I love the lazy days between Christmas and New Year, it allows for reflection of the year just gone, and changes that are going to be made for the year ahead. As well as lots of TV viewing. After receiving the DVD The September Issue for Christmas from a fabulous friend of mine, I alongside another fabulous friend of mine, sat down to watch what can only be described as ‘the real devil wears Prada’. Basically the films synopsis is the making of Vogue, and fashion being a religion, therefore the DVD is your bible!
The film takes you behind the trademark bob and huge sunglasses. It is a revealing look into the inner workings and glamour of the fashion industry, as they prepare the biggest ever issue of the magazine.
It's really no surprise to me seeing how much work was put into this particular issue. Neither was it a shock to see Anna Wintour's "human side" because in my opinion, people are people, no matter how stoic or "icy" they are. She actually seems quite nice, although if asked to ever speak to her, I think I would faint!
The big revelation I had from watching The September Issue is the amazing talent that is Grace Coddington. I had no knowledge of her whatsoever until I saw the film. Bare-faced with unruly hair and wearing the most functional workwear, she is not what I expected a Vogue creative director to look like at all, however in my opinion Vogue, would not be Vogue without her.
Here are some of the editorials featured in the documentary; texture, colorblock, 20's and Sienna. (see below)
I am so annoyed that I never brought Vogue’s September issue, time to go look for it on eBay.
Tuesday 29 December 2009
Friday 18 December 2009
CHRISTMAS '09 NEWSLETTER
It's snowing, which makes it official; It's Christmas!
Smiley faces, red noses and bustling high streets, a few more mince pies, Sherries and extra duck fat on the turkey are very much justified, before a fresh new start in 2010. A fresh start into the next decade posses the fact of 'resolutions', which by fact and experience is something that will undoubtable be broken by the end of the first week in January. So if like me you are sick of setting yourself unrealistic new year resolutions this year be kind to yourself and your conscience, and make a resolutions you can commit to.
Here are a few pointers from KemiStyle- Image Consultant:
1) The first and hardest one would be... 'Thou shall not spend in pointless sales'... Spending resolutions are hard to stick to once you've seen a bargain. For example, that red jacket is tempting; you like the way it looks and feels, but do you really need yet another piece of outerwear when you have one in blue, black and grey? And is red really a colour that will compliment your colouring anyway?
You know already that in an attempt to relieve boxing day boredom, you will find yourself fighting your way down the high street, being sucked in by bargains galore and raiding the sale rail. But how can you control your frivolous spending?
KemiStyle suggests investing in staple garments that will carry you through to next season. So, keep your eyes peeled for these classics, to ensure that you leave the shop with 2 bags, instead of 10:
FOR MEN:
A classic tapered white shirt, which is timeless when cut to perfection. I love Reiss, for shirts.
A deluxe velvet jacket, instantly spices up a mundane pair of jeans and shirt. Gant, is the ideal shop to buy your jacket.
Brown brogues, are a staple in any trendy man's shoe collection, Poste have them in all different shades and styles.
A good quality V neck jumper, is a purchase you can not go wrong with, especially if brought from John Smedley.
Last but by no means least, a well cut suit, from the likes of Hugo Boss, is a must for any savvy professional.
FOR LADIES:
If you do not own a LBD, now is the time to buy one, ensure the cut is classic and therefore timeless, so even in 3 years time you can wear it. I would suggest Coast.
A trench coat, is trendy and can be brought out at any season. Zara have great sassy and sexy style trenches.
Denim jeans, find a pair that fit your shape perfectly and you can not go wrong. Different brands for different shapes and sizes ladies. I personally find Nelly's brand suit my shape fantastically.
Comfortable, but stylist boots that work with any outfit. Aldo have a great array of styles and colours.
A big bright coloured leather bag, Mulberry bags are fabulous!
2) Try and cut down on your use of fast fashion. It may be convenient buying the same cheap top in 5 colours, but if they only last one wash, and then end up in the bin, where's the saving? Repeat after me....less quantity, more quality.
3) Be good to your body and pay it compliments. Look your absolute best by only wearing styles that suit you and make the most of your good assets.
4) If you really want to change old habits, have me edit your wardrobe so that you can start with a clean sheet in the new decade!
Finally, have a bloody good Christmas and New Year, and I look forward to seeing you next year, which, by the way, is set to be an exciting one! x
Smiley faces, red noses and bustling high streets, a few more mince pies, Sherries and extra duck fat on the turkey are very much justified, before a fresh new start in 2010. A fresh start into the next decade posses the fact of 'resolutions', which by fact and experience is something that will undoubtable be broken by the end of the first week in January. So if like me you are sick of setting yourself unrealistic new year resolutions this year be kind to yourself and your conscience, and make a resolutions you can commit to.
