Showing posts with label Trends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Trends. Show all posts

Thursday, 3 October 2013

The shoes as a statement? Discuss...

These days its impossible to walk down the high street without being bombarded with the latest trends, fashions and 'must haves'. 

One thing I have noticed of late is the vast variety of 'Statement' shoes on the shelves. In my opinion they are no longer practical clothing to stop you getting your feet wet! They have become the central point of many fashion statements. For example, the world famous shoe designer Manolo Blahnik astounded his audience at his London Fashion Week presentation this year. 

The incredible array of colours and innovative designs twined with expert craftsmanship, culminates together to produce some of the most 'out there' shoes. Blahnik designs have graced the feet of many a celebs in the past, becoming a regular shoes choice for those such as Rihanna and Sarah Jessica Parker. Looking at the bright contrasting colours and bold graphic stitching, I have no doubt in saying these will be the next shoes joining many peoples collections.

However, if your anything like me you cant afford a pair of designer shoes for every day of the week. So here is a few brands that might be worth looking at....

1. Irregular Choice: 
IC was first born in 1999 with its first shop being opened in covent Garden by Designer and owner Dan Sullivan. Over the years the designs have got bigger, better,  and bolder. On todays selves you can find shoes ranging from 'Bashfull Brenda' heals to 'Fraggle' flats. If you are in need of a shoe to stand out from the crowd, IC is defiantly worth a look. And the guys shoes are awesome too! Seriously Gents, if you need to get the attention of a 'certain person', Irregular Choice is the way to do it!

2. Asos:
I was a bit dubious at first when told to check out the shoes on asos. I figured they would be just like any other big brand, but boy was I wrong. Asos have a huge range of boots, flats, heal, and everything in between. At very reasonable prices! And not only do they sell their own designs, but they also sell may different independent brands. My suggestion is if you're not too sure what you want, check out Asos. Its sure to give you loads of ideas.

And last but not least...

3. Primark!!!
I know, I actually said Primark! The thing is, if you are on a bit of an economy drive, but you need that killer set of ladies heels or lads loafers for a party everyone is going to, Primark aren't too bad!!! They will never be the comfiest pair of shoes you will own, but for all intent and purpose they do the job. I have found that Primark are copy cats with lower prices. They take big brand designs, make their own copy and sell them at a fraction of the price. They stock everything, and if you can put up with the mess and crowds you are bound to find something to finish off that awesome outfit.

I have given you a few options, but please don't take these as the only ones. There are loads of different independent shops that would appreciate your custom. So don't discard the idea of a shop you have never heard of, it may just stock the most amazing little secrets. Also the 'Shoe as a statement' thing is not set in stone, its just something that has been buzzing around for a while. If you're not into it, then don't panic. Maybe try a fabulous coat or a statement jumper to make your mark on your own fashion style. And most of all... Have fun with it, you never know you may just be starting the next trend!

JM
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Monday, 30 September 2013

The changing season... Does your style hit back or hibernate this autumn?

I can't speak for all when I say this, but I think the general consensus is, that summer came and went far too fast!

The english summer lingered slightly longer than usual but it still seems to have left us all feeling slightly disoriented. Now with the closing nights and the cooler day creeping in, I am personally at a lose as to what the wear! Do I stay with Vest tops and cardigans, and accept the fact that I might be slightly chilly. Or do I move onto the Skinny Jean, Granddad jumper and army bot combo? 

Looking through the fashion trends that exploded with full force out of the London Fashion Week 2013, I am still none the wiser! Light pink, Velvet, Leopard print, PVC, and Turtle Necks are just a few of the Autumn/Winter trend predictions. This small list alone intimidates me! I love keeping up with the latest fashions, but I feel that they are just thrown upon us without any instructions! Do we mix? Can we wear 'light pink' 'leopard print' 'Velvet'? Or is that too much? So here are my suggestions... 

Personally I am sticking to what I know, and keeping it simple. I like the idea of the light pink. It's a nice way of just splashing a fresh bit of summer back into your wardrobe, but don't go too bonkers with it. You may end you looking like a strawberry bonbon! The same stands for all the others really, 'tinting' your own style with high end fashion trends, is a great (and more affordable) way to keep you looking fresh and in style, without looking over the top and out of place. 

I do really love the turn of the season and the new possibilities it bring. I recently did a photo shoot with one of my favourite Autumn/Winter styles. To me there is nothing comfier than a good quality piece of knitwear. It's warm, practical, and just in case the sun decides to make a fleeting appliance, its easily layered with a summer vest top allowing for a quick wardrobe amendment. 
Matching this with a well fitted pair of skinny jeans you are well on your way to being the friend that everyone wants as their fashion stylist. This look can also be awesome for the stylish gent wanting to make an impact on a new season. I am absolutely in love with the new Jack Wills Knitwear 'Crew' range. Its simple, stylish, and easily dressed up or down for any occasion. Check it out here... 




The one thing I will say that completes any look, whether it's your old style with a new twist or a complete revamp... Confidence is the key. If you feel good, then you look good. It's not always up to the fashion bigwigs to label you lifestyle and fashion preferences. It's your life, your style... live it this Autumn. 

JM
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Images ©Jessica Morris ALL RIGHTS RESERVED