Wardrobe Intimacy: Lauren Briggs shares her key pieces with us!

This week fashion student, Lauren Briggs, shares with us her key wardrobe pieces as part of our new feature ‘Wardrobe Intimacy’.
Enjoy!

My Key Wardrobe Pieces :- By Lauren Briggs

Nude Heels

These are my favourite shoes amongst my vast collection of peeptoes, platforms and patents.

Being a typical student, I turn to the high street for the new outfits I am compelled to buy for the many upcoming events in my social calendar…and as high street fashion is sometimes well, cheap (and not to mention reoccurring…i.e. you walk into a bar and spot a girl working the exact same floral printed dress as you…horror!), I tend to buy a special pair of shoes, and suddenly the bargain LBD I grabbed in a sale, becomes an expensive showstopper.

These nude Kurt Geiger stilettos have just enough detail to make a statement, and they go with almost every outfit in my ever-growing wardrobe!

The LBD

Out of my 24 little black dresses, (shocking, I know) there is one which is my absolute beloved. It’s a black Topshop jersey version of Preen’s most wanted piece from their 2008 A/W collection. Plunging neckline, clinging waist and slouching pockets, this LBD creates gorgeous curves and never fails me.

The T-shirt

For those off-duty days I like to throw on a slouchy tee and city shorts.

This tee is perfect as it’s made of linen, so it’s cool and comfortable. I bought it from Zara, which is one of my favourite shops on the high street. I love their relaxed but edgy style.

The jacket

I love to team a grunge piece with pretty florals or vintage blouses for that effortless rock chic effect. I grabbed this one in the Topshop Sale and its perfect for summer as it’s cropped and lightweight. But what I really love about this jacket is the asymmetric style, I wear it open so it drapes coolly.

Spring boots from Miss Selfridge

This year, I found shoe trends to be the most interesting. We’ve seen everything from clogs to courts and kittens to canvas. My favourite shoe trend this year has been the laced up boot. I found a gorgeous pair at Miss Selfridge on the high street. I’ve worn them all the way through spring and they are still perfect for summer and late autumn. With a pretty vintage feel they take any outfit from day to night!

Harem trousers

Again, I headed to Topshop to look for the past season’s staple trouser; the harem. I went for the casual jersey pair instead of the cool tailored style. They look effortlessly chic and are so comfortable with a drawstring waist for those chocolate-binging days!

DKNY bag

Every girl needs the perfect handbag. Nicknamed “The Bucket Bag” because of its obvious resembling shape, this is, and has been for the past year, my perfect bag. I’m usually a tan leather addict, but when I spotted this patent black DKNY number I fell for it immediately. It’s been true love ever since.

To be featured in our ‘Wardrobe Intimacy’ feature and share your key pieces, please email yolande@lagenevenorth.co.uk

RRI hair products : A First Aid Kit for hair

The amazing new range of RRI hair products is like a first aid kit for hair. With every area covered, these products will keep your hair looking gorgeous no matter what the condition. From hair cleansing to conditioning and styling, there is a products for every hair type and every hair trauma.

We caught up with Luke Walton, International Artistic Director, Rainbow Room International, Glasgow, to get some top hair tips and learn more about this fantastic new range!

1. What tips can you offer, for looking after your hair during the summer months?
• You wouldn’t wash your best silk dress in washing up liquid would you? Well the same rule applies to your hair, which is on show to the world every day! Invest in the best products and services you can afford to keep your hair looking its best.

• If you are out in the sun all day, use a UV protection spray or wear a hat. The sun’s harmful rays can damage your hair by fading the colour and leaving it frazzled.

• Always use a heat protection spray when heat styling, this stops hair from suffering every time you style.

• If you are sunbathing, rinse your hair in fresh water then apply Must conditioner to ends and mid-lengths. Leave in all day for an added moisture boost.

• Rinse hair in cool water rather than hot water, this will help keep your colour bright and shiny.