Here are a few pointers from KemiStyle- Image Consultant:
1) The first and hardest one would be... 'Thou shall not spend in pointless sales'... Spending resolutions are hard to stick to once you've seen a bargain. For example, that red jacket is tempting; you like the way it looks and feels, but do you really need yet another piece of outerwear when you have one in blue, black and grey? And is red really a colour that will compliment your colouring anyway?
You know already that in an attempt to relieve boxing day boredom, you will find yourself fighting your way down the high street, being sucked in by bargains galore and raiding the sale rail. But how can you control your frivolous spending?
KemiStyle suggests investing in staple garments that will carry you through to next season. So, keep your eyes peeled for these classics, to ensure that you leave the shop with 2 bags, instead of 10:
FOR MEN:
A classic tapered white shirt, which is timeless when cut to perfection. I love Reiss, for shirts.
A deluxe velvet jacket, instantly spices up a mundane pair of jeans and shirt. Gant, is the ideal shop to buy your jacket.
Brown brogues, are a staple in any trendy man's shoe collection, Poste have them in all different shades and styles.
A good quality V neck jumper, is a purchase you can not go wrong with, especially if brought from John Smedley.
Last but by no means least, a well cut suit, from the likes of Hugo Boss, is a must for any savvy professional.
FOR LADIES:
If you do not own a LBD, now is the time to buy one, ensure the cut is classic and therefore timeless, so even in 3 years time you can wear it. I would suggest Coast.
A trench coat, is trendy and can be brought out at any season. Zara have great sassy and sexy style trenches.
Denim jeans, find a pair that fit your shape perfectly and you can not go wrong. Different brands for different shapes and sizes ladies. I personally find Nelly's brand suit my shape fantastically.
Comfortable, but stylist boots that work with any outfit. Aldo have a great array of styles and colours.
A big bright coloured leather bag, Mulberry bags are fabulous!
2) Try and cut down on your use of fast fashion. It may be convenient buying the same cheap top in 5 colours, but if they only last one wash, and then end up in the bin, where's the saving? Repeat after me....less quantity, more quality.
3) Be good to your body and pay it compliments. Look your absolute best by only wearing styles that suit you and make the most of your good assets.
4) If you really want to change old habits, have me edit your wardrobe so that you can start with a clean sheet in the new decade!
Finally, have a bloody good Christmas and New Year, and I look forward to seeing you next year, which, by the way, is set to be an exciting one! x
Friday 11 December 2009
HARRODS MEN
Yesterday evening, I was invited to the Harrods launch party of there new revamped menswear department. It was decorated lavishly with marble, polished wood and leather, the refurbished area resembles a modern gentleman’s club. I was suprised we were allowed to walk around with our drinks, Lord knows if I had spilt any, I would have had to pay for the damages :-S
Designers from around the world have recognised the importance of the event by providing items to be sold exclusively within the department. From Yves Saint Laurent, who have reworked their logo into a Union Jack style for a limited edition T-shirt, to Burberry, whose creative director Christopher Bailey has hand-signed a number of the label's signature trenchcoats. There's also a new Prada bag and an exclusive Balenciaga bomber jacket in the offing - rare pieces that are sure to become collector's items. Beloved British designer Paul Smith even flew a customised Mini onto the Harrods helipad, to create a one-off image which he has used on a range of bags and wallets. The new department will no doubt become an “international destination for menswear”.
Designers from around the world have recognised the importance of the event by providing items to be sold exclusively within the department. From Yves Saint Laurent, who have reworked their logo into a Union Jack style for a limited edition T-shirt, to Burberry, whose creative director Christopher Bailey has hand-signed a number of the label's signature trenchcoats. There's also a new Prada bag and an exclusive Balenciaga bomber jacket in the offing - rare pieces that are sure to become collector's items. Beloved British designer Paul Smith even flew a customised Mini onto the Harrods helipad, to create a one-off image which he has used on a range of bags and wallets. The new department will no doubt become an “international destination for menswear”.
Monday 7 December 2009
SHOPPING WITHOUT SPENDING A PENNY!
NO, I did not rob a shop, or steal some items of clothing. I went to a fashion exchange in aid of Macmillan cancer support or credit crunch chic, as I like to call it!
We all love fabulous new clothes, but are less keen on the unfortunate side effects.....our pockets. It's not our fault our bank managers don't understand the importance of shiny new shoes.
The fashion exchange is shopping without these hangovers. So this afternoon,along I went with clean, presentable good quality clothes that I no longer wear, or indeed have never even taken the tag off to wear, and swapped them for a few great steals. I came home with a large bag which inside included 3 dresses, a top, a cardigan and a pair of boots.
