Paris Fashion Week SS'13: Days 3, 4 & 5

Paris Fashion Week:
Days 3, 4 & 5

What is there to say about PFW days 3, 4 & 5 other than "wow"? Not only because we saw some of the most amazing collections from the fashion capital, but because we might have saw some of the worst from designers that we expected more from. A designer who has unfortunately fallen into this category is one of my all time favourites: Rick Owens. Before Fashion Week begins, I write down each show that I feel I want to take a look at the most and then ultimately write about; it keeps me organised and usually those end up being the shows that I do stick to and don't normally venture away from. Rick Owens was on said list for Thursdays shows, however after seeing his collection and the direction in which he took it for SS'13, I will not be featuring him in this post. If you know anything about Rick Owens, you'll know that he is known for his exquisite and absolutely amazing leather pieces; well, all I can say is that his Spring 2013 collection could not have ventured further from this if it tried. There were a few black and leather pieces towards the end, but not enough to satisfy me. Just click here and you'll see what I'm talking about.

Day 3

Balenciaga 

Sporty yet sassy: that is how the Balenciaga girl will be feeling next season, with an array of flirty A-symmetric cut skirts and boxy cropped tops in leather and mixed knits. What I really love about the looks is just how sexy they are, but in a non-obvious way; the knitted jumper with blue printed skirt, or the boxy crop top and high-waisted frilly skirt with super sexy thigh-high slit - It's almost like taking a pair of stilettos and wearing them with track pants or something. My favourite piece is the mini circle skirt with dipped hem and contrasting trim. It's simple and casual, yet dressy and formal at the same time. I just love how versatile it could be. 

Balmain

I don't have to see the rest of Paris Fashion Week to know that I've found my ultimate SS'13 favourite from Fashion Month. Balmain is, without a doubt, my favourite label and Oliver Rousteing definitely knows how to produce collections that tug on my heart strings and have me instantly lusting after; even with the Balmain menswear label, I find myself loving every piece and thinking how I would love to see it on my fiance! It's an all round appreciation that I have and the SS'13 collection just reinforces that with a bang. For Spring 2013, the Balmain girl will be channeling her inner 90's gangster, with huge shoulder pads (YES!), high-waisted skinny & over-sized trousers, checker board patterns and leather, leather, leather. As soon as I saw the shoulder pads, I immediately thought of a French blazer from the 60's that I bought from a vintage store in Glasgow two years ago and how it would look perfect next season. It hasn't seen the light of day in a while, and I always love a good revival, so I'm excited to style it for the new season. I don't think it's possible to choose a favourite look from this collection, as I absolutely adore every single piece. Can I have one of everything please? 

Nina Ricci

Just how stunning was that rose petal shower at Nina Ricci? Paris at Midnight seemed to be the inspirational key feature for SS'13 with luxuriously silky sheen fabrics, movement via fringing and a colour palette to die for; navy, black, pink, blue and grey. There was something for everyone - from a sexy skinny leg trouser suit, to a fun and flirty deep V cocktail dress with fringing. There was even a little S&M referencing through harness belts almost entirely sheer belted coats. I just loved how sultry and romantic the collection felt through the fabrics, colours and cuts - it really is a beautiful collection and one that I have a feeling will be a hit with buyers for Spring 2013.

Day 4

Dior

At Milan we waited with baited breath for the return of Jil Sander at her self named label, and for Paris, the same can be said for Dior as Raf Simons shows his debut collection for the design house. Dior is widely known for it's sophisticated and classic aesthetic, so it could be said that Raf Simons had a lot on his shoulders when designing for SS'13. I think he did a wonderful job however keeping the classic aesthetic, whilst mixing in some of the most popular trends for next season - space-age being one - in an appropriate way for the Dior woman. That high sheen blue fabric used for his skirts and mini dresses looks as though there is a high voltage running through the garment and is actually rather beautiful. It's definitely something that I could see myself wearing - especially with those metallic point-toe courts.Towards the end of the collection we began to see the classic and well known Dior silhouette in the form of long sleeve dresses with full rose-printed skirts. I liked that Raf Simons kept the two-tone sheen in those garments, as it really does give it something extra.

Day 5

Viktor & Rolf

Was there anything not to love in the Viktor & Rolf SS'13 collection? Metallic pleat panels, rose printed motifs, varsity jackets paired with floor length evening gowns and one stunning draped body suit. It was a collection that I just adored and didn't want to end. The play of monochrome with a little injection of shine-y silver and that A-symmetric floor length gown (3rd from the right) just had me at hello. It's such simple concepts, but entirely timeless and impressive at the same time.

