Friday, April 30, 2010

Taylor Swift becomes beautiful CoverGirl


Multi-platinum singer-songwriter Taylor Swift can now add COVERGIRL to her list of accomplishments. The 20-year-old, GRAMMY award-winning star has just finished shooting her first advertisements for the beauty giant, and will represent a new line of luxury products for the brand. The ads are scheduled to debut in January 2011.

With millions of fans worldwide, Swift has achieved remarkable success since first entering the country music scene in 2006. To date she has sold more than thirteen million albums and is the top-selling digital artist in music history. Her second album, Fearless, has spent more weeks in the top spot on Billboard’s all-genre Top 20 chart than any other album this decade. The GRAMMY Awards, the Country Music Association, the Academy of Country Music, and the American Music Awards all named Fearless the 2009 Country Album of the Year and, this year, the album won the all-genre GRAMMY Award for Album of the year. Last year, Swift earned the American Music Award for Artist of the Year and was the youngest artist ever to win the prestigious CMA Award for Entertainer of the Year.

“With her fresh beauty and authentic style, Taylor is a wonderful addition to the COVERGIRL family,” said Vince Hudson, General Manager, COVERGIRL Cosmetics. “Through all her success, Taylor remains a grounded and sincere woman who connects with fans everywhere just by being true to who she is. She personifies the iconic image of the brand while representing the next generation of both inner and outer beauty.”

“I am so excited to become the next COVERGIRL,” said Swift. “I have admired many of the COVERGIRLs since I was a little girl . . . great artists and actresses who are confident and still themselves. It’s like a dream come true to be a part of the future of COVERGIRL.” 

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

MarediModa/IntimodiModa coming soon


Maredimoda Intimodimoda, the international invitation-only show for beach and underwear fabrics Made in Europe, has officially announced the dates for its ninth edition, backed by results from the last fair, which showed an increase in visitors of more than 8% compared to 2008 (3,161 instead of 2,920), when 15 more exhibitors took part.

For over 100 exhibitors it was a chance to meet buyers from the 800 most qualified manufacturers in the world, representing 70 countries including Italy, France, Spain, Great Britain, the United States, Japan and Russia. These figures reward careful selection of exhibitors through meticulous internal procedures, the quality of the products on show, an unusual formula and the work environment at a fair which is univocally recognised as being the unique unrivalled benchmark for the highest representation of European collections for beach and underwear. This result, confirmed and emphasised by sample interviews carried out in the fair just a few hours before it closed, must also be seen as a fairly strong signal of confidence regarding the new-found enthusiasm of buyers in Cannes.

“The next edition of MarediModa/IntimodiModa”, stresses President Claudio Taiana, “will feature important evolution in terms of supply. In the first place, we will be dedicating more space and a new format to the trend forum, coming up with a big-impact truly innovative formula. We will be hosting and sponsoring an important international forum in the wake of last year’s success, we will give more visibility and value to the dedicated Outsourcing area that we were the first to introduce as a qualified model of alternative production. We are extremely pleased to see that our example has been followed by other international shows. We will be presenting activity category models regarding the real opportunities that outsourcers have if they no longer target the Far East, but look to North Africa or Eastern Europe: Maredimoda Intimodimoda will in fact be at the Salon De la Lingerie in Tunis in April with a view to further strengthening relationships with our North African partners. We will also see the second act of THE LINK, the world’s most ambitious talent scouting competition, involving the 100 most famous creativity schools in Europe. Its debut far exceeded expectations for the quality of the work presented by the students involved”.

Mention must also be made of the huge investment already made in terms of resources and energy into the underwear section, set to play a decisive role in the short term for the fair due also to its scheduling and strategic positioning. First-time previews of collections will be organised for top buyers and co-marketing with exhibitors will be fine-tuned. 

Monday, April 26, 2010

CK’s multi-brand runway show features 100 looks from fall


Calvin Klein Inc announced that the company’s Creative Directors – Francisco Costa (women’s Calvin Klein Collection), Italo Zucchelli (men’s Calvin Klein Collection), and Kevin Carrigan (ck Calvin Klein, Calvin Klein Jeans) – traveled to China to host a multi-brand runway show this past weekend. The event featured 100 looks from the Fall 2010 apparel and accessories lines on more than 70 models from around the world for a vip audience that spanned the worlds of fashion, art, sports, and media.

Joining Messrs. Costa, Zucchelli, and Carrigan, were Tom Murry, President & CEO, Calvin Klein, Inc., and many other notables including actress Eva Mendes, Hidetoshi Nakata, Lim Soo Jung, Liu Ye, Du Juan, Chinese pop band, SuperVC, Georgina Wilson, and Fernando Marcos “Borgy” Manotoc – all of whom were wardrobed by Calvin Klein Collection.

Those in attendance who were wardrobed by ck Calvin Klein included Taiwanese actor/model Ethan Ruan and supermodel Liu Wen, who closed the show and is currently featured in the ck Calvin Klein Spring 2010 advertising campaign.