So from my experience, this is how it works:
- Have a rummage through your wardrobe, to find some quality garments that you no longer wear.
- Take your clothes to the event, and exchange your garments for fashion exchange tokens.
- Spend some time browsing the rails to see what there is on offer.
- As soon as the bell rings to declare the exchange as open, you may choose the same amount of items you brought in to exchange.
- Remember no scratching, fighting or hair pulling!!! (This is not an episode of Friends, where Monica went wild at the discounted bridal store lol)
I would highly recommend this form of shopping, find out where and when your local fashion exchange takes place.
We all love fabulous new clothes, but are less keen on the unfortunate side effects.....our pockets. It's not our fault our bank managers don't understand the importance of shiny new shoes.
The fashion exchange is shopping without these hangovers. So this afternoon,along I went with clean, presentable good quality clothes that I no longer wear, or indeed have never even taken the tag off to wear, and swapped them for a few great steals. I came home with a large bag which inside included 3 dresses, a top, a cardigan and a pair of boots.
So from my experience, this is how it works:
- Have a rummage through your wardrobe, to find some quality garments that you no longer wear.
- Take your clothes to the event, and exchange your garments for fashion exchange tokens.
- Spend some time browsing the rails to see what there is on offer.
- As soon as the bell rings to declare the exchange as open, you may choose the same amount of items you brought in to exchange.
- Remember no scratching, fighting or hair pulling!!! (This is not an episode of Friends, where Monica went wild at the discounted bridal store lol)
I would highly recommend this form of shopping, find out where and when your local fashion exchange takes place.
Tuesday 1 December 2009
THE FINISHING TOUCH: A LA CARTE SOCIAL ETIQUETTE COURSE…
DAY ONE:
Rather apprehensive on my first day, I made sure I arrived well on time, as it was an etiquette course, showing up late would just be like showing up in joggers for an interview! Meeting the rest of the ladies was an upmost pleasure, they were all delightful, and the huge cultural diversity made for interesting conversation throughout the week.
The first module was one of my favourites throughout the course. International etiquette and general behaviour, we uncovered the nuances of British social codes, and international behaviour. I have now mastered the proper forms of introductions, greetings, saying goodbye and elocution. Interestingly, the key fact of this module is that religion is the prime indication of etiquette, which in fact makes a lot of sense.
The second module was the art of the table. Prior to this module I thought I had perfectly good table manners, however the multitude of things I learnt indicated otherwise. Table manners vary dependant on which country you are in. I now know how to distinguish table setting and manners from formal, protocol and informal settings. This module was the trickiest, and there was SO much to learn. Feel free to book a seminar or workshop with KemiStyle to find out all you need to know, when hosting or attending a dinner party.
DAY TWO:
This was a fun filled day! In the morning the ‘finishing touch’ girls visited Kensington Palace, former home of Diana, Princess of Wales. The Last Debutantes exhibition, was so good, it is a temporary exhibition exploring the glamorous and alluring world of the debutante. I now wish I was born in the 1940’s so that I could have had a ‘coming out’ party.(No not in that sense lol) The ‘coming out’ party was the London season, which would have suited me just fine, getting all dressed up, partying, fine dining, going to Royal Ascot and the Polo. However having to be escorted everywhere would have annoyed me, as those of you who know me, know I like my independence.
The 8 course meal was my favourite module of the course. We experienced a formal luncheon in The Milestone Hotel, where no detail was left unturned. I learnt the art of working from the outside in, just as Jack did in the Titanic. I can now pass the port properly, but please do not ask me to use a knife and fork to eat fruit; I was utterly appalling at this. I think in future I shall skip the 6th course!
DAY THREE:
The art of entertaining and being entertained. What not to say at dinner parties…..Politics, Religion and Money is a NO NO! I am known for being Miss organised, I love hosting parties (my 21st has been my best to date) this module was good, as it has given me the correct procedures to host any type of party in the future.
Poise and deportment, walking with a book on my head, was rather fun. To my surprise it did not fall off, must be due to my ballet classes when I was a young girl! We mastered walking in heels (although this is something I am used to, having worn heels for as long as I can remember) descending staircases, and getting in and out of a car with grace and elegance.
DAY FOUR:
Personal Image and society dress codes, was a module I thoroughly enjoyed, I had an advantage due to my profession, although you never stop learning, and I defiantly learnt a few things, for example the protocol difference between a black and white tie do.