What makes the RRI hair products unique?
Our products are all holistic in their approach to haircare. Designed for easy and frequent use, they contain no man made silicones or plastics and can truly repair hair. The RRI hair product range is like a first aid kit for hair. With every area covered, these products will keep your hair looking gorgeous no matter what the condition. From hair cleansing to conditioning and styling, there is a product for every hair type and every hair trauma.

Which three products from the range would you consider to be 'must haves' ?
Restore Cleanser
An exceptional and versatile shampoo designed to restore the PH balance of chemically processed hair. This shampoo has a development phase of two minutes, but the longer you leave it the better your hair will look and feel. It moisturises and enhances the hair, leaving it noticeably softer and healthier.

Must
A unique hair and skin conditioner formulated with conditioning agents, soothing emollients and plant extracts.
Must is a multifunctional product and can be used as a moisturiser or aftersun as well as a conditioner for your hair. Can be rinsed as normal and once a week used as a leave in conditioner for an extra moisture boost. Enhances shine and adds body.

Glossette Styling Spray
A light-weight styling spray specially formulated with Vitamin B5 to help improve the condition of damaged hair and conditioners to create incredible shine while improving strength and manageability. The unique formula adds long lasting body and protects hair from heat during styling leaving hair looking and feeling cared for.

END

For more info visit www.rainbowroominternational.com

A Quick interview with Parisian label 'Malam' ...

How would you define your style?

Feminine, timeless, effortlessly cute with a little edge :)

What inspired the name of your brand?

It's a made-up word formed with letters of my name - Incidentally, it means "night" in Indonesian, which I quite like :-)

Tell us a bit about your current collection and the inspirations behind it?

My current collection, called "Poupées Perdues" is mostly inspired by childhood, fairytales, and historical clothing. Sprinkle a little bit of romantic classicism on it, and voilà ! I do not actually work with seasonal collections, I have one permanent collection, within which I add new designs from time to time (which will be on the catwalk at the show ), and delete some of the older ones I have seen too much. Although it is permanent, it is in constant evolution, since I always use different materials to recreate each design.

Which fabrics do you enjoy working with?

I mainly work with natural fabrics (cotton, linen, silk), because they are dyeable. And lace, lots of lace! Part of the fun in making the garment is playing with the fabric first, making it more interesting. Then I use a lot of vintage textiles, as well as upholstery materials. In terms of patterns, I am very partial to plaid and paisley :) When I buy material, I don't usually know what it will end as; if I can picture at least one of my designs in it, then it's good to go. As a result, I have heaps and heaps of textiles of various origins, colors, patterns, composition... and I love being able to choose every time before cutting - It's like having a small fabric shop for myself :).

If you could choose any celebrity to front your campaign who would it be?

I'd probably choose Lily Allen, I love her quirky, independent style and her self-confidence.

What has been your biggest challenge?

So far, it has been to try and reason myself, not to let my imagination run wild when creating new designs, that is, getting them to fit logically inside my line. Ideas just spring up all the time, it can be hard to concentrate :-)

What have been some of the highlights?

I've been lucky to take part in various shows in France, where I've been able to showcase my collection and meet my customers "in real life" which was quite exciting (since I sell my designs mostly through the Internet). I've had numerous mentions in blogs and websites, and have sold my designs in more than 30 countries, reaching as far as North America, Russia, South Korea, Japan, and New Zealand.

What, for you, is exciting in fashion right now?

I don't look at trends, for I don't find interesting to fit in them, and don't want to be influenced. What I love is the fact there are so many "young" designers, who each offer their own outlook on fashion and clothing in general, and it always amazes me to see so much talent sprouting everywhere, obviously, not everything has "already been done" :)

Do you have an ultimate favourite designer, and why?

I absolutely love John Galliano, for his eccentricity, his perfectly "over-the-top" designs!

What would you like to see more of in fashion?

More colors, more eccentricity, more "unwearable" worn :-)

For tickets and further information visit:
W: http://www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/
W: http://www.malam.fr/

Welcome to our new newsletter! – July 2010

Welcome to our new newsletter! – July 2010

We have been gearing up for London Fashion Week which is fast approaching with less than two months to go!!

This season we will be having a two day showcase of our flagship LFW ‘A La Mode’ Catwalk due to popular demand.