A.F.Vandervorst

There was a definite gangster-esque feeling at the A.F.Vandervorst SS'13 collection made felt through the rather amazing waist belts and double breasted, belted coats. One single fastening, with four layers of unfastened belts felt a little holster like and as though a gun should be attached in some way. I loved that they were metallic gold and gunmetal because it added a little attraction to some otherwise simple looks. What was the most interesting about the collection though, was the use of gold in both the fabrics as well as the styling - gold body paint? A little strange, but it does kind of make you think of an alien race and in turn, the space-age trend that has swept Fashion Month like a storm. I don't think I'll be trying out the painted top with white trouser combo but you never know, Lady Gaga might be a fan!

Which is your favourite collection?

Photo Credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore.

Guest Post: Seasonal Footwear

Seasonal Footwear 

To fill in the gaps between Paris Fashion Week reviews, I thought some guest posts would be a fantastic way to keep you all engaged and provide a reason for you to come back for a little visit. Today's guest post is a little snippet of some new season footwear and the kinds of trends that not only I, but a few of you will be indulging in this Fall.

Too much of a dichotomy can sometimes be made between summer and winter fashion and what to stock your wardrobe with. This need not be the case. As the seasons transition, especially this year with the weather being so unpredictable, it’s a fascinating time to be investigating new trends. This is one of the few times a year in which you are free from the style restrictions of the rest of the year and you can begin to dress elegantly without having to compensate for extreme hot or cold weather. Currently, there are plenty of unique designs in shops, giving a bit of a twist to what people are wearing. One does not even have to look very far for good quality and reasonable prices. 

Current Styles 

Here are a few ideas for styles to get excited about this season, look out for them in collections by a range of top design houses; Patent shoes are something that have been missed throughout the summer; an elegant and sexy style that is perfect when the evenings are getting darker and cooler. A beautiful way to wear patent is in Mary Jane form with a bit of a heel. Coupled with a mid length evening dress this will create the perfect combination of class and femininity. For a look with more attitude try some patent boots; knee length ones are brave but if done right, bursting with style.  

Whether patent or not, brogues work beautifully and are a lovely addition to anyone’s wardrobe at this time of year. It’s time to stop thinking about the beach and start focusing on work or your studies for the last little bit of the year until party season begins again in the winter. To compliment this, some edgy yet comfortable Dune shoes are a must to get you back in the professional mood. Brogues do just this. Given a feminine twist they are smart enough for the office and versatile enough for an evening out. 

Studded boots - whether ankle length or knee length - are deliciously appropriate for autumn. We all miss our boots throughout the summer so finding a bold pair as soon as the time is right is essential at this time of year. Studs can be done in multiple ways. Small, shiny, and girlie for those who do not commonly feel confident wearing this sort of style, or you can go as chunky and spiky as you like, giving your outfit a real punk edge. They are an unusual addition to get you and your boots noticed. 

*Sponsored post*

Paris Fashion Week SS'13: Days 1 & 2

Paris Fashion Week SS'13:
Days 1 & 2

After receiving the feedback regarding review types, I decided to format my PFW reviews in paired days: I liked the idea of the posts containing shows from a couple of days as a catch up and it means that I can also focus of my studies a little better as well - Wednesday and today contained my first few classes and I now have more work to do than I can get my head around. Worry not, Vita di Moda will still be updated on a regular basis and won't be falling off on the side lines any time soon.

Day 1

Cedric Charlier

I can't decide which aspect of Cedric Charlier's SS'13 collection I loved more: the casual yet chic minimalism or the pops of bright coral. The collection was just to die for with sleek deep V gowns in black and coral mixed with sportier shapes and white perforated pull over jumpers and boxy white coats and dresses. It was easy on the eye but in no way boring. As soon as I saw the collection I just couldn't wait to show it to you and let you all know what I thought about it. The few printed pieces in the collection really stood out due to their limited appearances, however for someone like myself who enjoys mainly basic pieces with only a few prints thrown in here and there, this was a welcomed thing.

Anthony Vaccarello

Anthony Vaccarello gave us tailored pant suits for AW'12, but for SS'13 the designer has taken a load off his shoulders and gone softer with draped fabrics and rather interesting wrap skirts and dresses. I loved the slight galaxy feel that came with his sparkled black fabrics used in his dresses and the petrol blue and gold print on his pant suit shown above. It was details such as those which took the collection from laid back and almost passive, to "hold on a second, I need to take a closer look". My favourite piece? The draped black finale gown with super sexy hip-high slit. If only I had some beyonce legs to pull it off.

