lace & prints : resort 2015

I have to admit, Resort 2015 was one of the most exciting Resort seasons I've seen in a long time. There were new designers showing their debut Resort collection, luxury houses jet-setting across the world to exotic locations, and ateliers showcasing a change in design direction, exploring new aesthetics and playing around with different types of ready-to-wear. The collections were of course, marvelous and I was so obsessed over so many of them! This seasons offerings were wide for Resort, from light summer wear to exquisite winter cur coats and essentials for the luxury jet-setter to seasonal wardrobe updates for the modern city girl.  "Resort means nothing. Who buys clothes exclusively for going to a resort?" so said Oscar de la Renta at his Resort 2015 presentation. Who indeed? There are only a rarefied few who buys four to five-figure luxury wear just to travel around the world, and for most buying Resort, it's simply just to keep their wardrobe afresh with the latest ready-to-wear. Out of the countless collections, here are some of the most stunning ones, offering a myriad of styles from sleek city chic to red carpet glamour to sophisticated street style prints.

HOUSE OF HOLLAND : Loud colours with even louder prints was the core of Henry Holland's collection for Resort 2015. In a tribute to Diana Vreeland's famous quote "I've never met a leopard print I didn't like.", Holland piled the collection with only the boldest animal prints : leopard, zebra and python set in an insane mix of deep blue, neon green, fuchsia, acid orange and even "Vreeland red". The muse was a devil-may-care seventies girl, all decked out in the brightest of iridescent fabrics in the form of : a miniskirt that could be zipped off "in case you didn't think the skirt was short enough,", cameo swimsuits and a "My Pussy, My Rules" vest as well as shrimp and burger keychains and acrylic purses. Take notes, this is how to make a statement without ever being trashy.

TORY BURCH : While most print-focused collection was loud and over-the-top, Tory Burch Resort 2015 wasn't. The clothes were extremely wearable, with a familiar silhouettes and a very inviting sense of ease. Where Burch lacked in supposed grandness she made up with specialness in the fabrics : lacquered guipere lace, nubuck suede and laser-cut cotton; creating pieces with the perfect mix of simplicity and romance.

VERSACE : Versace has always been about sexy, but Donatella Versace decided to trade the usual slinky silhouettes for a more boxy look for Resort. Inspired by the swinging '60s, the collection featured A-line skirts, suits, oversized coats and parkas in shimmering silk printed with copious amounts of striking geometric prints. The Medusa and the signature Greek key were mainstays for Versace; but debut prints like polka dots, flags as well as glossy python and harlequin motifs added a touch of whimsy to the dazzling collection. While the shoe offerings like gladiator heels and peep-toe-boots were meant for daywear or nightwear, the clothes {coats, frocks, suits} were meant for day-to-nightwear.

Versace clearly had the on-the-go muse in mind because believe it or not there was a lilac printed silk and cotton hoodie designed just for hitting the gym. But eveningwear was what Versace was made to create, and this clearly showed in the collection because all the evening offerings were to say the least absolutely stunning. Swarovski crystals and tulle adorned the hems of one cocktail number, while a body-con dress was worked into exquisite knit. And the finale : a black silk cady off-shoulder gown, finished with a thigh-high slit {cue Angelina Jolie} lined with zippers encrusted with bands of shimmering rhinestones. Is there any part of this collection that isn't to-die-for?

JC DE CASTELBAJAC : While I've never been a fan of Castelbajac , Resort 2015 really made me sit up and notice his works. For Resort, he was inspired by painting by artists like Henri Matisse and Jean Cocteau, and decided to put his own spin on the luxurious elegance of the French Riviera. And gone away were the cliche Breton stripes and retro pieces that came with the South of France, instead Castelbajac created an extremely wearable wardrobe, infusing quirkiness and colour into a delightful mix of classic and casual pieces. The sportswear influenced ready-to-wear were injected with cheerful vibrant hues {think splashes seashore blue, olive, bright red, citrus orange and fuchsia} on muted navy and off-white fabrics while trompe l'oeil prints, 3D shoulder details embroidered to resemble olive birds, whimsical parasol patterns and basket weave cutouts made the collection pared-down yet luxurious.