Other notables in attendance included Lilin Wong, Zheng Gang, Veronica Chou, Jacqueline Zhao Jun, Jing Xing, Han Feng, Qiu Hao, Lu Kun, Bo Soong, B6, Zero Lin, Trevor Lai, Yang Yaqi, Samuel Bourdin, Hua Shen Xian, She Ya Jing, Yang Zi, Luo Yi, Sun Zhe, Su Mang, Grant Pearce, Christina Ong, Beng Seng Ong, and Formula One’s Bernie Ecclestone.

The event also marked the launch of Calvin Klein X Underwear, the latest offering to be introduced globally from Calvin Klein Underwear. Famed Japanese soccer star Hidetoshi Nakata – one of the four high-profile athletes and actors featured in the brands’ new global advertising campaign – hosted the official after-party, in a space adjacent to the presentation which had been transformed for the evening, while New York DJ Stretch Armstrong led the music for the evening.

The event featured a special installation with 20 live underwear models impactfully positioned throughout the industrial space on red scissor lifts, against a backdrop of oversized video screens playing the new Calvin Klein X Underwear video – also featuring American actors Kellan Lutz, Mehcad Brooks and Spanish tennis star, Fernando Verdasco.

The invitation-only event was held at Bund 1919, a landmark building and former textile factory, situated on the scenic Huangpu River in the Wu Song area of the Baoshan district in Shanghai.


Sunday, April 25, 2010

Star blogger Q&A- Stylestalker


I caught up with Rachel, half of the design duo 'Stylestalker' which she works on with her friend Sue-Ann to ask her 10 quick fashion and design related questions.
If you want to find out more about her check out her fantastic blog here and her shopping website here.
And if you want to take part in a Star Blogger Q&A just send me an email on amore-fashion@hotmail.co.uk and I will get back to you.
1. How did you both meet?

We met at uni, Susie was the best dressed girl in the course, so
naturally I sat next to her. We spent a lot more time skipping off to
the library to read Vogue Italia, than we did doing our assignments.

2. What inspired you on your latest collection "Midnight?"

Midnight was inspired by bringing the past and the future together. We
borrowed inspiration from the ‘supers’ era of the 90’s with it’s
strong shoulder silhouette, as well as the modern gothic revival and
combined it with the futuristic movement characterized by strong
angular shapes and delicate metallics.

3. Out of all your designs which one is your favourite?

The conspiracy dress is my all time favourite. (pictured above)

4. How do you usually come up with ideas together for designs?

First we search high and low for inspiration. We scour runway,
magazines, blogs, vintage stores, movies, museums… stalk down old
grannies on the street if they have an amazing hat…anything really.
We mash up all the information and spew out ideas, which we bounce off
each other. We both have to love every piece that makes it into the
collection.

5. What was the last thing you bought?

Topshop suede wedges (I'm in London right now so I can go straight to
the source woohoo!)

6. What is your favourite item in your wardrobe?

Aside from stylestalker- a vintage Jean Paul Gaultier laser cut trench
coat that I picked up on a recent trip to Hong Kong for only $50!

7. Who are your style icons?

Carey Mulligan, Georgia Jagger, Jen Brill, Lady Gaga

8. What are your latest favourite trends?

I love all trends. Sue-Ann and I will try anything

9. Who are your favourite designers?

Alaia, Pucci, Julian McDonald.

10. How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Too many to count!

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Teen fashion icon Miley Cyrus kicks off Habbo Runway


Habbo Hotel, the world's largest virtual community, has turned into a fashion house, as the Habbo Runway campaign launched with a search for the best Habbo Fashion Designer. The competition will be judged by multi-platinum Hollywood Records' recording artist and teen fashion icon Miley Cyrus, who kicked off the campaign.

Habbo Runway is a global fashion campaign, taking place in all 31 Habbo Hotel communities around the world. A celebration of teen creativity during the four weeks of fashion campaign, millions of Habbo users will be able to participate in various beauty and fashion-related activities. The campaign's highlight is the fashion designer competition, as all Habbo users around the world will have the chance to compete for the title of the Best Habbo Fashion Designer.

After local competition rounds and user voting, Habbo's fabulous celebrity judge, Miley Cyrus, will select and announce the global winner. In addition to fame and fortune in the virtual community, the winner will get his/her winning clothing designs produced and released as Habbo Hotel virtual clothing, available to millions of users around the world. 

More About  Miley Cyrus

Friday, April 23, 2010

Topshop High Summer with go-behind-the-scenes video camp




Topshop has launched its High Summer 2010 collections, just in time for the sunshine. To accompany the new collections, Topshop customers can access a behind-the-scenes video from the brand’s advertising campaign shoot which shows the newest trends for the summer season. Packed with styling ideas, it is the perfect way to get inspired and choose what to fill your wardrobe with.