Day 2

Dries Van Noten

For Spring 2013, Dries Van Noten has just taken nature and a lumberjack and made them join forces: plaid, checked and floral - they're all there, intertwined with one another in a way that should technically appear, well, ugly to say the least. Some of it is though, don't get me wrong and I'm not going to sugar coat that, but there are a handful of looks where I might just be converted into a believer of the patterns coming together in a positive way. I don't really think this collection is one that needs much explanation - just look at it and take your own interpretation from it.

Gareth Pugh

Ah Gareth Pugh: the Prince of Darkness, a designer who will forever be able to pull on my heart strings. You all know by now that if you put anything leather in front of me, then I'm game. I just loved how simplistic, yet strange and gothic the whole collection was with the black, grey, white and extreme injection of red to liven it all up and appear a little less day of the living dead. The black leather head-to-toe garment with veil was just so striking, it was hard to look away and miss what was to come next. If I'm honest, I would probably wear said look without the head piece and veil. Does that make me weird? The draping of fabrics, reptile textures and fringing/ruffling on the last few looks all contributed to the collection as a whole and gave it a very commercial and wearable feel. I just loved it.

Which was your favourite show from the first two days of PFW?

Photo Credt: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore

Milan Fashion Week SS'13: Days 4, 5 & 6

Milan Fashion Week SS'13:
Days 4, 5 & 6

Before I begin, I just want to start by explaining the lack of content yesterday: After looking at hits on each show review so far, I found that people enjoyed the posts where I collaboratively reviewed a few days at a time, rather than each individual day. So with that in mind, I thought I would wait a day and give you a review from days 4, 5 & 6 together to see if that received a better response! 

Day 4

Fendi

What I loved about the SS'13 collection from Fendi the most, was the use of colour and subtle prints here and there which made the collection look vibrant, inspiring and cool. One little detailing that I had a particular appreciation for, were the looks which had peplum detailing that then doubled up as pockets. The shoes were particularly gorgeous and I'll tell you why: they reminded me of being back home in Glasgow. Why? Well purely because they resembled the Armadillo: which is an exhibition centre shaped like an armadillo and covered entirely in glass. The shoes themselves had an armadillo shaped arch on the front and the heel was covered in studs - when both elements came together, the Armadillo centre was just the first thing that I immediately thought of. In terms of the clothes, my favourite pieces happened to make their appearance at the end: gold, glitzy, shimmery and completely indulgent, they portrayed Fendi as the extravagant and luxurious fashion house that it is to the absolute best of their ability and closed the show with style.

Genny

If I had to put my finger on just one factor which drew me to the Genny SS'13 collection, it would have to be the leather wide leg trousers with dual contrasting waist and side stripe. I absolutely love them, which is strange for me seeing as I really don't wear a trouser which isnt straight or skinny. The mix of soft muted tones and slightly brighter teals and turquoise were stunning and the almost subliminal use of print was a great way to introduce a little excitement to the overall look. I just loved how laid back yet dressy the whole collection felt. The head scarfs were the only negative in my opinion, but apart from that, the collection was just exceptional. 

Jil Sander

The Jil Sander SS'13 collection was probably one of thee most highly anticipated shows for fashionista's everywhere due to Jil Sander returning to design for the label this season and I don't think anyone was disappointed. The collection was very clean cut, minimal and right up my street. The coats were probably my highlight, as I just love anything that feels a little over-sized, long line and cosy. The colours were gorgeous without being in your face like most of the collections that we've seen so far this month and the use of larger sequins on white garments was a clever way to introduce that particular trend as well as give an extra texture to something so plain. It was lovely to see the designer take her bow and I can't wait to see future collections with her back at the label.

Day 5

Missoni

Texture played a huge part in the Spring 2013 collection by Missoni, with a few garments actually resembling some sort of ligament or muscle. I'm not just being strange: seriously, Google what a muscle looks like and then have a look at the white ombre design second from the right - not the pattern, but the way that the fabric has been manipulated. Similar, eh? What I loved the most from this collection, was the use of sequins to create texture, dimension and a play on the dye trend which has been shown at a few shows for SS'13. I think it's great how the designer used them to play with colour and create an ombre effect from red fading in to white. The shoes in this collection were also stunning with the pop of colour being shown at the ankle in a minimal way to keep the focus on what was happening up top. It might not be a collection that I would wear personally, but it was certainly lovely to look at and appreciate. 

