such as London,” said Armin Broger, President of Levi Strauss & Co. Europe, Middle East and North Africa. “On Regent Street, Levi’s has created a place where craftsmanship and authenticity deliver the most genuine experience of the brand anywhere in Europe.”

The Levi’s Regent Street flagship store combines product breadth and depth, personalized denim expertise and a journey through the origins of denim to provide the ultimate jeans wear destination to millions of London shoppers. The store will be curated to feature the latest collections and provides consumers with a highly personalized way to shop by the latest fit or finish in the Inspection Room. It also houses up to 22 different washes of the original button fly jean in the glass-encased 501 Jeans Warehouse.

Product selections will be updated weekly to inspire new perspectives on iconic collections, whilst also showcasing innovative product for those on the hunt for the latest trends. For consumers seeking vintage pieces, the store features the exclusive Levi’s Vintage Clothing collection, offering consumers exact replicas of historic editions of 501 jeans. Key pieces from the brand’s 137-year history will also be on display, including an original pair of Levi’s 201 jeans from the 1920s, on loan from the Levi’s archives in San Francisco. 



Tuesday, March 30, 2010

What if nothing exists and we're all in somebody's dream?

A photo heavy post of all the things that are inspiring me at the moment.
I saw this idea on Johanna's amazing blog crookedzone and after reading it realised all the things I currently love are the complete opposite of hers.
She is inspired by Johnny Rotten, punk, heroin chic and giant Vivienne Westwood-like red coats at the moment whereas I am obsessed with fairy tales, bows, pastel colours, ballerinas and gowns.
This is what I love most about blogging; being inspired by others and realising what inspires you too.


















Danny Roberts illustration from The Dream Walking Society, Degas Ballerina painting, Christopher Kane SS2010 collection, The Almond Blossom Fairy illustration, Fifi Lapin, The Cherry Blossom Girl, Karlie Kloss in US Vogue, Chanel nail varnish from We Heart It, John Rocha collection, Chanel perfume photo from We Heart It, Chanel Iman editorial (anyone know where from? Pop?) Lovely photo from We Heart ItLara Stone, in W magazine I think, Another beauty from We Heart It, Sandra Suy illustration, Kate Moss drawing from Danny Roberts, The Chanel tutu designed by Karl, Alexa Chung (from Harpers Bazaar?) Shoes and cakes, my favourite things, from Vogue, And last two images from We Heart it (what would I do without this site, eh?)
Keep dreaming,
Beth Ruby xoxo

‘Magi-Fit’ new tummy control range for women

Leading home shopping company JD Williams have just launched a new tummy control range for women, with slimming trousers, jeans and skirts for plus size women up to a size 32.

Exclusive to JD Williams, the revolutionary Magi-Fit range is the latest in tummy control garment technology that features a hidden light control panel within clothes to hold in the tummy without being restrictive, discretely creating a sleeker and slimmer silhouette.

JD Williams loves plus size curves, but understands that women sometimes like to conceal those womanly lumps and bumps, which can prove difficult with tight fitting clothing. That's why the Magi-fit range has cleverly designed fashionable clothing with built in control pants to ensure women look and feel great every time.

Career minded women will love the formal Magi-fit trousers and tailored skirts in black, grey and navy blue that make women look fabulous in the office, while Magi-fit have also created more casual denim skirts and fashionable jeans for flattering everyday looks.

Designed with real women in mind, Magi-Fit clothes are available up to a size 32, with trousers and jeans in leg lengths 27in to 32in, looking after women of all shapes and sizes.




Monday, March 29, 2010

Military khakis become edgy ‘Green’ styles


EM & Co’s Fashion Installation portrayed a ‘Brave New World’ for the new decade, on March 18, 2010, with statuesque models and a custom-mixed music overlay of opera and punk, as it celebrated the re-launch of EM Reconstruct’s mini-collection showing how military khakis can be fashionably ‘green’, and Angela Dean’s ready-to-wear collection which proved that looking stylishly hot is not size-exclusive.