Above pic: Model in Jonathan Liang

The event will take place at our luxurious venue of choice, The Charing Cross Hotel in Strand, just a few minutes walk from the official Somerset House on September 17-18 September.

Limited public tickets have been released which are available via http://www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/events.html . Please note once they are gone no further tickets will be allocated to members of the public.

Some of the International designers and brands we will be showcasing this season include Malam (Paris), Nikolo Bertok (UK), Berit Bert New York, Tom Lipop (London, as seen on Project Catwalk), Amato Couture (Dubai), Jonathan Liang (Malaysia) and Kate Williams (Australia).


The full Catwalk schedule can be viewed at http://www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/alamodeschedules2010.html


ALAN XAN KOCA LFW CATWALK SHOW:


This season will see us host a private invitation only Catwalk show for the highly acclaimed Hamburg label Alan Xan Koca! The show is scheduled to take place on Saturday 18th September at 13.00 .




Using techniques such as draping, ruffling, fringing and braiding on a skilfull played palette of colours, Alan Xan Koca makes women feel like Goddess draped in cashmere, silk and leather.


For press/industry passes please email Theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk / info@lagenevenorth.co.uk


Bon Vivant Concierge

Bon Vivant is the bespoke, highly personalised concierge service that advises on and arranges every travel, lifestyle and leisure need. Members have access to exclusive treatment, complimentary benefits and discounts at top hotels, restaurants, members’ clubs, exclusive nightclubs and a range of lifestyle services as well as access to VIP and sold out events.

Bon Vivant are delighted to offer La Geneve North’s members their special rate of £100 per month with a £100 joining for the monthly membership or £1,200 for the annual membership, or a reduced hourly rate of £35 for non-members.

For affordable luxury with the personal touch for £100 per month, visit http://www.bonvivant.co.uk/ , email info@bonvivant.co.uk or call 0207 278 0642.

Clothes Show Live

We nipped down to the Clothes Show London event recently and spotted some fantastic brand.
Also showcasing was couture designer Zi of Zed Eye (http://www.zedeye.com/ ) whose pieces have been recently see worn by the likes of Kelis and praised by British designer Henry Holland.

To read our ‘Clothes Show’ feature visit: http://lgn-events.blogspot.com/2010/06/untold-at-clothes-show-live-london.html

Young Designer Awards

Our events assistant, Leanne Garret won young designer of the year award for her outstanding graduate collection last weekend. A big congrats to her and her continued success.

Find out more about Leeanne at: http://www.wix.com/leeanneripley/leeanne-ripley

Our Events Schedule

Stay updated with our events schedule by visiting the following link: http://www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/events.html

This month’s feature articles:

5 Mins with emerging designer Flik Hall – http://lgn-events.blogspot.com/2010/07/5-mins-with-emerging-label-flik-hall.html

Sarah Curran: Wonder Woman of the e-tail world - http://lgn-events.blogspot.com/2010/07/sarah-curran-wonder-woman-of-fashion.html

Last Season’s ‘A La Mode’ Catwalk video - http://lgn-events.blogspot.com/2010/04/last-seasons-la-mode-catwalk-video.html

5 mins with Nikolo Bertok - http://lgn-events.blogspot.com/2010/07/5-mins-with-emerging-designer-nikolo.html

Be sure to stay posted on our happenings via our blog –
http://www.lgn-events.blogspot.com / and website www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk

The La Geneve North Events Team x

To unsubscribe email ‘unsubscribe’ to info@lagenevenorth.co.uk

Catching up with designer Kate Williams...

She will be showcasing her wearable yet forward thinking designs during London Fashion Week this coming season and was a finalist at the Australian Fashion Design Awards. A name to watch out for, we quickly caught up with designer Kate Williams to learn more about her label...

Tell us about your design philosophy.

I aim to design clothes with women, their bodies and their lifestyle needs in mind. It is extremely important to me that the clothing I design is eminently wearable and comfortable as well as forward-thinking and stylish. Achieving the balance between style, comfort and lifestyle needs is a challenging one, but one that I feel is crucially important to the modern, active and intelligent woman, and I feel privileged to be able to take up that challenge!