Giorgio Armani

How beautiful is this collection? Made up of mainly dove grey, ice blue and navy, the Giorgio Armani Spring 2013 collection portrays a starry sky and just immediately has you wanting to buy something silky. The fabrics are just so luxurious and appealing: they make you want to reach out and see if they feel as good as they look. The injection of print with more subtle looks was done perfectly and didn't overpower those more toned down pieces. It seems that I'm having a little extra appreciation for the Giorgio Armani brand this Fall with this SS'13 collection as well as the launch of his new Maestro foundation in October. If you haven't already popped into your nearest Giorgio Armani concession to try it, you really must. I didn't believe the consultant when she told me that the foundation actually gets better as the day goes on - I mean, hello! I have an oily T-zone, it's never going to stay - but I now happily put my hands up and say that she was right. I didn't even see the need for powder or blotting sheets throughout the day. It really is a miracle foundation. Anyway, that's enough brand appreciation for one day!

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferragamo clearly had one thing on his mind when he started designing his SS'13 collection - riding; Not classic equestrian though, oh no. It was edgy, updated and actually started to merge into some sort of Roman armour towards the end with the introduction of sequins and metallic fabrics. I loved the muted colours, subtle python print and those over-the-knee-high boots - oh my, weren't those screaming sex appeal? The quilted leather texture, belted dropped waists and A-symmetric folds on the dresses were seriously chic and definitely something that will be gracing the inside of my Spring 2013 wardrobe. I'm definitely more a laid back/casual-chic person when it comes to styling, so this collection is ranking highly on my Fashion Month favourites list. 

Day 6

DSquared2

I have always had an appreciation for DSquared2: when I first discovered Fashion TV as a kid, this designer alongside Elie Saab were the first shows I laid eyes on and ever since I've just loved the collections that they produce. I think it's hilarious that they asked Jedward to hang out with them backstage before the show stating that "twins stick together", and it's maybe a reason why I like the design duo so much - they're just so fun. For Spring 2013, the designers channeled the 90's with super short skirts, lots of knicker shorts and even some denim and long length dresses to keep a hold of some dignity. Accessories played the largest role in the collection however, with one look consisting of a black bikini top and bottoms with about 10 necklaces and bracelets layered on top, finished off with a lacquered hat on top. It was crazy and of course totally unwearable unless you're attempting to become the next Jodie Marsh, however the embroidered knicker shorts would look great with some hosiery to keep everything in check. I've already witnessed a girl in Newcastle with her bum cheeks on show (during broad day light), I don't want to see that again - no matter how skinny you may be. It's only acceptable on the runway. My favourite look from the collection would have to be the quilted leather mini dress with t-shirt underneath. I'm just a sucker for quilted leather in general, so when it is combined with the gold accessories I'm all over it. 

Roberto Cavalli

Finally, we have the Roberto Cavalli collection. Much like the Just Cavalli collection shown on Friday, there was a new air about the fashion house. It was fresh, crisp and clean and sported some amazing prints and all-white ensembles. After seeing quite a few designers show large portions of their collection all in white, I'm starting to feel a little inspired to see what I can come up with myself. The shredded trousers in white, black and nude were an interesting concept and had a more punky feel to them: mixed in with the clean whites and amazing prints and you had a winning combination. The collection was over-all elegant, sophisticated and contained just the right amount of edginess to keep the collection from being too grown up or boring.

Don't forget to let me know which style of reviews you prefer: whether it be daily, individual shows or a full weeks worth run together in the one post. This helps me give you the best content that I possibly can!

Photo Credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore

Milan Fashion Week SS'13: Day 3

Milan Fashion Week SS'13:
Day 3

Day three of MFW gave us some of the most exciting collections yet: Moschino, Just Cavalli, Versus, Versace, Etro and more. Versace was definitely my one must-see show this week, as I just adore how powerful, sexy and fierce Donatella portrays her woman to be. She is a force to be reckoned with and in this day and age, women need to be seen as that. 

Versace

 What I love more than anything about Donatella Versace as a designer is exactly what I said above: she portrays women to be a force to be reckoned with; like some sort of Roman warrior princess, but still keeping her sense of sheer femininity and softness about her. My favourite looks for Spring 2013 from Versace has got to be to slashed evening gowns in deep blue and tie-dye. The exposure of skin is just enough to look sexy but sophisticated and those gold waist belts with fringe detailing are just amazing in my opinion - as are the fringed gladiator boots and that sexy little gold fringed number second from the left above. I love the halter neck detailing and the movement that comes from the dress when shimmied down the runway. There were also some rather hippie looking pieces in the collection, with lace-trimmed leather (shorts, dresses, tops, jackets), tie-dye and crushed fabrics. It was a more subtle nod to the 60's theme that has repeatedly shown up at shows this week in Milan and I loved it.