Topshop’s in-house design team have the enviable task of finalising the trends the store will feature each season. They do this by trawling the globe in search of the most exciting new pieces, snapping great street style looks, and being inspired by all the cool places they visit. These ideas are then brainstormed, developed, and crystallised into the current Topshop High Summer collections.

For summer there are a lot of new looks to have fun with. Summer Fete offers a mix of sorbet shades, pretty prints and bleached-out denim, whilst in Festival Army, military-inspired pieces have a grungy edge. In Club Tropicana, body conscious summer dresses and hotpants in bold prints and colours look at home on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Finally, jersey maxi dresses, sleeveless denim gilets and towering platforms offer slick city chic in Body Armour. Topshop dresses continue to be key, particularly those featuring pretty sherbet colours and pastel ginghams. Shoes are also a big trend for SS10 with wedges and clogs taking centre stage.


Thursday, April 22, 2010

Oh Agyness what have you done?

I know that your fantastic peroxide blonde cropped 'do led to millions of wannabes copying you but that didnt mean that you had go and to shave it all off.


Henry why didnt you stop her from taking such drastic action?

Minimalism? Or just plain old boring?


A whole bunch of bloggers, fashion editors and street style photographers are going crazy for 'minimalism' at the moment.

And every time the word 'minimalism' is used I will bet you that it is followed by some remark about how amazing Celine is. That Phoebe Philo, who used to work at Chloe, and is now responsible for the french label is bringing basics back (with a ginormous price tag) and in particular is credited with that brown leather mini skirt from the Spring Summer 2010 collection.
White shirts, simple tees in neutral shades, nude work trousers and chunky shoes-blah blah blah I could go on- these are the Celine aesthetics in a nutshell.

But to me it all looks so darn boring.
Where is the colour? The prints and the florals? Its summer after all which means that it's time to experiment a bit more because you are not confined to knits and massive jumpers of winter.
I understand that she works in designing wardrobe staples, in particular for working women but do basics have to be so boring?
The brown leather skirt, made famous for being in the equally pared down and simple advertising campaign is nice and all, but nothing more than that.
For the amount of money that these plain clothes have you could buy something truly fabulous which could make you stand out from the crowd.
Why could you settle with the same old boring when you could have the brilliant and unique instead?
As ever let me know what you think,
Beth Ruby xoxo

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

The Most Famous Fragrance in the world is back again


Millions of Americans search far and wide each year for the perfect Mother’s Day gift, but many end up settling for the traditional flowers and a card that are soon forgotten. For those people looking this year to get their mother, grandmother, or wife a special gift that they’ll never forget, The Vermont Country Store offers hundreds of unique, practical, and hard-to-find items for such an occasion.

“As a family-owned business, we are proud to offer unique and nostalgic items that help people show their love and admiration for the moms in their lives,” says Cabot Orton, proprietor of The Vermont Country Store. “Most mothers will tell you that they just want to be appreciated. Giving her an unusual gift, small or large, that shows your thoughtfulness will reflect how much you care.”

Consumers can search through The Vermont Country Store’s catalogues and two store locations in Vermont to find the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. A few of these items include:

Evening in Paris – “The Most Famous Fragrance in the World” is back again, as evocative as ever. From the daring decade of the 1920s came the fragrance Soir de Paris, or Evening in Paris. By the 1950s, it was touted as “the fragrance more women wear than any other in the world,” yet by 1969 it had disappeared. Now, it’s back at The Vermont Country Store.

Teacup of the Month – New to The Vermont Country Store, this is the perfect gift for tea lovers and porcelain collectors: a hand-painted teacup and saucer featuring the birth flower for each month. Gold leaf embellishes the handle, saucer, and the month’s name scripted inside the cup. Customers can purchase a single cup, all 12 at once, or have a cup delivered each month.


Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Mad Men

I love Mad Men.
Set in 1960s New York, the television drama series follows Don Draper, the "biggest ad man in the business" and the ultimate anti-hero as he works in a competitive advertising agency on Madison Avenue.
It is superbly directed and every single frame is in itself a stunning photograph.
A snapshot from another era which I wish I could visit.
The brilliant series 3 is over, so I am pining after the next...


(Screenshots taken by me from the BBC i-player)














Joan Holloway (above- played by Christina Hendricks) is my absolute favourite character. She has killer lines and costumes. But it's also the fact that she hit her husband over the head with a vase of flowers when he was being rude. You don't get cooler than that.
Beth Ruby xoxo

Monday, April 19, 2010

Winners of L.e.i. Model Citizen Contest announced



L.e.i. is excited to introduce the three winners of the L.e.i. Model Citizen Contest who impressed the judges and public with their leadership, ambition, intelligence, energy and altruism. These three young woman best exemplify the tenets of L.e.i., which stands for "life, energy and intelligence." The winners were handpicked by a high-profile panel of judges, including notable names from the fashion industry such as Teen Vogue Editor in Chief Amy Astley, fashion designer Rachel Roy, fashion models Chanel Iman and Ali Michael, Allan Ellinger, Chairman of Fashion Delivers, and the voting public. L.e.i. is available exclusively at Walmart stores nationwide and on Walmart.com.