BALMAIN : A trip to Los Angeles gave all the inspiration Olivier Rousteing needed for Resort 2015."They embrace fashion, not like in Paris, where they're in fashion, so they run away from it." explained Rousteing on the people of L.A. Combining bold graphics with a seventies vibe, the collection was everything Balmain and more. Bright contrasting colours set against strips of black was Rousteing's idea of fluidity, and he brought sexy back with body-con yet discreet silhouettes Balmain has come to be known for.  “There’s something boho, kind of gypsy about it. A bit seventies, a bit nineties." Inspired by the Native American heritage, clothes were beaded into tribal motifs and arrow pattern stitched into knits, while the trophy item was the poncho, the only outerwear chic enough for Balmain's free-spirited muse.

ELIE SAAB : Elie Saab has always been known for his luxurious eveningwear that frequently graces top red carpet all around the world.While gowns would still be the essence of Elie Saab, he turned his attention more to ready-to-wear for Resort 2015. Intricate patterns and details usually available only with a five figure dress are being sewn onto casual crepe blouses peplum jackets and suits. Perfect for the couture loving girl on the go.

Which collection was your favourite?

Blogger Spotlight : Nicole Le Mesurier & Eli Ansari

Meet Nicole & Eli, the dynamic blogger duo behind style blog The Green Raybans. Not only do they reside in the same country as I do, they are also exactly the same age as I am! Reading their blog has always been a joy as their posts are detailed yet light-hearted and easy to understand, and the fact that I share many things in common with them makes their blog even more relatable. From their latest wants, to Q&A with notable names of the fashion world, daily inspiration to travel photo diaries, there is always something worth checking out on their blog; no wonder that they already have a loyal following of close to 500! Read the interview below for an inside scoop into these two spunky 14 year olds!

1.What inspired you to create The Green Raybans?

Both: We have always been enchanted by fashion. We wanted to start a blog to express our fascination for the industry and writing. 

2. How do you spread out the blogging between the two of you?

Both: Since we both live in different parts of the world, we thought it would be quite tough to communicate. But now with so much technology like Whatsapp and Facebook, we can talk through there all the time! We don't exactly have a posting schedule but we help each other out a lot with the posting if one of us is busy.

3.What is your dream job?

N: As cliched as this sounds for any fashion blogger, my dream job would definitely to be a fashion journalist working in New York City! It's a very hard industry to get into though as so many people like myself  have the same dream!

E: I would love to work in the fashion industry, a job where I could travel often and work more on the business side of the industry. You always hear about the models and designers but I would love to work somewhat more behind the scenes and maybe even start my own magazine one day! 

4. What is the best part of blogging to you?

N: For me, the best part of blogging is reading the thoughtful and sweet comments readers put up on Your posts. It's a great feeling knowing that all of your hard work has gone somewhere. I also love making blogger friends through the blogosphere community.

E: The best part of blogging for me is knowing that your posts can help or inspire someone, and not go to waste. It's also great to meet people in the blogging community! 

5.Where would your dream vacation be?

N: I'm lucky enough to travel to many fascinating cities with my family. I have already visited my dream cities (New York and London) but I would love to visit Greece one day and revisit new York!

E: I'm fortunate enough to have travelled to many beautiful places before but I would love to revisit Bali or Tokyo! 

6. Who do you draw inspiration from? 

N: Be it a museum exhibit, a book or a movie- I draw inspiration from my daily surroundings. If you mean in terms of fashion, I love Grace Coddington's work.

E: I tend to get inspiration from absolutely anything. Sometimes it'll be from an outfit I see while I'm out in the city, and sometimes it'll be a song I hear on the radio! 

7. What is your biggest achievement in 2012 and your biggest goal for 2013?

Both: Our blog reaching more recognition and loyal followers definitely had to be our biggest achievement of 2012. I also went to my first fashion show last year which was an amazing experience. Posting at a regular basis has always been quite tough for us so that would be our main goal for this year.