Etro

Oriental florals are another trend which has popped up in Milan this week and seems to be a trend that designers didn't want to end in AW'12. I loved the peacock print black dress with knee-high slit and the total eruption of florals in this collection; whether they be on the front of trousers, or spreading up the sides of an outfit like a vine. I did say at the start of Fashion Month that I was hoping designers might surprise us with something other than the predictable floral, but after seeing how the Italians are doing it in Milan, I think I can just forget about my past comment and embrace florals full force next Spring/Summer. 

 Just Cavalli

After seeing this collection by Just Cavalli, I Just want to be a Cavalli girl. I don't really like to wear animal print or denim all that much - unless it's a pair of skinny jeans (the denim, not the print) - however I may just be swayed to give it a go next season. With purple being my favourite colour, it is needless to say that I was over the moon with the colour making such a prominent appearance on the runway: dropped waist silk dresses, thrown in next to animal print on trousers and printed onto A-symmetrical cut tops - it was everywhere and I absolutely adored it all. The theme for the collection was quite obviously a dive in the ocean, with the models looking like exotic fish with sequinned scales and brightly coloured fins (look at the dress 3rd from the right up top). The styling, hair and makeup themselves were appealing for me personally, purely because they were wearable looks that the majority of us sport in every day life: The middle parting, slight wave and fresh, yet sultry looking makeup just ticked all the right boxes. It was just stunning to watch the collection flow down the runway.

Which collection is your favourite?

Photo Credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore.

Milan Fashion Week SS'13: Day 2

Milan Fashion Week SS'13:
Day 2

Prada

There was a definite oriental theme going on for Prada's SS'13 collection, with spray painted floral prints, lots of fur and daisies. The clothes however, although interesting on their own, were enhanced by the accessories and this is probably the reason that the collection appealed to me so much as a whole - not because I would wear them, but rather just to sit and admire; Sock shoes with thong bow detailing in white, blush and metallic made the models feet look a little hoof-like and strange if I'm being honest. The platform sock shoes with floral detailing and cute blush fastenings made the concept a little more wearable, however still perhaps a little too daring for myself. Absolutely amazing to admire though! Then on to the bags - oh the bags. I loved the mini clutches covered in white fur, decorated with little daisies around the top and strap.  Very 60's chic but with the oriental twist to liven things up a little more. Overall it was a collection to entertain and make us think about wearing things that we might not have otherwise thought of!

Ermanno Scervino

Ermanno Scervino SS'13: such a gorgeous collection. What I loved about it was it's wearability for women of all tastes and lifestyles. There were simple - yet chic - black and white pieces, with perforated leather, feather tassles and jewel encrusted sections that made the looks stand out from the crowd. In between there were a series of sherbet yellow and pink looks that injected the right amount of colour to liven things up and give us options for Spring 2013. I loved the scythe heeled sandals with the white pant suit, as well as the perforated leather pieces. There were definite trends in this collection that I could see myself wearing for SS'13.

Could you see yourself wearing any of the pieces shown in Milan yesterday?

Photo credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore

Milan Fashion Week SS'13: Day 1

Milan Fashion Week SS'13:

Day 1

I feel a little more content with myself now that London Fashion Week has finished and Milan begun: I can finally start to take Fashion Week one day at a time and not worry about missing any shows due to moving or course inductions - Hallelujah! 

Milan kicked off yesterday with shows from Gucci, Alberta Ferretti and today: Prada, Emporio Armani and more. I was going to combine days 1 & 2 together, however now that I have a little more time on my hands I may as well take it a day at a time and give you my favourites from each day. First up, yesterday's shows from Gucci & Alberta Ferretti.

Gucci

Gucci's SS'13 collection took inspiration from the 60's with fluted sleeves, tunic & trouser combo's and a colour scheme which made you think you were in a candy shop - it really was good enough to eat. Shocking pink flowed into floral prints in white, coral and orange. Then came cobalt blues, sea greens and eventually the snake skin print in grey's, accented with pink. Canary yellows followed by Gucci's signature black and white looks finished the show. If the colour and prints weren't enough to sell you on the collection, then the sexy and sultry hints of skin peaking through the thigh-high slits, backless pieces and key-hole slit down the front will have you begging for more. It's much more classy to show a hint of skin that the full sha-bang and boy does Gucci understand this. 