After receiving over 7,000 entries and 42,000 votes for the Model Citizen Contest, Alexandra Brooks, 18, from Sachse, TX has been named as the grand-prize winner. Jazzlyn Marae, 15, of Costa Mesa, CA is the second place winner and Amy Wilson, 19, from Ashland, OR is the third runner-up.

"I am honored to be chosen as the winner of this amazing 'L.e.i. Model Citizen' contest, which is acknowledging and rewarding young women not only for their inner and outer beauty, but also because of their life, energy and intelligence," said Alexandra Brooks.

Alexandra Brooks has logged more than 225 hours of community service projects, including organizing a community garden, volunteering in a homeless shelter and participating in Operation Christmas Child. She has also donated her time to build houses in Nicaragua, all while holding a 3.7 GPA and qualifying for the National Honor Society.

As the grand-prize winner, Alexandra Brooks will receive a $100,000 college scholarship, an appearance in L.e.i.'s Fall 2010 national advertising campaign, a fashion makeover and complete L.e.i. wardrobe, Teen Vogue internship and a trip to L.A. to attend Teen Vogue's "Young Hollywood" party.

Jazzlyn Marae volunteers in a soup kitchen for the homeless and has organized two benefits for a local children's hospital. Truly multi-talented, she wrote an original song for her submission video and holds a 3.7 GPA. Amy Wilson volunteers at homeless shelters and senior citizen organizations, while pursuing her pre-Med degree at Southern Oregon University.

Jazzlyn Marae and Amy Wilson will also appear in L.e.i.'s Fall 2010 national ad campaign and receive special prizing. In addition, the three winners will be flown to L.A. for L.e.i.'s photo shoot, which will be shot by famed photographer Peggy Sirota, on April 20th.

From February 1, 2010 to March 23, 2010, young women ages 15-21 from across the country entered the contest by visiting leimodelcitizen.com, or attending one of three L.e.i. Model Citizen local events in New York, Miami and Los Angeles. Participants were required to submit a video that showcased their "life, energy and intelligence."

As one of the judges, Chanel Iman said, "I am proud to be part of this contest where young girls are rewarded for their inner beauty and outer spirit. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the importance of leadership at a young age and encourages our youth to be socially conscious leaders and role models, and therefore the next L.e.i. model citizens."


Sunday, April 18, 2010

Miraclebody launches search for ‘Women Who Shape our Lives’


Miraclesuit, the #1 brand in designer fashion shaping swimwear, has launched a line of Miraclebody Jeans, with a patented tummy control feature and innovative shaping construction. In launching this new collection, Miraclebody announces a Search for “Women Who Shape our Lives.” Seeking entries from women who can nominate themselves or others, this contest will honor and share inspirational stories about remarkable women from all walks of life who have made a significant difference.

Miraclesuit swimwear has a 37 year heritage of shaping women. This brand has built its strong reputation by providing innovative fabrics and unique designs to contour, shape, slim and firm the body, giving women confidence in their brand promise to “Look 10 pounds lighter in 10 seconds”.

“We realized swimwear and jeans have a lot in common,” says Jay Feigenbaum, President of both Miraclesuit swimwear and Miraclebody Jeans.

“Both garments have become universal expressions of self-esteem and consumer research shows that proper fit and shaping are of utmost importance to the purchase process and satisfaction for both these categories,” comments Feigenbaum. “Our challenge was to take our expertise in fashion shaping for swimwear and apply and adapt the concepts for a premium denim line.” The collection has a super soft patented Miratex fabric with two times the amount of stretch as most premium denim, a patent-pending tummy control panel, and washes, stitching and design constructions engineered to enhance assets and hide figure flaws.

“At Miraclebody Jeans, we believe in the principle that you don’t have to be a size 0 to look and feel great in a pair of designer jeans. Our technology is designed to allow the wearer to look “10 pounds lighter in 10 seconds” just like in our swimwear, and still feel amazingly comfortable and confident.” Product is available in size 2-18, and will soon be available in sizes 18w to 22w.


Friday, April 16, 2010

Jablonski & Liu Wen - Estee Lauder's new faces


The Estée Lauder brand announced that it has signed two of fashion’s brightest runway and editorial stars as new global faces of Estée Lauder. French model Constance Jablonski and Chinese model Liu Wen will join Estée Lauder’s roster of global beauties – Hilary Rhoda, Carolyn Murphy, Elizabeth Hurley and Gwyneth Paltrow – and debut in its global advertising campaigns beginning June 2010.

The signing of Constance marks the first time Estée Lauder has signed a French model, and the signing of Liu Wen marks the first time the brand has signed a Chinese model. Over the years, models in Estée Lauder’s global campaigns have hailed from the U.S. (Karen Graham, Willow Bay, Carolyn Murphy, Gwyneth Paltrow, Hilary Rhoda), the U.K. (Elizabeth Hurley), Czech Republic (Paulina Porizkova), Poland (Anja Rubik) and Ethiopia (Liya Kebede).

