Ottoman Opulence at Chanel

One of Karl Lagerfeld's favourite quotes is this one by Goethe: Make a better future by developing elements from the past. How aptly that fits with the theme of the Chanel 2011 pre-fall collection: 'Paris/Byzance', which was directly inspired by the art and heritage of the lost Byzantine Empire. There was a lot going on in the 67 looks shown: relaxed daytime silhouettes, tweed suits and some stunning gowns. As usual, with Chanel, the finishing touches and attention to detail were meticulous: you can see Byzantine mosaic details incorporated into the clothes; Ottoman opulence in the flecks of gold throughout the tweed; and like Byzantine princesses, the models wore their hair in perfect chignons boules in the manner of Byzantine princesses.

Chanel Pre Fall 2011

Chanel Pre Fall 2011

Chanel Pre Fall 2011

Chanel Pre Fall 2011

Chanel Pre Fall 2011

Chanel Pre Fall 2011

Chanel Pre Fall 2011

Chanel Pre Fall 2011

British Fashion Awards 2010

Edward Meadham and Ben Kirchoff

Back in September, when the nominees were first announced, I posted about the British Fashion Awards which were held last night at the Savoy. I put my money on Meadham Kirchoff to win the Emerging Talent award, and they did!! So very well deserved. I also predicted that Erdem would walk away with designer of the year; however this accolade went to Pheobe Philo for her creativity at Celine. In retrospect, this should have also been obvious and she definitely should have won but I just love Erdem! Maybe next year will be his year!??

Not Another Fashion Blog Loves Wolf and Badger

It is so rare nowadays to find a boutique that really excites you and draws you in.  However, shopping at the Wolf and Badger concept store on Ledbury Road can only be described as an immensely pleasurable experience. As soon as you enter the store, the friendly and attentive staff are only too happy to show you around and share their knowledge about the 72 unique designer brands they stock. I always discover something new and beautiful whenever I visit so I recommend going: it is worth the trip.

Top of my Christmas list is a talisman necklace from Vancouver based design company, Pyrrha. Inspired by 19th century wax seals, each pendant comes with a card explaining the meaning behind the design. My favourite: the silver 'Five Fleur de Lis'. In Latin the inscription translates as 'Virtue is Its Own Reward'.The Fleur de Lis are a sign of European royalty, representing life and light.

Pyrrha Talisman Pendant

Trend: Graphic Prints

Embrace the digital age by introducing graphic prints to your cocktail wear this Christmas.

Peter Pilotto AW 10

Emilio de la Morena AW 10

Jean Pierre Braganza AW 10

Krystof Strozyna AW 10

  

Styling Tip: Add a further futuristic twist with your accessories with these Finsk wedge booties, which are definitely more Barbarella than Cinderella.

Finsk

Not Another Fashion Blog x Glenfiddich Explorers

In September, I was commissioned by Glenfiddich Explorers to come up with a Schott's Miscellany style list of the best Men's fashion weeks around the globe. Doing the research for this was the most fun given my interest in the subject of men's fashion, so I made new discoveries, such as Men's Fashion Weeks in India and Sweden, as well as getting to write about established labels/designers I love (Zegna, Bottega Veneta, Kris van Assche to name a few).

Check it out here on the Glenfiddich Explorers website:

http://t.co/2s4Gduk

xxx

Party Dress Perfection

T'is the season for shining a little bit extra brightly, so never was there a better time to perk up your party pieces. This perfect silk and tulle party dress comes courtesy of one of my favourite brands: Sandro. J'adore! 

High Street Heads Up

Love that hats are coming more and more back into fashion every day - as I have posted before I think a hat completes any outfit and adds a stylish flair. Topshop are doing a great line at the moment. My favourites are the nod-to-the-70s knitted turbans; the pom pom beanies; and lastly I had to include this bow beret (very early days Blair Waldorf).

Styling Tip: Wear this beret with matching primary colour tights or red lipstick.

She wore a raspberry beret.

Knitted Pom Pom Beanie

Faux Fur Pom Pom Beanie

Brooch Detail Turban

Pearl Embellished Turban