8. Fave food/music? 

N: If you follow me on Instagram, you'll know that I eat WAY too much food so this is a hard one.  I have quite a sweet tooth and I love tiramisu, cupcakes and macaroons! Mac & Cheese and chicken rice would definitely make it to my list as well. As for music, The great gatsby soundtrack, Lana Del Rey, and  the XX are currently my favourites.

E: I have a huge sweet tooth! I love eating macaroons, they're my favorite. As for savory foods, after living in Singapore for 11 years, I must say chicken rice is the best. When it comes to music, anyone that knows me knows I am a huge Lana Del Rey fan, other than that I pretty much like any music!

9. What are your hobbies?

N: I love to swim and play tennis. Some other hobbies I have include reading, running, watching my favourite shows on TV, and of course blogging!

E: I have to say, I'm a shopaholic! And while I'm not hitting the shops, I like to read, play the violin, spend way too much of my time watching Pretty Little Liars and The Vampire Diaries,  hang out with my friends and obviously blogging! 

10. Your current beauty must-have?

N: I currently love my Bath and Body Works hand sanitisers. I swear I'm not a germaphobe, they just smell so nice! I also love Moroccan Oil and it has done wonders to my dry hair.

E: Recently I have been using my Clarins instant light lip perfecter and Rimmel Stay Matte Powder religiously! 

11. What is the craziest thing you have done in the name of fashion/What is the best thing you have ever bought?

Both: The craziest thing We've ever done is  just starting this blog and putting ourselves out there like this, in the name of fashion. 

12. What advice do you have for fellow style bloggers around the world?

Both: Our blog is still fairly new, however we have gone through our rough patches of the blog from the early beginning.  Our main advice would be to just stay true to yourself, only post about something that genuinely interests you. If you, like us, blog with someone that you are close to you should never let anything get in the way of your relationship. 

Love their blog? Follow them via Twitter, Facebook and Bloglovin'!

        Charlotte

Fashion Films | Chanel & Dior

Although they appear everywhere from stores to style magazines, ads are not enough for designers these days to promote their latest collections. Creative directors of luxury houses have started to take the director's seat, creating films that not only showcases the latest togs from the house, but also reflects the rich history and culture of the label. Today we look to two of the most iconic French luxury houses Chanel and Dior, as well as their latest films. Prepare to be awed.
Once Upon A Time by Karl Lagerfeld | Chanel

Karl Lagerfeld proves his directing skills once again in this delightfully French film "Once Upon A Time" which was made to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the very first Chanel boutique set in the quaint seaside town of Deauville, France. Being the face of Chanel's Coco Mademoiselle parfum, Keira Knightley was the natural choice for the Kaiser to play the legendary designer in her early years. Featuring notable names from British model Stella Tennant to Brad Kroenig, French actress Clotilde Hemse (as her aunt Adrienne) to Tallulah Harlech, this film was premièred at Raffles Hotel in Singapore (I still can't believe Karl was came to Singapore!) a day before Chanel's Resort Cruise 2014 collection was showcased at Loewen Cluster. Teen supermodel Lindsey Wixson also made an appearance in the film, wearing a très chic black feathered hat. Fabuleux.

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Secret Garden - Versailles by Inez and Vinoodh | Dior

If you haven't noticed, Dior has a thing for gardens. From Raf Simons' 2012 Couture collection to now their Secret Garden film series, Dior always had a recurring garden theme in its collections. Lensed by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, the films were shot in the most dreamy palace in the world --- Versailles.Last year's Secret Garden was filled with glamorous hallways with impossibly ornate décor, but the second extension of the series "Secret Garden 2 - Versailles" instead brings you to the lush forest grounds of the Château.

 A symbol of Dior's French tradition, the picturesque Château de Versailles brings to life the Dior Fall 2013 collection, starring Russian clotheshorse Daria Strokous as Maria Antoinette, Xiao Wen Ju and Melissa Stasiuk clad top-to-toe in Dior Fall '13 togs. Enter an enchanting world from the Petit Trianon to the surreal misty forests, complete with iconic Diorissimo handbags, colourful spring gowns and of course, stunning scenery. 