“Estée Lauder has always searched for global beauties that define a generation,” said Aerin Lauder, Senior Vice President, Creative Director, Estée Lauder. “Constance and Liu Wen are the beauties of our time. Both models have quickly captured the attention of the fashion and beauty world.”

“We are thrilled to introduce Constance and Liu Wen to women around the world,” said Jane Hertzmark Hudis, Global Brand President, Estée Lauder. “Both models have the style and confidence that reflects Estée Lauder’s modern vision of global beauty.”

Constance moved to New York from Lille, France in September 2008, and has since become one of the most coveted faces in fashion, walking a total of 62 shows in New York, Milan and Paris for the Autumn/Winter 2010 season including Derek Lam, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Fendi, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga and Dries Van Noten and shooting editorials with the world’s top fashion photographers, including Steven Meisel, David Sims, Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, Mikael Jansson, Mario Sorrenti, Craig McDean and Patrick Demarchelier. Constance recently appeared on the cover of Chinese Vogue and in editorials in the American, British, French and Italian editions of Vogue.

Liu Wen hails from Beijing, China, and is China’s brightest fashion star. First establishing her career with the Chinese editions of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, she broke onto the international stage in Paris on the Spring 2008 runways of Chanel and Jean Paul Gaultier. Since then, Liu Wen has become a fixture on the runways of New York, Milan and Paris, walking a total of 49 shows for the Autumn/Winter 2010 season including Rodarte, Derek Lam, Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang, Fendi, Bottega Veneta, Salvatore Ferragamo and Balenciaga and shooting editorials with the world’s top fashion photographers including Patrick Demarchelier, Mario Sorrenti, Terry Richardson and Dan Jackson.


Thursday, April 15, 2010

United Brands to develop artist Patrick Nagel collection



The Patrick Nagel Collection of Art, and Jennifer Dumas, the exclusive owner and curator of the Patrick Nagel Collection of Art, along with Character Vision and United Brands Worldwide, announced the establishment of the Patrick Nagel Jewelry, Luxury, and Fashion Accessories brand, inspired from the exclusive images and artwork of iconic artist Patrick Nagel.

“I am blessed to ha
ve intimately experienced the talents, love and genius of Patrick Nagel,” said Jennifer Dumas, owner and curator of the Patrick Nagel Collection of Art, and widow to Patrick Nagel. “I am especially pleased with this exciting new direction and with the wonderful opportunity to further share Pat’s legacy through this creative collaboration with United Brands."

“The American artist Patrick Nagel will be forever embedded into pop culture, and his amazing works are instantly recognized by consumers and art lovers worldwide,” said Lyle M. Rose, president of United Brands. “We are honored to work closely with Jennifer Dumas and her agents at Character Vision to reflect the essence and artistic genius of Patrick Nagel. Together, we plan to develop and market consumer products worldwide, utilizing the powerful intellectual property of Nagel’s exclusive images and artwork.”

Ken Abrams, CEO of Character Vision added, “We are excited to work with the experienced team at United Brands. Together we look forward to expanding the phenomenon that was, and is, Patrick Nagel.” 





Read More.. 

More Fashion News - USA  

More Fashion Brand Collection Label News - USA

Monday, April 12, 2010

Bridal beauty is about more than just the bride






This year, every esteemed presenter and all the talented performers at the 82nd Academy Awards ceremony received a colorful, reusable bag made of DuPont Tyvek, courtesy of Earthwise Bag Company, Inc.

Earthwise, the largest reusable bag distributor in the U.S. was asked to provide a polypropylene bag to hold give-away items, and they decided to include a complimentary, colorful Tyvek reusable bag for each presenter and performer.

“We thought we would bring a little ‘green’ to the red carpet by sharing our new fashion bags made of DuPont Tyvek,” said Stan Joffe, president, Earthwise Bag Company. “We’ve had great response to these lightweight tote bags that are strong, portable, reusable and machine washable. And, when customers decide to dispose of them, they’re completely recyclable. There is no other reusable bag material that has all of these features, and we’re excited to include Tyvek in our product line.”
 

Saturday, April 10, 2010

At least it's out in the open now: Christopher Kane took inspiration from my primary school uniform.

Fashion moves so fast, it's hard to keep up seeing as the world is always a season ahead.
But now it's finally Spring, I feel like I can appreciate the Spring Summer 2010 collections a lot more; I need inspiration for a new season wardrobe and as the sun is shining it no longer seems ridiculous to be looking at summer dresses when it snowing outside, in the middle of winter.

Especially the Christopher Kane collection. He is my favourite designer, so I was always going to fall in love with it, but I mean really, it's beautiful isn't it?
Vogue called his collection "pretty yet perverted" and you only need to take one look at the collection to realise this is spot on.
The checkered picnic table style pastel dresses conjured up an image of a sickly sweet school girl, like Anne of Green Gables, striding across the fields. But then you notice the flashes of bare flesh through the panelling and the thigh high slits and realise that this Anne may have a sexy side.