Alberta Ferretti

If Alberta Ferretti did one prominent thing with her SS'13 collection, it would be to guide us to channel our inner mermaid. For Spring 2013, the Italian designer took inspiration from the sea and gave us some of the most exquisite pieces yet. Satins and sheer lace just about covered the female body and created looks that would wow even the harshest of critics (Joan Rivers and E!'s Fashion Police mainly). One wouldn't normally consider some fish netting to be the most fashionable of fabrics, but add a little sparkle and drape it over sheer lace and you have a winner. My favourite piece? The slick black floor length gown shown above with cross body lace paneling. Absolutely stunning. I can't wait to see which celebs will be sporting these looks on the red carpet in the near future!

Photo credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore.

London Fashion Week: Part II

London Fashion Week:
Spring/Summer 2013 - Part II

You read Part I of my LFW review, so here is Part II for your reading pleasures. One thing which became apparent when writing up this review, is just how insane and colourful London is when it comes to fashion. We all knew that having such powerful influences (think Vivienne Westwood's SEX shop days, The Spice Girls, Kate Moss, Austin Powers and the likes) surrounding us would no doubt result in collections such as those which appear each season at LFW; and to see that we make such a bold statement and stand out from the rest of the fashion capitals in the world certainly does invoke a little patriotism and pride - even if the collections are completely Lady Gaga and a little bonkers. Well, prim and proper does tend to get a little boring after a  while doesn't it? Us Brits just like to keep things interesting.

Philip Treacy

Like I mentioned above, Lady Gaga did indeed open the Philip Treacy show decked head to top in Arabian pink chic - complete with platform boots that really do resemble stilts. The head gear was the main feature of the show however, with some contraptions that verged on absolute madness - a bell shaped light-feature hat which encased the entire body and that smiley face which had me taking a second glance at to make sure that no-one had just edited it onto the model in any way using photoshop. It made for a very interesting and comical collection however, even if it did take all of the attention away from the clothes: an eclectic collection of pinstripe suits, leather trousers, Michael Jackson jackets and a dozen studded belt details and straps. It didn't really make a whole lot of sense, but it didn't matter because it's right up Lady Gaga's street and the designer is bound to make a buck or two from the popstar next season. 

Moschino Cheap & Chic

I'm going to be honest here and say that I didn't quite enjoy the Moschino Cheap & Chic SS'13 collection as much as I did AW'12. I did however, have an appreciation for a few key separates such as: those leather sports trousers with neon green paneling down the side and a few geometric print skirts thrown in for good measure. This particular collection took inspiration from our European neighbours in the sense that it paired sheer shirts, dressy skirts and dresses with brightly coloured sneakers and creepers (I'm a poet and I didn't know it!) - creepers obviously being a trend which Moschino felt had to be brought into the new year from 2012. The collection as a whole felt very 60's with a sporty twist and has given the era a vibrant revival. I will certainly be indulging in the sporty trend for Spring 2013 anyway!

 Christopher Kane

Christopher Kane took inspiration from the one and only Frankenstein for his SS'13 collection and I have to say, I absolutely loved it! The opening few looks were crisp white with padded oversized sleeves, cropped to the waist with some very lovely buckle detailing to finish off. Then came the colour in the form of pink blush, merging into purple, grey and black. Weaved skirts and jackets and connected 'jelly' bows all followed to give a fun and girly feel to quite a horror subject. My two favourite looks from the collection would have to be the printed Frankenstein head t-shirt with transparent pencil skirt and the sheer pink blush skirt and jacket with white top and what looked like a tape-stitching detail across each separate. Christopher Kane is one of those designers at London Fashion Week who will consistently give us collections which make us want to take a closer look and understand his thought process at the design stage. He has something very unique and I love how well his SS'13 collection showcases that fact. 

 Burberry Prorsum

In Part I of my LFW review, you will have probably noticed how often the space-age trend popped up for SS'13. Well, if you were to pick out one designer who took this trend and went to town with it, it would be Burberry Prorsum without a shadow of a doubt. Metallic trenches in shades of pink, blue, green and everything in between were accompanied with over-sized satin finish jackets which cocooned the body and fastened at the neck to allow a peek-a-boo of what lay underneath. Cropped capes which finished midway down the bicep and foil t-shirts, skirts and dresses showcased a very appealing way to dive into the space age trend for Spring 2013. I particularly loved the menswear with colourful bombers, metallic shine shirts and some very cool sunglasses which kind of had a Terminator feel to them. The purple bomber shown above would actually look great on blogger Jordan Porteous of My Style Ramblings: as soon as I saw it, I immediately thought it would be right up his street. If you haven't heard of his blog until now, I definitely recommend checking it out.