Being ever the art historian, Raf Simons even took inspiration from French artists! The scene before you click "play" is apparently inspired by Édouard Manet’s famed "Le Déjeuner sur l’Herbe" or "Luncheon on the Grass", featuring three people reclining on the forest floor. In the film, they are replaced by Daria, Melissa and Xiao Wen still relaxing on the forest floor but instead donning full Dior regalia, with baskets of fruit and Diorissimo bags to match.
(Fun Fact : Did you know Dior means golden in French? Now you know.)

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What do you think? If these films aren't très français, I don't know what is.

       Charlotte

MFW : Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2014

Milan has always been to me a city of heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. I mean, which fashion week does culture and luxury as well as MFW? Amongst all the labels showing at Milan Fashion Week however, Dolce & Gabbana has consistently been the one with the most tocco italiano. Ever since discovering the magic of Dolce & Gabbana during their F/W 2013 season, I have since been in love with their cheerful yet exquisitely-made collections. This season, the Italian duo served up yet another gorgeous collection inspired by their hometown of Sicily. Italy has clearly been an endless source of inspiration for their collections, considering that their past nine seasons were all inspired by it's culture and history. But what set the Spring 2014 collection apart was the very strong Greek theme it had. From white temple-like columns and ancient goddesses, to almond blossoms significant to Greek culture and oversized golden coins, these Greek motifs appeared on almost every part of the looks, from the accessories to the clothes.

 The Sicilian almond flower was a symbol of ancient pagans and this season, almond blossom trees were not only the backdrop of the runway venue, the blossoms were also adorned on the models' hair and appliquéd on the delicate long-sleeved semi-sheer organza frocks that floated down the runway. (I can just imagine Dolce girls wearing these to a picnic or a day out in a Mediterranean city!) As ethereal and dream-like as they were, the florals were not sewn on but actually hand-painted onto the gowns, clearly showing the amount of craftsmanship that goes into the pieces.

As trendsetting as always, Dolce & Gabbana showed a number of pieces with the polka dot, a trend that was revived during London Fashion Week. From sheer and lace gowns to bright red dresses and black pencil skirts, polka dots were given a fresh spin on the Dolce & Gabbana catwalk. Brace yourselves for a spotty wave throughout the fashion world! 

Dolce & Gabbana gave Greek history a fashion makeover with their prints of ancient ruins on dresses. Greek temple columns and crumbling Italian architecture were the prints of interest for the duo, as they splashed them on a variety of accessories, clothes and shoes. What caught my attention was the clever use of Greek columns as heels for one of the shoes, it was hands down the most unique and original shoe designs of Spring 2014.

If you ask anyone what the most memorable part of the collection was, it would most likely be the phenomenal use of Roman and Greek coins. Exploding everywhere on the runway, the coins were at the centre of the gold gilded belts cinched on gowns and tops alike and dotted sheer LBDs, lacy shorts and outerwear. Accessories were also not spared the money makeover, with coins adorning heels, shaped into draping necklaces and attention-grabbing buckles on the bags. Even the models' 'do were stashed with coins! Domenico and Stefano were clearly working the "If you have it, flaunt it." style.

Last season had gilded embellishments, this season had fur. Fur stoles took the runway by storm in a myriad of shades, from beige to deep green, to blue and cardinal red. The fur brought volume to the looks and turned the luxury of the collection up a notch. The soft/hard contrast between the hard gold accessories and the lush fur was another D&G signature and after so much eye-popping gold, the fur was just the right touch to round up the collection.

In an ode to Sicilian glamour (and perhaps femininism), Dolce & Gabbana sent out what Twitter called the #GoldenArmy : an army of models wearing nothing but top-to-toe gold, strutting down the runway en mass for the finale. This was what the D&G princess was all about : being bold, fierce and glamorous at the same time. Fabulously italiano.

2 Years + Bath & Body Works Giveaway! *WINNER ANNOUNCED*

Being a blogger has completely changed the way I live my life now, when I think back to life before my blog I only now realise how much it's affected my life, such as when I go shopping I can't help but think, 'oh I read a review on this' and 'oh maybe I could buy this for my blog' along with the constant hunt for blog photo props.

Being a blogger has it's pros and cons though. My favourite thing about it all though is getting to meet lovely people along the way at events or meet ups. 