My favourite look was this yellow checkered dress with the navy cardigan (above)
It conjures up images of my childhood, as these were the colours of my school uniform at primary school.
It's actually pretty similar to the little gingham summer dresses and the navy woolly jumpers we used to wear- except of course I didn't have the lovely strappy heels.
So take that Kane, I was one step ahead of you!
Just call me your new fashion muse and I won't sue you for copyright.
Deal?

Beth Ruby xoxo

Designer Noëlle Adam unveils her debut collection


Spring is finally here, and the newest designer Noëlle Adam has just arrived! Winner of the Emerging Talent Competition at the 2009 Dubai Fashion Week, Noëlle Adam has launched her stunning new collection for Spring/Summer 2010; focusing on limited edition styles of Maxi dresses, Party & Shirt dresses alongside her unique handmade statement necklaces.

The Noëlle Adam Ready-to-wear Collection can be bought exclusively online, offering the highest standards in design quality and latest catwalk trends; delivered to your door at a click of the mouse. The collection has been created to offer a stylish and unique choice of occasion wear at a reasonable price point.

The Ready-to-wear collection offers interpretations of bohemian and romantic trends including tribal prints, bold colour, and elegant butterfly motifs, as well as fairytale-inspired beaded necklines. The signature range of Classic Maxi Dresses, offer a unique ease of fitting and flattering fluid lines in cotton poplin and cotton jersey; whilst the range of Party Dresses in silks, satins, gold lace and faux fur offer a touch of luxurious glamour.

The Halter Maxi Dress adds to the transitional collection, taking you from day into evening wear. The fabulous Halter Black Gold, is ‘the’ summer party essential this season, and can be bought online alongside Noëlle’s recommended statement necklaces for a complete styling concept. This year Noëlle will also have a full variety of marvellous Shirt Dresses in floral prints and a unique Lace & Bead Necklace series.

For those who want to make a serious purchase this summer, without the serious price tag, Noëlle Adam provides the latest on-trend quality designs, at a snippet of the designer cost! Whether is it is a summer soiree, a day at the races, a wedding or evening cocktails on the beach, Noëlle Adam has a dress to suit every occasion, and is one of the most exciting design talents to emerge in the last year!

Noëlle Adam’s online boutique (noelleadam.com) offers the complete user-friendly, chic and efficient purchasing experience, including a unique measuring guide to help find the perfect size. Each dress has a made-to-measure quality, with an easy to follow measurement guide, enabling customers to shop by individual body shape, size and proportion whilst providing international comparisons. The site also features inspired sketches, a video of her Catwalk Show at Dubai Fashion Week 2009, and style advice from “Noelle’s Inspiration”, offering advice on trends and accessory suggestions.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Chic shores of Ibiza trends for FC women

French Connection has revealed its new collection for women, High Summer 2010.

The new summer fashion collection takes inspiration from the chic shores of Ibiza where pared back bohemian style mixes with luxurious glamour. 

Maxi dresses are given tribal detailing through embellishment and bold jungle and Aztec prints in floaty jersey or fly away chiffon. Jumpsuits are beaded at the waist in crepe or in silk with a belted industrial cut in soft turquoise.

Shorts follow the utility trend in khaki tones with gold buttons and teamed with crisp white embroidery anglaise smock tops and tie front shirts. Denim is updated with the hero, a washed denim dress, given new rope detailing with a belted waist with cross over straps. 

Tie dye makes a comeback on the draped jerseys, vests, scarves and swimwear featured in the collection. Kitsch printed oversized vests and t-shirts feature iconic summer prints including sunglasses, ice-creams and ’wish you were here’ slogans.

Fairytale maxi dresses with frill detail and embellished off the shoulder silk dresses give the summer a luxurious vibe with the delicate beaded playsuit being key.
 



"If you never do anything, you never become anyone."

As you already know, I am a firm believer that you should always read the book before seeing the film, so I read Lynne Barbers memoirs before seeing the multi award winning film. I devoured the book in one day and the film is now in my top 10 favourite films list. They are both simply brilliant.
Carey Mulligan and Peter Sarsgaard

Nick Hornby did an amazing job turning the memoirs into a screen play and transforming Lynne into the wonderful character Jenny, who Carey Mulligan plays so convincingly you cannot help but fall in love with her when you watch it.
It's the story of the clever school girl Jenny and her dilemma as she has to choose between going to Oxford University or marrying a charismatic older man, who whisks her away to Paris and introduces her to his glamorous friends. But he is not all as he seems...