What inspired you to pursue a career in the fashion industry?

I was studying law at university when I realised that I wanted to do something much more creative with my career. I undertook an internship with the amazing girls, Margaret and Michelle, at MXM Couture in Brisbane to see if fashion design could be the right avenue for me. My time with them was so inspiring and motivating. They instilled me with such a passion for design and the craftsmanship of clothing, that I left Law and embarked upon my new direction!

You were a finalist in the Australian Fashion Design Awards in 2006, how did it feel for your talent to be recognised?

The Australian Fashion Design Awards was a great experience and I felt incredibly excited and honoured to have my work shown on a national platform. The most valuable outcome of the Awards was the tremendous feedback I received from the public. It was great to be acknowledged by my peers, but receiving such a widespread, positive response from fashion consumers really gave me the validation that I was on the right track.

The following year you were offered a position in the Golden Key International Honour Society, how did this have an impact on you?

This was the unexpected result of a lot of hard work and I was so pleased to be recognised in this way!

Who would you choose to be your ideal muse?

I find it quite limiting to choose a particular person as a muse. I know from my own experience that women play so many different roles throughout their lives and, indeed, throughout a single day (!) that working from a single muse would not be enough for me to develop a well-rounded collection. Many individual women inspire me every day and I use aspects of all these different women in each collection.

In terms of your design philosophy, do you relate to any other fashion designers?

I suppose I relate largely to the approach that designers such as Donna Karan and Issa take towards design. The woman who wears the clothes must be paramount when developing each new collection. The clothes must both feel comfortable and look fabulous!

Tell us about the inspiration for your current collection.

The inspirations behind my new collection are multifarious. The differences and similarities between individual human bodies was a key influence which was coupled with a further exploration of the concept of 'the other'. The common structural elements of our bodies are explored through cut and print and juxtaposed with slightly off-kilter colour play. This results in a compelling collection within which visual elegance is coupled with a more visceral response.

END

For tickets and further information visit:
W: www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk
W: http://www.katewilliams.net/

5 mins with emerging label Flik Hall...

What inspired you to enter the fashion world?
My mum was an antique dealer when I was growing up so I became fascinated with fine details really early on. I have always been very aware of fashion and how much it is influenced by our culture. What we choose to dress ourselves in whether it is glamourous or not tells a story and shows how we feel which is where my main interest for fashion stems from. I always saw myself as an Artist and being a Designer was my way to combine Art with the human body.

How was it like working at House of Holland and Giles Deacon?
Both were very different and a great experience. I don’t think any designer is fully aware of what they’re going into until they have worked in the industry.


Tell us a bit about your current collection and the inspirations behind it?
My current collection is inspired by porcelain doll limbs that I found both confronting and intriguing. I wanted to create a visual dialogue about the possibilities and limits of body modification. I tried to portray this using prints of body parts mixed with goat hair making the outcome seem half human, half animal, creating an aesthetic that is beautiful only on the border of disgusting.

Which fabrics do you enjoy working with?
I like to use a high octane mix of materials. For my new Collection I used fabrics such as goat hair, coarse raffia, and pearly leather. I like to use fabrics with contrasting features that contrast with each other.

What has been your biggest challenge?
Money, production, time...

What's your two favourite fashion items for this year?
The Givenchy lace up red lace up boots they did this season, an Iris Van Herpen dress – their amazing.

What makes your designs different yet appealing to your target market/buyers? Who is the 'Flik Hall' customer?
Her style is timeless because it’s all about attitude rather than current trends. She will feel confident and powerful in the clothing. Age doesn’t really concern me; I’m more interested in personality and the way a woman carries herself.

If you can select any celebrity to front your campaign who would it be?
Erin O’Connner

Which other designers do you admire?
Hussein Chalayan, Marios Shwab,



Don’t Miss Flik Hall’s show which will be taking place on Saturday 18th September 2010 during London Fashion Week at the Luxurious Charing Cross Hotel.