Giles Deacon

Ahh Giles Deacon. This collection would make anyone want to risk the seven years bad luck and smash a mirror. "A good smashed window can be quite beatiful in the right part of town" - Giles Deacon backstage at his SS'13 show. That it most certainly can. Especially when you throw in some nature prints and a winged horse or Pegasus if you will. Who knew that a full skirted dress would look absolutely fabulous with a huge horse printed on the front? The colours and uniqueness of the collection were what initially caught my eye and ultimately secured it's place on this review. It is different from anything else at both NY or LDN fashion week this month and I just can't stop inspecting each little section of detail on those smashed window garments. 

London Fashion Week: Part I

London Fashion Week:
Spring/Summer 2013 - Part I

Do you all remember who I am? I feel as though I haven't written any proper content for Vita di Moda in a few months, rather than only a few days: that's what happens when you treat your blog as though it's your livelihood and career, eh? If you read my last post entitled "FYI", then you will know that the reason for my absence was due to moving from Glasgow to Newcastle for university and that I've been a little preoccupied with course inductions, moving in and meeting some new people. Now that I've got my inductions out of the way though, I can now put all of my focus and concentration back here and get some reports done for London Fashion Week. As you know, fashion week in London kicked off last week and actually finished today so I thought it would be a good idea to just write a collaboration and bring you little snippets from a few of my favourite shows in one big post. Well, two posts. There are a lot of shows from LFW that I want to share with you - what with LDN being so innovative and eclectic and all - so I'm going to split it into two parts, with part II coming tomorrow morning so make sure you check back in for that!

Antoni & Alison

I have to say that Antoni & Alison always catch my attention when it comes to fashion week. Their collections remind me of a class that I took at Glasgow School of Art, where we visited a Mackintosh exhibition and then created child-like pieces of art using the inspiration we sourced from our visit, which we then scanned into photoshop and then created repeat patterns to print onto fabric. That is the same kind of principle that Anthony & Alison used when designing their SS'13 collection: locked in their studio for 4 days just creating art and collaborating their end results. The outcome for the SS'13 collection? Sheer fun, imagination and a sense of simplicity in the midst of all the chaos. I love how 3D everything looks and just how something simple such as a squiggly pen mark on paper can transform into a pretty interesting print. It reminds me why I have a love of art, fashion and design in the first place.

Bora Aksu

The main thing which drew my attention to this SS'13 collection by Bora Aksu is the hosiery. How amazing are those tights? The head gear is a little Bishop-meets-Burker-King-kids-party, but anything goes at London Fashion Week. The first few pieces in the collection seemed more couture in the sense that they were great to admire, but not to wear however as the collection progressed, more and more looks started to stand out as winners. In a prominently blue-hued collection, the pop of yellow was a welcomed sight and like I said at the beginning, those tights were one piece that I felt I really wanted to pull off come SS'13. The sheer fabrics and layering were a trend which seemed to have crossed 'the big pond' from NYFW and made it's mark in LDN - a trend which I absolutely love: especially when it is in the form of a rain coat or overlay top. Overall the collection was fun, colourful and exactly the type of thing that you expect to see from LFW. 

Sass & Bide

Sass & Bide is missing a Y on the end of Sass in this collection. Pops of colour from coral pants and gorgeous cocktail dresses with furry bell shaped skirts: plunging V necklines and of course my favourite accessory: the reflective metal waist belt. The subtle print and embroidery details on some of the looks from the SS'13 collection are gorgeous and exactly what the collection needed to save itself from looking too flat in comparison to other shows from LFW this week. Sex appeal came in the form of thigh high slits, bare shoulders and a sneaky peak at the decolletage. It is a collection which could fit in at both NYFW & LFW and that is perhaps why I have taken a shine to it so much: I love the elegant and polished looks from NYC mixed in with the originality and edge from LDN. 