Rosamund Pike and Dominic Cooper

I cried and laughed out loud at both the book and the film.
They made me want to visit Paris and go to fun parties and meet beautiful people and wear gorgeous clothes (the costumes in the film are breathtaking)
But of course even more than that watching and reading An Education just backs up my ambition to go to Oxford University, study English Literature and ride around on a beautiful bicycle- preferably this Pashley.
Clearly I cannot rave about how much I love the film enough, so go and read it and see it ok? Only then you will understand how much I love it.
Also Carey Mulligan wore this amazing Prada dress to the Oscars. Check out the little knives and forks and scissors! Unbelievably awesome, right?
Oh and did you know that she's going out with Shia Labeouf? She is one lucky lady.
Beth Ruby xoxo

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Lands’ End Swimwear: its suits you

Whether it’s a revolution or simply a revelation, women have discovered they are wearing the wrong sizes when it comes to bras, jeans and now, swimsuits. In fact, according to a recent survey of more than 1,000 women conducted by Lands’ End, eight out of ten surveyed confessed to having worn the wrong size swimsuit. They also believe other women wear the wrong size suit as well; 71 percent believe the majority of women wear the wrong size suit. This could explain why respondents have experienced swimsuit-sizing mishaps such as saggy bottoms (65 percent), cleavage overflow (58 percent), behind busting out/seat creep (56 percent) and muffin top (54 percent).

“With so many advances in swimsuit design, high-performance fabrics and a full range of available sizes, there is no reason why any woman should experience muffin top or saggy bottoms,” said Suzanne Bryant, vice president of design, Lands’ End. “At Lands’ End, we know it’s critically important to have a proper-fitting swimsuit so women can feel and look great on the beach or by the pool. As a result, we offer hundreds of styles that provide solutions for every shape with design details to fit and flatter. And, we offer a full range of sizes including regular, petite (short) and long (tall) torso, mastectomy, D-DDD cup sizes and plus sizes.”

Sizing Up Swimwear Options at Lands’ End
The survey also found more than half of respondents (54 percent) purchase swim bottoms in a size that is too big hoping for more coverage while a third (34 percent) have squeezed into a suit that is too small because a larger size was not available. It’s not surprising that women are compromising when it comes to finding their true size since an overwhelming majority of survey respondents (79 percent) stated they fell in love with a swimsuit style, but it was not available in their size.

“Women are not one size fits all especially when it comes to swimwear,” stated Bryant. “At Lands’ End, we offer a large variety of sizes in every swimsuit style and this year we have more options than ever before. In addition, we offer several collections of swim separates to help women mix and match sizes and styles.”




Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Yoko Okuda receives top honors at FIT-SDI competition


Mismatched plaids, tweeds with layered ruffles and delicate chiffons were just a few of the elements featured at "City Meets Country, Scotland Means Style," a competition held by Scottish Development International (SDI) for Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) fashion and interior design students. Yoko Okuda, a fashion design major, and Kecia Mortensen, an interior design major, received top honors for their innovative use of fabric, colors and textures inspired by Scotland's rich history, landscapes and textiles.

The winners were announced at a reception held at The Norwood Club in New York City. At the reception were Scotland's Minister for Culture and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop, Scottish Designer to Royalty Sandra Murray MBE, and FIT student designers. Garments and interiors illustrations were on display throughout the venue for guests to view.

The competition recognized a new generation of designers who tackled the challenge of creating fashion forward garments and interior designs by marrying traditional and contemporary Scottish style. Fashion design students were asked to create garments for evening, day and sports. Interior design students were asked to create a penthouse suite for an Edinburgh luxury hotel.

"Scottish textiles have been the foundation for fashion and apparel for decades," said Marilyn Hefferen, contest coordinator and assistant professor in FIT's Department of Fashion Design. "This was an opportunity for our students to work with some of the finest textiles in the world from Scotland's most prestigious brands."

Using textiles from Reid & Taylor, Johnstons, Lochcarron of Scotland, Calzeat & Co., Harris Tweed and Holland & Sherry, FIT students vied to win a $1,000 grand prize; a trip to Scotland for the fashion design winner; work placement at a New York City design firm for the interior design winner; and a spot on the Dress to Kilt runway. Runners-up and the recipient of the creativity award received prizes ranging from $500-$750. All designs will be on display in Scottish parliament this summer.

Fashion Design

• Yoko Okuda, Evening Wear
• Jusil Carroll, Evening Wear
• Carlynne Cutler, City Wear




Monday, April 5, 2010

Pantene in search for world's first reality hair star

Pantene, the iconic brand known for memorable advertising tag lines such as "don't hate me because I'm beautiful" and "hair so healthy it shines", launches the search for the world's first reality hair star. As part of the unprecedented marketing support for the brand's reinvention, Pantene will put their products to the ultimate test live in the world's first reality hair ad. The game-changing advertising will air on May 25, 2010 on multiple channels including a major national network, as part of one of the hottest shows of the season.

"Pantene is known for being at the forefront of hair care innovation and we'll be breaking new ground on May 25 when we air the world's first reality hair advertisement," said Craig Bahner, Vice President, North America Hair Care, Procter & Gamble. "Shooting a reality TV ad is the ultimate hair test, and we are confident that our products will pass the test in this one-of-a-kind project."