Press and buyers interested in attending need to email theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk

Limited public tickets are available at www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/events.html

W: http://flikhall.com/

LFW Is Set To Play Host To The Exquisite New SS11 Collection By Parisian Label Malam

Designer Emmanuelle-Marie, a graduate from ESMOD Paris, who holds a love of fun aesthetics, prints and vintage textiles, will unveil her latest S/S11 collection as part of the off-schedule London Fashion Week show ‘A La Mode.’

Emmanuelle-Marie first created the Malam label in 2007 and since then the label has been going from strength to strength as she navigates her way through the fashion world. Her original premise was to breathe life into the world of mainstream fashion through offering different and unique, but still wearable, designs and prints.

A versatile designer, Emmanuelle-Marie likes to experiment, using all kinds of fabrics to create her designs, but with a preference for vintage finds. She incorporates a range of prints and often plays with fun and flirty shapes, in both ready-to-wear and made to measure garments, some being limited edition, alongside an extensive accessories range. Catering for males and females; dresses, skirts, coats and jackets are all lovingly handmade in her studio in east of Paris, where her ideas are both conceived and created.

Her pieces combine a clear love of high-fashion and interesting, intricate prints with styles that women can really wear in their day-to-day lives, encompassing floaty dresses with details such as bows and oversized sleeves. With a desire to break from the ordinary and give something new, Emmanuelle-Marie often styles her romantic pieces with heavy biker boots, mixing fun prints with heavy make-up and gothic settings, in keeping with the feminine meets androgyny trend of the summer.

The Malam SS11 collection is sure to continue with Emmanuelle-Marie’s desire to mix up the fashion world. Eagerly awaited her show will be part of the ‘A La Mode’ International showcase and will take place on Saturday 18 September from 7.30pm.

Press and buyer’s wishing to attend the show should email Terri at Theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk

W: www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk
W: www.malam.fr

Valery Kovalska give us an insight into their brand and why music is one of their major influences…

Why did you choose to pursue a career in the fashion industry?

In general, I did not choose, everything just happened (or maybe it was destined). For a long time I worked as a TV and concert stylist, and sometimes I couldn't find the right item, therefore I would sew pieces of clothing by myself. It was a great experience and even now, when I have my own manufacturing facilities, I still use every opportunity to sew by hand. So one day I realised that I was ready to make a collection and I did it.

Who/What are your biggest influences?

Music. It gives mood to my clothes. People constantly being under different influences. The main thing is to feel yourself and be able to present it right.

Can you describe your collection in three words.

Young, confident, mystery

Tell us about the inspiration for your current collection.

I found my main inspiration in the powers of nature, their beautiness and inscrutability. Colors, shapes and even mood - that's all of them. For a while I have been keen on some kind of psychedelic melancholy in music. And the complete result of this is still unknown. And of course - beautiful faces and personalities always attract and inspire me.

Your collection involves soft and neutral colors, is this common to your
overall design aesthetic?

Actually yes, I liked natural colors very much - from the all pastel shades - to deep blue and coral. But I do adore black

Do you regularly follow what’s happening in the Industry?

Yes, I am constantly watching new collections and fashion stories of well-known and new designers. International fashion informational stream is very fast, designers nowadays should be very informed about what is going on in the fashion industry. To do something new, new or old. There is nothing wrong with it.

Do you favour using any particular fabrics in your designs?

I like to experiment with different textures and I am always looking for new-tech fabrics. But nevertheless I like classic materials - silk, cotton, viscose.

How would you describe your own personal style?

Sex, drugs, rock`n'roll !

What do you enjoy most about designing?

The most amazing process for me is to construct - bringing an idea into life. This step is the most complicated but also the most interesting.

What advice would you give to other young aspiring designers hoping to break into the fashion industry?

First of all you need to be a professional from the beginning and to do everything possible to maintain that.

Don’t Miss Valery Kovalska’s show which will be taking place on Saturday 18th September 2010 during London Fashion Week at the Luxurious Charing Cross Hotel.