Angela Dean’s futuristic silver jersey dresses and vintage-inspired brocade coats are designed to flatter all body shapes and types. The store-exclusive EM Reconstruct label showed edgy military-inspired looks re-constructed out of recycled army clothing by EM and Krys-N-Jack.

“It’s a brave new world this new decade, fashion-wise,” says Eveline Morel, EM & Co founder. “Designers have to brave the economic situation, think outside the box, and deal with changing consumer trends, growing eco-consciousness, and a growing demand for cutting-edge fashion that fits women of all sizes and body types.”

The EM Reconstruct label represents the latest trend in eco-conscious fashion: up-cycling of garments. Combining edgy trend-setting style with eco-friendly practices, existing garments are re-fashioned and modified, sometimes beyond recognition, into new garments. Each garment is individually created, no two garments are ever identical. EM Reconstruct releases a themed mini-collection each quarter, created by EM and other local designers.

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Crystals By Carmen - most awesome creation

Talented singer Carmen Carter has captivated the 20 million viewers of ABC's hit Emmy-nominated TV show "Dancing with the Stars," not only with her dynamic voice but with her dazzling headpieces (also known as Nayaris). For more than nine seasons, "Dancing with the Stars" professional dancers, celebrities, fans, and friends have shown great interest in wearing the Carter's Nayaris. Due to such high interest, Carter created her patent-pending "Crystals By Carmen" collection of Nayaris, which are now available to everyone.

Although the "Crystals By Carmen" jewelry collection includes casual and exotic Nayaris, and jewelry for special occasions, her initial focus is on her bridal/formal collection, which includes several stunning pearl Nayaris, necklace sets and accessories which are embellished with Austrian or Swarovski crystals. Her formal line, which she includes in her bridal collection, is quite extensive, colorful and truly dazzling. Each Nayari is secured by Carmen's special patent-pending mounted hair clip that holds them in place, insuring a proper yet adjustable fit. Either collection is well suited for weddings, pageants, proms, quinceaneras and special occasions. Crystals By Carmen's jewelry collection of Nayaris, bridal/formal jewelry and accessories are affordable, ranging from $35 to $350. Many pieces are made with lead-free and nickel-free metals, Austrian or Swarovski crystals and beautiful stones.

Due to Carter's allergic reaction to the metals contained in the necklaces she once wore, and the fact that bindis weren't visible on camera, she began making her own Nayaris and wearing them on "Dancing with the Stars." It was not long before she became known as "the singer who wears the dazzling crystal headpieces," (aka Nayaris).

"Each Nayari is meant to reflect a woman's inner beauty and strength. It is to be worn with humility," says designer Carter. "I hope that every time a woman wears a Crystals By Carmen Nayari or accessory, she is reminded that she is the most awesome creation that has been placed on this earth and that she is worthy of acknowledgment." 






Friday, March 26, 2010

Cause I have other things to fill my time, you take what is yours and I'll take mine...

This is my first ever style post, I did it a while back when shooting mine and Xanthe's competition shoot but forgot to post it, so here it is now.
I am wearing a blazer from Topshop, skirt from H&M, bracelet (which you can partially see- its 2 gold leaves intwined) from H&M too and the top is an Alexander McQueen one which he guest designed to raise money for a childrens charity.
Its been just over a month since his death but it's still so shocking and I read earlier this week that his ashes were planned to be scattered as he wished in Skye in Scotland.
I wanted to take this opportunity to post a photo of one of my favourite runway looks from his Autumn Winter 2010 collection, which was obviously stunning.
The detailing was brilliant and the dresses are truly works of art; so ornate and regal.
They reminded me of Tilda Swinton as the Snow Queen in the Narnia films.
Beth xoxo

Simon Fashion brings high-energy shows in spring



This spring Simon Property Group Inc will bring high-energy runway shows to shoppers across the nation with Simon Fashion Now, a free, dynamic celebration of style at all price points at premier shopping centers.