This year I have been way more involved in the blogging world as I attended my first ever bloggers event in March with the one and only well-loved skincare brand Kiehl's. You can read all about this here. This was way out my comfort zone going out my way to something new and meeting new people, I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous but it really made me feel confident and inspired being in a room full of bloggers.

Going back to May was when I attended my first ever meet up with local bloggers at the Derby Brunch which was just wonderful to meet so many bloggers around where I live, you don't really think that other people write blogs in your area until you go to one of these kinds of things. We all had fun chatting away enjoying our meals, sipping cocktails (some of you). 

Another event happened during May when myself and Sherry from SherryScribbles got invited to an opening night for a local salon in Beeston called Hairven, you can read all about my experience on this here. Which then leads me on to probably the most exciting event I attended, which was a chance to try out Benefit's new brow range from the lovely Jo at John Lewis. For someone who loves the brand Benefit this was such an amazing opportunity for me, if you're interested in reading about this then please give it a read here.

To celebrate in keeping my blog alive for 2 years (barely) I'm pleased to announce a very special autumn-themed giveaway for you all, which I think any candle loving person would go crazy for as I am giving away a Bath & Body Works 3 Wick candle in the scent 'Leaves' & a PocketBac Hand Sanitizer in the scent 'Coconut Pumpkin Latte'. This giveaway will last for 2 weeks from today ending on the 9/11/16 and is only available to UK ONLY.

If you would like to enter then please use the Rafflecopter widget below. Good Luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here's to another year of blogging!

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! Congratulations to Tiffany Rawling & Thank you to everyone who entered.

OOTD | Stripes & Dungarees

Sorry I haven't been as busy on the blog as I'd like to but I've been busy on the job hunt. I won't go into much detail about work but let's just say I'm not happy there anymore so I've been spending a lot of my time focusing on the cv and portfolio pieces.

Autumn is almost upon us, well it definitely is in the fashion world anyway bye bye summer! and as Autumn is my favourite season, it's also my favourite fashion style to layer it up and get cosy wearing ankle boots and jumpers.

I remember owning a pair of blue denim dungarees when I was younger in the 90's along with choker necklaces and here I am in my twenties wearing the same trend.

For me or tall people (I'm 5ft 7" is that tall?) finding dungaree's that fit great is so hard! The number of times I've tried different sizes on to then fit at the waist but are pulling at the front where the clips are is ridiculous. I tried many pairs on at New Look and then Primark and just gave up on the idea of having a pair of dungarees.

I went to Matalan with Sam because that's one of the very few places that stock shoes in his size and I only look at the women's when I can but It must have been fate because as soon as we walked in, what happens to be hanging up for the first item to see. You've guessed it, a pair of black denim dungaree's, so giving it one last try I found my size and tried them on and to my relief they were perfect! I mean you can't get them any better. They fit well around the waist, no pulling on the front, comfy when I sit/bend down & at a really affordable price too.

This is going to my favourite outfit to wear in Autumn as I will be able to pair this with jumpers and shirts.

Dungarees - Matalan

Striped Crop Top - New Look

Choker Necklace - Primark

Do you have any problem's when shopping for clothes? Do you love the Dungaree trend?

2016 Goals & Resolutions

Happy 2016 everyone. Hope you all had a good New Years, I had a great night getting drunk with some friends and then I spent New Year's Day recovering and being unproductive which is why this is being posted now to make use of what spare time I have left until i'm back to balancing my work/blogging routine on monday boo  I made a Goals and Resolutions post at the start of 2015 which I have actually surprised myself and stuck with them, you can view them here.

Start A House Fund
I'm turning 23 this year and even though I am in no rush to move out I think it's quite sensible in starting a fund. I have an appointment with my bank to discuss schemes and an ISA. When it comes to change it can be quite scary for me so when I feel the time is right I'll have something to start with.

Removing Negative People From My Life
2015 has been an emotional rollercoaster with me, so I've decided to stop wasting my time and effort with people who aren't there for me and stop feeling so down/guilty about it. I'm going to be focusing on being happy and making the effort with my friends which deserve to be called it, as you'd be surprised who contacts you first when you stop making the effort.