Press and buyers interested in attending need to email theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk

Limited public tickets are available at www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/events.html

W: http://val-kovalska.com/

Aussie-Born, London-Based Designer Kate Williams to Debut at LFW

Australian raised designer Kate Williams will send her latest collection down the catwalk at the off-schedule official ‘A La Mode’ show at London Fashion Week in September 2010.

Kate’s previous collections have seen a very modern take on women’s fashion. Combining the shiny futuristic qualities of metal with sheer fabrics and lace, she gives the whole “feminine with an edge” look a whole new direction. Kate works with flattering jersey, nylon, cotton, and wool to create a very individual style and aesthetic, often opting for a bold statement accessory or detail in her pieces, whilst still maintaining classic tailoring as the core recipe to her designs.

Having obtained a BFA (Dist) in Fashion Design at the Queensland University of Technology in 2007, Williams crossed the pond to London where she achieved an MA in Fashion Design from the London College of Fashion in 2010. Such a varied background in experience and education in couture, as well as ready-to-wear has accomplished Kate a unique aesthetic which won her a place as a finalist in the Australian Fashion Design Awards 2006, and being offered a position in the Golden Key Honour Society in 2007.

This dedicated go-getter is set to take the fashion industry by storm and her designs have the ability to seriously propel her career.

The ‘A La Mode’ show hosted by La Geneve North Events will take place at the prestigious Charing Cross Hotel in London on 17th-18th September 2010.

For tickets and further information, please contact Theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk
W: www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk
W: http://www.katewilliams.net/

Ukrainian designer brings a hard-rock edge to London Fashion Week

Valery Kovalska is to showcase her latest stage-worthy collection at the off-schedule London Fashion Week show, ‘A La Mode.’

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Valery showed her first prêt-a-porte collection at Ukrainian Fashion Week 2010, followed by Russian Fashion Week in Moscow. Her “Just Hard Rock’n’Bird” collection was produced using quiet colors with mystical ascents for the dark side of human soul, and took inspiration from bird feathers as well as rock n roll musicians who provide much of her audience. In June 2010, Valery’s second collection “Young Boys’ Games” was shown during Holiday Fashion Week in Odessa (Ukraine).

Valery’s main goal is to create an unforgettable image which fully represents a person’s individuality. Having designed performance outfits for numerous pop and rock acts, Kovalska was the first Ukrainian designer to provide practical and professional outfits for modern dance. She has also been endorsed by TV shows including “Shans” and “Lubov & Musika” as well as the Ukrainian version of American Idol.

This sort of exposure has set her in good stead for an international fashion career, into which her next foray will be the London Fashion Week Show ‘A La Mode,’ taking place at the Charing Cross Hotel on Saturday 18th September 2010.

Valery Kovalska – a designer sure to bring a rock edge to LFW this season.

For further information visit:
W: www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk
W: www.val-kovalska.com

Sarah Curran – Wonder Woman of the Fashion ‘Etail’ World.

So the LGN Team recently had the pleasure of meeting the lovely Sarah Curran (Founder of my-wardrobe.com ) at the Soho Boutique Hotel to learn more about her online fashion empire and role as a buyer. Our Farhana Nazir explores what this amazing woman has achieved and why she has helped reform the online shopping revolution ...

Buying an entire new designer wardrobe (I must stress), without even lifting a finger (well apart from when you click ‘proceed to checkout’) is no longer the work of dreams. Net-savvy, fashionable favourite Sarah Curran co-founder of the online premium ‘etailer’ My-Wardrobe has been making dreams come true since launching the website four years ago. “Accessible luxury” is Sarah’s business motto, stocking top class designers including Vivienne Westwood, Acne, Mulberry and Pringle. The business is based between Nottingham, which houses customer services, warehouse and accounts and London where the PR, marketing, buying and creative magic happens.

The transition from her extremely successful Crouch End boutique, Powder, to the virtual online shopping scene may, to some appear quite an unusual step, but for Sarah it was just the opportunity she was looking for. Having spotted a gap in the ‘etail’ (online sister of the bricks and mortar version; ‘retail’) market which she explains consisted of either, “uber luxury or copy cat fashion”, she decided to fill it. Wanting to offer high-end fashion at attainable price points was the mission she launched this business with. Four years on and My-Wardrobe sits perfectly between online rivals ASOS and Net –A –Porter.