Runway shows rivaling fashion industry shows in production values will take place at signature Simon properties in key markets. Yet unlike the industry shows that preview styles unavailable for several months, Simon Fashion Now makes the hottest men and women's fashions of the season accessible; every look from the runway can be immediately found at retailers within the mall. Thousands of visitors are expected to attend the free Simon Fashion Now runway shows and style events across the nation this spring. 

"This is the high-energy experience of international fashion shows without hopping a plane to New York or Milan. We're bringing the drama and excitement of haute runways shows to shoppers wanting great looks for the spring season that they can purchase later that day," said Shari Simon, senior vice president of corporate marketing. "Guests of Simon Fashion Now will see looks at all price points, so every shopper can find styles that work for them."

Simon is also upping the ante with its 2010 tour, bringing on style expert Bobbie Thomas to offer Simon Fashion Now attendees at certain stops inspiration and advice. Currently, millions of people wake up to catch Bobbie on NBC's "Today Show," where she serves as style editor. Bobbie's national column "The Buzz," featured in In Touch magazine, highlights Hollywood's hottest fashion and beauty must-haves. Bobbie was also the co-host of the Style Network's "Fashion Police," and has acted as a trend maven for a variety of E! Entertainment specials, including the annual red-carpet Emmy, Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild and Academy Awards coverage.

"I love that Simon Fashion Now makes it easy for shoppers to check out gorgeous looks on the runway and instantly recreate them with their own flair by visiting retailers within the mall," said Simon Fashion Now style expert Bobbie Thomas. "I'm so excited to help shoppers select style choices that reflect their inner personality."

Retailers look forward to the dynamic exposure Simon Fashion Now provides, which creates buzz for new styles and spurs sales.





Thursday, March 25, 2010

Frederick’s Of Hollywood taps Whittmanhart Interactive



Award-winning digital shop WhittmanHart Interactive (WHi) has been retained by Frederick’s of Hollywood Inc a subsidiary of Frederick’s of Hollywood Group Inc to increase the iconic fashion company’s exposure to customers via a complete social media and online marketing campaign.

WHi, which specializes in persona-driven digital solutions, will focus on emerging platforms, mobile, community, and social media to maximize customer awareness of Frederick’s of Hollywood’s latest fashion trends and promotions. A key function of the digital campaign will be to expand the base of customers visiting Frederick’s of Hollywood’s e-commerce site.

Since the agency recently began work for the company, Frederick's has already generated a 4% sales lift through their website. The results are directly attributable to WHi’s initial social campaign that far exceeded expectations, according to Frederick's of Hollywood Group President, Linda LoRe.

“WhittmanHart’s full suite of digital marketing services connects us with our consumers in a more personalized environment,” added LoRe. “Also, the market data that WhittmanHart collects will quickly alert us to changes in our customers’ desires and the latest fashion trends. It’s an exciting time for our brand as we continue to grow with the enthusiastic support of a new generation of sexy women.”




Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Let the T-shirt speak your Personality

T-shirts are trendy, easy to wear and no fuss ensemble. How about personalizing it a bit further to reflect ones own personality?

A pair of jeans with a well fitting T-shirt is the most preferable modern day uniform for both men and women. This costume is worn in both social occasions casual weekends, and is also considered trendy for ones night outside. To make the wearer stand out of the crowd with this common attire, a bit of creativity and extra flair is required. This will make a versatile addition to the wardrobe while keeping with the trend. T-shirts can be easily worn with designer items also giving an effortlessly cool look. Anything like ripped jeans to diamonds can be worn with a T-shirt.