John Rocha

Initial reaction when I laid eyes on the John Rocha SS'13 collection? These girls have forgotten to take off their shower caps. Head gear like this is just a little OTT and unnecessary in my opinion, but then again, LDN does what it likes and doesn't form to any specific ideal. The clothes themselves were gorgeous however: cotton candy-esque dresses and pants in sheer fabrics (again, also seen at NYFW) of blush, white and red soon turned into a darker, edgier woman with nipped in waists, cropped & full length jackets, solid black lines and gave off a very sophisticated and powerful vibe. The John Rocha woman is one of good taste, but not to be messed with. 

Preen

Flirty florals mixed with deadly python - this is exactly something that appeals to me: hard with soft. Edgy yet simple enough to be worn by any woman. The boxy, over-sized T-shirt silhouette in the shirts and dresses is another feature that was seen at NYFW this month and I absolutely love the little sheer, peek-a-boo panel on the white shirt to the right there. The shapes seen at Preen were very space age-y and I think it is safe to say that women everywhere will be sporting their intergalactic sides come SS'13. Designers from Alexander Wang to now Preen have shown this style in their Spring/Summer collections and have definitely set the trend in stone - better start channeling you inner Katy Perry E.T now in preparation. 

Marios Schwab

Marios Schwab showed us a variety of ways to wear fringing for SS'13 in a collection full of brightly coloured leather, chiffon and tulle. Again, the space age feeling came through on the catwalk, especially with the models makeup and the print used on some of the looks. The middle image above for example resembles the light panels seen on the bottom of a Hollywood movie UFO. I think this particular trend will be interesting for SS'13, as there are various ways to incorporate it into your looks: from fringe detailing to abstract prints or even just in the form of a statement necklace. Everyone will be able to indulge their alien sides and I think I might just try it out too. The raspberry pink leather dress shown above featuring floating panels, much like the entire collection from Alexander Wang might just be the way in which I adopt the trend!

Matthew Williamson

Half tutti frutti, half bleach dip dye. The opening looks from Matthew Williamson's SS'13 collection featured blazers, shirts and trousers all in dip-dye with a look that resembles those badly processed photographs that you would receive from disposable camera's back in the 90's. I absolutely love it. I have already added the trousers to my wishlist for Spring/Summer however I'm wondering how difficult it would be to attempt a DIY and replicate something similar? The second half of the collection was a mish-mash of colours - each look in the same staple colour hue - which created a nice sense of flow and movement: Almost like a sunset, or when an orange sky melts into the blue ocean beneath it. The collection was definitely stunning and one of my favourites from LFW this season. 

Mary Katrantzou

Large, over-sized postage stamps. That was the main designs from Mary Katrantzou's SS'13 collection and what a collection it turned out to be. Being the queen of print, it was hardly a surprise that she would create something of this stature, however I'm pretty sure it has enough wow-power to influence the most conservative of women to try and incorporate a little print into their Spring/Summer wardrobes next season. My favourite look had to be the satin blue trouser suit shown left above. I probably wouldn't adopt both pieces at the same time, however the trousers would have the power to remain one of my wardrobe staples for a long time after SS'13 - I'm not one of these people who pack away clothes in preparation for a new season. I like to mix everything. This collection is one that has inspired me for the coming season and I can't wait to see how the high street will interpret it for the mass market. 

Look out for Part II tomorrow!

Photo credit: vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore.

FYI: Update!

FYI

Hello from Newcastle! That was a little corny, but whatever: I just wanted to give you all a little update on things that are currently happening in my life just now, and that in turn will give you the reason as to why there aren't many posts or updates happening at Vita di Moda over the last couple of days - it actually feels like months, but there you go. 

I moved to Newcastle on Saturday morning, so with unpacking and getting to know people in my university halls and course, I've been a little too preoccupied to blog and talk about LFW - trust me, this is hard for me too. I haven't even had a chance to look at any of the shows yet!! So yeah, university. I made sure to unpacked everything over the weekend because today, tomorrow and Thursday is being spent attending my course inductions. I'm actually just back from one and guess what? I'm going to NYC in February for a week! It took every ounce of effort not to jump out of my chair with utter glee when my lecturer Christopher Hodge told us that - hopefully it'll be around Fashion Week and I can maybe slip away from the uni group for a day or two to get a press pass for some shows to blog about. That could be an idea actually.
We were given some general information about the course, what we're going to be doing, who our lecturers are and some other bits n' pieces - my lecturers have a serious amount of industry experience, so it's going to be really exciting getting their feedback and help forming my career once I graduate in three years time.

So yeah, that's a little update for just now. I promise to get some LFW reports up soon, even if it's just a collaborative one rather than one for each of the best shows (in my opinion, obviously). 

Thanks for sticking with me xo