Say Yes More
This was something I made my goal last year and by sticking to this I've had so many happy memories in 2015. I've been out with friends more, stuck with my Zumba for a year nearly, stuck with blogging and getting involved in twitter chats more and I've got back into photography again. Who knows what will happen this year.

Work On Improving My Blog
I recently got a new camera for Christmas so I want to work on improving my blog posts such as layout and backgrounds and for me to do this is to get inspired by you lovely bloggers. I also want to work more on my content and by this I mean more lifestyle / fashion posts, but I will be working on some beauty posts still and I want to get more organised with my routine, so I've ordered a weekly planner pad to help with my work/life/blogging routine.

Have A Proper Skincare Routine
I would say I already have a good morning skincare routine sorted as I cleanse, exfoliate, serum, moisturise and prime before putting on make up but my bedtime routine is a little sloppy as I just remove my make up and sleep so I'm going to get in the habit of moisturising my face and hands more. If anyone has any posts on bedtime routine I'd love a read so I can get an idea on how to start.

That's it for my 2016 goals and resolutions. What's yours?

Hairven Salon Launch Party & My Experience

In May I had been invited to a Launch Party for the opening of a new hair & beauty salon in Beeston, Nottingham as part of them extending their branch as they originally opened in Gedling, Nottingham. I've never been to anything like this before which was exciting as when we arrived there was a red carpet and a lady who greeted us for the guest list, which was all very fancy.

I went with Sherry from Sherry Scribbles, who is a Food, Beauty & Lifestyle blogger. We then received a welcome pack which came with brochures and leaflets all about Hairven and a few samples from products that's in the salon. There was music playing with coloured mood lights all around the room which made it feel like you was in a club with loads of people dressed up and chatting. I was offered a beverage and then walked around taking photos until we came across a photo booth which was so much fun as you could choose props and be silly.

This salon has a good reputation and has won many amazing awards such as 'The English Hair & Beauty Awards 2013' and even named 'Best Salon' in Glamour magazine, if that's not impressed you then let me tell you about the pricing, it may look all luxurious and you're probably thinking how much will it cost to get my hair cut here? Well for a dry cut it cost £19 and I pay that from my local salon so it makes no difference to me but they currently have a 25% opening offer from Mon - Thurs.

I got myself booked in for a facial and hair colouring because my dye needed sorting out as it was getting bad and I was impressed with their work as they always post stuff on social media. I needed high standards like salons in London but local and they nail that.

I met a lovely lady called Becci, who made me feel really welcome and explained everything she was going to be doing in the facial and then asked me my skin type dry. I then got comfy on this bed under a towel making sure my shoulders were shown and she began the facial. We did a sniff test on some oils which I had to pick out the strongest scent as this is what my body needed. I chose an oil which helped hydration so that worked out well for me. I was then put under a UV light which highlighted areas of my problemed skin, she made me aware that I had some dry areas, some blackhead around my nose and a bit of sun damage, basically pointed out all of my flaws I'm joking I was interested to know, but I have fair skin so this wasn't a problem, the main problem is my dry skin. This helped make sure she was using the right products as I then had been exfoliated and moisturised with a message. After this lovely facial I was then served a Strawberry Mocktail and headed downstairs ready to get my hair done by the Angel Amy.

I've had Ombre/Dip Dye hair for a few years now and I like to get it re done once a year maybe less as it starts to get in a bad way and most of it's grown out. So this year I wanted to give Balayage a try, this is very simular to ombre but with more highlights to blend it in. I want to get rid of the straight hair to hair dye line that I had which didn't have any blending whatsoever. We went through on how I wanted my look exactly before she started and on the blonde colouring, I asked for white/ashy blonde. After many minutes of the waiting process I was all washed, blow dryed and styled.

Ta-dah!! I couldn't be happier with the results as the blending is just how I wanted it and I love the colour. it's the best feeling walking out of a salon feeling really happy and that's what I did. It was worth every penny so thank you to Hairven for making my locks look gorgeous.

Have you had a great experience from a salon? or a bad one? I'd love to hear your stories