In the afternoon on the last day, we indulged in afternoon tea, which is something I really enjoyed. I first experienced afternoon tea, for my 18th birthday, and I can’t get enough of it. I, likewise to Anna the 7th Duchess of Bedfordshire, find myself getting hungry between lunch and dinner. In 1840 she introduced the tradition of afternoon tea to be served between 3-5pm, traditionally a ladies only event, although in today’s society men can also enjoy the art of tea in all its forms: cream, light, high and royal tea. There is a whole rule of etiquette behind the notion of tea, which goes much further than the cute little monkey on PG tips!!
No matter who you are or what you do, your manners have a direct impact on your professional and social success, I have learnt SO much in my time on the ‘Finishing touch’ course. I feel very passionate about Image, and I am now developing this passion in decorum. The two compliment each other fantastically, I am now pleased to say I am an Image and Etiquette Consultant. If you wish to learn more, please contact me and I can create some bespoke programs that suit you and your company.
In the meantime in the words of my course tutor…..don’t forget to mind your manners!!
Rather apprehensive on my first day, I made sure I arrived well on time, as it was an etiquette course, showing up late would just be like showing up in joggers for an interview! Meeting the rest of the ladies was an upmost pleasure, they were all delightful, and the huge cultural diversity made for interesting conversation throughout the week.
The first module was one of my favourites throughout the course. International etiquette and general behaviour, we uncovered the nuances of British social codes, and international behaviour. I have now mastered the proper forms of introductions, greetings, saying goodbye and elocution. Interestingly, the key fact of this module is that religion is the prime indication of etiquette, which in fact makes a lot of sense.
The second module was the art of the table. Prior to this module I thought I had perfectly good table manners, however the multitude of things I learnt indicated otherwise. Table manners vary dependant on which country you are in. I now know how to distinguish table setting and manners from formal, protocol and informal settings. This module was the trickiest, and there was SO much to learn. Feel free to book a seminar or workshop with KemiStyle to find out all you need to know, when hosting or attending a dinner party.
DAY TWO:
This was a fun filled day! In the morning the ‘finishing touch’ girls visited Kensington Palace, former home of Diana, Princess of Wales. The Last Debutantes exhibition, was so good, it is a temporary exhibition exploring the glamorous and alluring world of the debutante. I now wish I was born in the 1940’s so that I could have had a ‘coming out’ party.(No not in that sense lol) The ‘coming out’ party was the London season, which would have suited me just fine, getting all dressed up, partying, fine dining, going to Royal Ascot and the Polo. However having to be escorted everywhere would have annoyed me, as those of you who know me, know I like my independence.
The 8 course meal was my favourite module of the course. We experienced a formal luncheon in The Milestone Hotel, where no detail was left unturned. I learnt the art of working from the outside in, just as Jack did in the Titanic. I can now pass the port properly, but please do not ask me to use a knife and fork to eat fruit; I was utterly appalling at this. I think in future I shall skip the 6th course!
DAY THREE:
The art of entertaining and being entertained. What not to say at dinner parties…..Politics, Religion and Money is a NO NO! I am known for being Miss organised, I love hosting parties (my 21st has been my best to date) this module was good, as it has given me the correct procedures to host any type of party in the future.
Poise and deportment, walking with a book on my head, was rather fun. To my surprise it did not fall off, must be due to my ballet classes when I was a young girl! We mastered walking in heels (although this is something I am used to, having worn heels for as long as I can remember) descending staircases, and getting in and out of a car with grace and elegance.
DAY FOUR:
Personal Image and society dress codes, was a module I thoroughly enjoyed, I had an advantage due to my profession, although you never stop learning, and I defiantly learnt a few things, for example the protocol difference between a black and white tie do.
In the afternoon on the last day, we indulged in afternoon tea, which is something I really enjoyed. I first experienced afternoon tea, for my 18th birthday, and I can’t get enough of it. I, likewise to Anna the 7th Duchess of Bedfordshire, find myself getting hungry between lunch and dinner. In 1840 she introduced the tradition of afternoon tea to be served between 3-5pm, traditionally a ladies only event, although in today’s society men can also enjoy the art of tea in all its forms: cream, light, high and royal tea. There is a whole rule of etiquette behind the notion of tea, which goes much further than the cute little monkey on PG tips!!
No matter who you are or what you do, your manners have a direct impact on your professional and social success, I have learnt SO much in my time on the ‘Finishing touch’ course. I feel very passionate about Image, and I am now developing this passion in decorum. The two compliment each other fantastically, I am now pleased to say I am an Image and Etiquette Consultant. If you wish to learn more, please contact me and I can create some bespoke programs that suit you and your company.
In the meantime in the words of my course tutor…..don’t forget to mind your manners!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