Seamless & Collarless T-shirts:

Adding ones own personality with the T-shirts will add a fresh edge to the wearers look. Many teen idols are now choosing to customize their T-shirts with an untailored look. These apparels are either without a collar or with a short bottom. Fashion boutiques, and manufacturers are catching on with this trend and are now coming up with apparels made from light fabrics, and unfinished seams.
Art of Customizing T-shirts:

Manufacturers are now making T-shirts customizing to the individual preferences of the wearer. Britney Spears is currently making a fashion statement by adding her words on her T-shirt. These apparels are designed taking into consideration, the body structure of the wearer. A bit costly though, this apparel is very popular among celebrities.

T-shirts with DNA:

An innovative clothing line is introduced using the DNA strand line. The individuals own genetic code is used to create and personalize this apparel. The individuals DNA is selected from his saliva, and a small segment of DNA is magnified. This DNA is then run through a gel to make it visible. The image is made bigger and little imperfections are removed. This is later printed on the T-shirt.





References:

1.       http://www.askmen.com

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Mishka signs on as face of ECO'Neill Men's Collection

O'Neill leading the way in surf products and apparel since 1952, announced the launch of ECO'Neill, an innovative collection of sustainable, eco-friendly designs that aim to support the preservation of the environment for generations to come. Helping to kick off the launch is newest member of the O'Neill family, soulful roots-reggae artist and waterman, Mishka, as he promotes his latest album release "Talk About" on actor Matthew McConaughey's j.k. livin records. Mishka will be giving audiences a preview of the collection during his album tour starting this week, and will be contributing to the creative process and design of upcoming ECO'Neill styles. Later this year, he will be featured in related advertising, POP, mobile marketing and social media efforts from O'Neill to support the introduction of ECO'Neill t-shirts, tanks, beanies and boardshorts hitting stores next Spring.

"Mishka adds a whole new dynamic and direction to O'Neill," said Toby Bost, CEO of O'Neill Clothing. "Growing up a waterman and having an appreciation for the ocean and earth are attributes that make him a natural fit for us. We're looking forward to incorporating his music, unique spirit and creativity into the ECO'Neill line."

"We're excited about offering environmentally friendly O'Neill product under the ECO'Neill label," added O'Neill men's VP of Design, Ryan Rush. "Our ultimate goal is to increase the amount of sustainable manufacturing practices companywide."

ECO'Neill's Spring 2011 collection includes basic tees, tanks and beanies made from 100% organic cotton, and novelty tees and tanks in 100% organic cotton slub jersey. Boardshort fabrics will be made from recycled plastic bottles.





Monday, March 22, 2010

Spanx Shapewear Is the Right Choice for Every Woman

When it comes to choosing the best for you in the undergarment wear and specially the body shaper then the Spanx is the name of the quality and the best designs and modern styles of the shape wear offered by them. The body shaper is the must to buy thing for women. it is not even good for the fat women but the women that have lose body curves and seeking to keep them self more attractive then they should chose the Spanx Shapewear. The body shapers are good to wear under your dress it will cover your skin slightly and enable you to look slimmer and sexy.

There are so many brands that gives you glossy and charming look of the product and claim so much about the product that this will give you such and such benefits and the buyer became double minded that what to buy or what to not. For solving this problem there are many for the companies that offer some money back guarantee program which also fails because you have to pay for the shipment cost. And sometimes you found everything so miserable that you wont be able to find the correct and right path for making the decision. The right thing for you is to buy always the right and the authentic brand like Spanx that gives you not only product specification online and through fax and email but also you would be able to see the catalogue and the design and the styles that are being offered.

It is not easy for every woman to remain in the perfect shape and size and keeping your body tone needs so many efforts to bring in the new light or charming on your self. But this has became quite easy for every women to remain in the good shape at least when you are going to any party or going for celebration. The best thing that you put to make your body properly bonded in dress in the Spanx Shapewear. I thing that there is endless list of citing the all the advantages of the Spanx Shapewear. 





Sunday, March 21, 2010

Purple Haze






This gorgeous photoshoot from Marie Claire, based around my favourite colour perfectly evokes Spring, (which officially start tomorrow) with the blossom, the sunshine and the styling.