One woman will be selected from the online casting call to put Pantene to the test on live TV and will appear in the first reality national advertising spot alongside Pantene's current spokesperson, Stacy London. She will also win the "Be the Rock Star You Are" experience from Bret Michaels, which will include tickets to one of his concerts this summer, first class airfare, a ride in Michaels' tour bus, and backstage passes.




Sunday, April 4, 2010

Happy Easter Sunday Everyone :)

I am very happy right now eating chocolate eggs for breakfast, listening to Paulo Nutini on the radio and after I've watched Gossip Girl I'm going to go and visit my grandparents. Lovely day :)
What are you up to?
Beth Ruby xoxo

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Experts from hair & beauty industry together at Bride Show

As Carrie Bradshaw once pondered, “Could I be a Spring bride? A happy bride? A peek-a-boo bride?” But while most brides-to-be don’t have a team of Vogue stylists, editors and fashion designers to call upon for advice, The Bride Show Dubai is bringing fiancés face to face with some of the region’s hottest hair and make up stylists as well as fashion-forward image consultants.

The Bridal Lounge, a new feature to The Bride Show Dubai, the region’s most prestigious bridal and fashion event, will pull together experts from the hair and beauty industry such as MAC Cosmetics and l’Oréal Professionnel to offer advice, tips and ideas in an interactive, comfortable setting.

Throughout The Bride Show Dubai, running from 7 to 10 April 2010 in Halls 1, 2 and 3 of the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, senior make up artists from MAC will prepare the season’s latest bridal make up looks live before the audience, all the while explaining different techniques and how to re-create the effects at home. The MAC demonstrations will take place every evening of the show at 7:30pm.

Following the make up, stylists from Jamil Style, one of Dubai’s longest running hair salons, will use l’Oréal Professionnel products to pin hair into elaborate and beautiful creations perfect for a wedding day.




Friday, April 2, 2010

Dirt Bike Denim Collection from Wrangler

This season, Wrangler races ahead with a collection of rugged, sporty and spirited clothes inspired by motocross racing and the thrills and spills of dirt biking from all across the world. 
  
Mild distress denim gets roughed up with leather trims, contrasting details and elaborate back pockets. The jeans are washed down to give them a dirty vintage and greased look. Shirts make statements of their own with bold checks and metal detailing, with cuts and prints inspired by classic biker shirts.

And where would a biker be without a smoking hot woman by his side?

The Wrangler Spring Summer 2010 women’s line is here to heat up the engines with fitted stretch jeans in acid and vintage washes with embossing and embroidery, hot pants, knee length shorts, skirts and the all new Molly fit jeans that fit snugger than a pillion rider. 

Tops and tees are equally racy with the use of bright colours accentuated with lace, ruffles, braids, pin tucks and epaulettes. Fabrics are light. Cuts are flattering. And prints are bold. Off shoulder tees, spaghetti tops, racer back vests – they’re all on Team Wrangler now.




Thursday, April 1, 2010

Op Unveils 'Rock Your Shine' Campaign

Iconix Brand Group Inc unveiled its spring 2010 multi-media marketing campaign for its Op brand, which is titled "Rock Your Shine." The campaign stars actress Jessica Szohr of the CW's Gossip Girl, R&B singer Cassie, actors Dianna Agron and Cory Monteith of the Fox hit show Glee, actor Alex Meraz of The Twilight Saga:New Moon and Eclipse and actor Trevor Donovan of the CW's 90210. The national campaign will debut this spring in fashion, lifestyle and entertainment magazines such as Elle, Teen Vogue, Seventeen and Cosmopolitan, outdoor and online.

Jessica Szohr stated, "The latest trend for spring is shine and Op has it first. The clothes are so great; especially the amazing bikinis and shorts."

"The great thing about Op is that it is very accessible. You can grab it at Walmart. The looks are original and affordable," commented Cory Monteith.

The Op campaign was photographed at Universal Studios in California by lifestyle photographer Larry Bartholomew. The campaign creative features the cast of Op celebrities at a block party, hanging out in a hammock, barbequing and getting ready to go surfing. An element of shine is integrated into the print campaign with metallic paper and gold foil on the ads. 




Miu Miu SS 2010 collection


Ah the Miu Miu 2010 Spring Sumer collecion.
I will just begin by saying I loved it; it was without a doubt one of my favourite SS looks.

Miuccia Prada managed to combine innocence and raunchiness seamlessly as little cats, dogs and swallows leapt across her designs alongside nude female prints.
It was a creative mix of the sweet and the sexy with cut out panelling used against high neck lines with areoplane pointed collars. The long school girl plaits and playful chunky heels were perfect too and I love the ad campaign for the collection.
Keira Knightley looking stunning in one of the Miu Miu looks, complete with Miu Miu shoes and a Chanel bag. God, I would love to raid her wardrobe.


Beth Ruby xoxo