What are you most looking forward to about Spring?
Mine has to be my birthday, the 15th of May- don't forget!

Oh and here are some quick updates:
-I HAVE A TUMBLR! Check it out here
and I intend to fill it with lots of pretty photographs.
-I have a new post up on Velvet (the trend that is dividing opinion, similarly to Simon Cowell and Marmite it seems you either love it or you hate it)

-And finally another guest post up on the Shopaholic Blog on Lace (which admittedly can be a hard trend to pull off)

Hope you all have had a great weekend,

Beth Ruby xoxo

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Fossil launches its all new Leather collection


Stylish, Aristocratic, Classy, Trendy and Durable – Fossil’s leather collection will prove to be an absolute delight for all the fashion mongers out there.

This summer, the brand has in the offering an all new range of exciting accessories for both men & women.

Travel Bags: Travel in style…
Perfect for an official day or a weekend break, these travel bags from Fossil are Stylish yet trendy. Made from fine genuine leather these Fossil travel kits comprise of Duffels, Messengers and Shave kit.

The Jackson EW Messenger is a modern alternative to the older generation office briefcase. Made from fine genuine leather, it has beautiful glazed and antiqued hardware which are specifically designed to conveniently carry laptops, important documents, and other daily essentials.

This leatherwear is perfect to be carried everywhere!These are available across all leading departmental stores.

Ladies Leather accessories:
Classic yet contemporary, Simple yet detailed. The concept of modern vintage design represents the defining aesthetics for all the Fossil leather products for women.

Belts:
Fossil ladies belts are distinct because of their causal construction and authenticity. In its purest form, it’s a mixture of the best of what’s old and what’s new. Designed with modern styling and made of smooth genuine leather, the array of belts feature silver-tone buckle with embossed logo plate, metallic detailed patchwork with floral-shaped studs and a variety of piece-y patchwork of summer colors.These belts are available across all leading departmental stores.




Friday, March 19, 2010

Fati Asibelua debuts Momo’s A/W and Fall collection

Despite a freezing Paris night, Fati Asibelua, the creative talent behind Momo burned clear and bright with the presentation of Momo’s A/W 2010 /11 Fall Collection. One of Africa’s ‘grands talents de la mode’, Asibelua’s collection was enthusiastically received by a large crowd of press, buyers and fashionistas as part of Arise L’Afrique on Friday, inside the Four Seasons Hotel George V, 5th of March, 2010.

“I have always had a passion for opulent fabrics. For this collection, I have given a modern interpretation of a traditional African print with a very luxe result,” said Asibelua.

Fati Asibelua’s capsule collection consists of sophisticated dresses, speaking directly to the elegant, refined woman who appreciates fine quality fabrics and finishing. Staying true to her basic design aesthetic, mixing African patterns with modern, contemporary shapes, the collection is an eclectic blend of traditional couture brocades and jacquards in black and navy, highlighted by metallic threading and a splash of pink.

The shapes are bold in graphic drapes with sharp silhouettes, while the finishings are delicate sheer organza linings and silk georgette bindings. Paris Fashion Week audience favorites for this season’s must have sumptuous fur trend from Momo were the plush fox fur coat with leopard spots or the mink chubby with grommets.




Thursday, March 18, 2010

Current Style Inspiration- Pile on the jewellery

There is the famous fashion quote from Coco Chanel, "When accessorizing always take off the last thing you put on" as well as the timeless dictum "less is more."
But my current style inspiration are people who are confident and clever enough to ignore these and do their own thing. So layer up loads of bracelets on one arm, put on all your rings or all your watches at once and wear them loud and proud.





1.Cobra Snake. 2. Unknown source of an Olsen. 3. Unknown source. 4. From Rachel Zoe's book The A-Z Of Style. 5. Chanel lovliness from an unknown source. 6. Also unknown. If you know the source of any of these gorgeous photographs please comment or email me and let me know.

Beth xoxo