Having left education at 18, Sarah did a lot of work experience before working with brands such as L’Oreal and News International. “I temped, first at News of the World, then The Times. I could see where online was going, and wanted to get in on that.” Her knowledge of the internet and drive for seeking out better ways of doing business having owned a boutique allowed her to pool together her talents and passion for great clothes and set up online. She believes the online fashion retail success comes from total dedication to the brand you’re setting up and the obvious, financial security.

So, for those of you looking to mirror Sarah’s achievements, the lady her self proclaims “to completely believe in your product – it’s a 24/7 experience, so you have to completely believe in every element of the business. Making sacrifices goes without saying.” She’s a success story speaking right before you. Capture her words like gold dust and set off on your own blazing path of fashion shoots, PR meetings, brainstorming features, merchandising and LOTS of sacrifices along the way.

For more information visit www.my-wardrobe.com

Street Trend of the Day!!

CONCRETE CATWALK REPORT! : - Spotted by Farhana Nazir

Denim Squared

Lovely Libs from Birmingham sporting this summer’s ultra chic denim on denim look. Unfussy, uncomplicated perfection!

Playsuit: New Look
Shirt: Paul Smith
Sandals: Office
Sunglasses: Vintage

A Quick interview with My Fair Lingerie designer Rae-Emily Smith...

My Fair Lingerie recently showcased at our Movida Summer Soiree Catwalk show showcasing their gorgeous bespoke intimate pieces. We caught up with the designer behind the brand, Rae-Emily Smith to learn more about her new label.

Why did you decide to specialise in lingerie?

I always knew i wanted to do something fashion related but lingerie has always been something I was drawn to. I have a bit of a lingerie addiction and have been banned on quite a few occasions from buying anymore by my friends and family. Whilst deciding on Universities to apply to I got a leaflet in the post by chance which mentioned the contour fashion course at De Montfort University - The only degree course in the world to specialise in lingerie, underwear, bodywear and swimwear. I completed a foundation year in art and design at DMU and was accepted onto the contour course.

What makes your pieces unique?

All of the garments are hand made to order by myself. My pieces tend to be a bit quirky and i try to offer customers something a bit different to what is already available. I think that there is definately a gap in the market for pretty, feminine nightwear and lingerie which i wanted to fill.
If you could pick any celebrity in the world to model your pieces who would it be?

Probably someone like Emma Watson as she is an intelligent, beautiful, woman and a good role model. Also Katy Perry as she has a quirky style and fun loving attitude.

What has been some of your career highlights?

My Fair Lady was only founded last year so it is still quite early days but showcasing my new collection at movida was a great experience and one that i learnt a lot from, It was also the first catwalk that i have done so will always be something that stands out to me. The last few months have been very busy and i have had a lot of interest in the brand. Over the next couple of months i have a lot of shoots and exciting projects to work on.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

In 5 years time i would like to see My Fair Lady Lingerie stocked in boutiques. I would also like to introduce a diffusion line which i could have manufactured in a factory so that i could offer more affordable pieces to appeal to a wider market as well as selling the hand made collection.

When you're not designing you're. ..

Catching up with friends and family. I have a thing for old second hand books at the moment and like to read when i get the time. As i am still at University a lot of time is spent on my uni work during term time although i have a lot more free time to relax now that it is the summer break.

Find out more about My Fair Lingerie at http://myfairladylingerie.com/

Romanian designer Belinda Liu gives us an insight into her world of fashion...

We caught up with Romanian Designer, Belinda Liu, who will be showcasing her fabulous designs at the 'A La Mode' London Fashion Week Catwalk show in September, to learn more about her brand and why she's a fan of Karl Lagerfield and Vivienne Westewood... Read on


1. What inspired you to pursue a career in the fashion industry?

I have been leaving a mark on garments that came into my hands as far back as I can remember. Be it coloring trousers, changing appearance of shoes, making dresses for myself, or even for my dolls back when I was a kid. Pursuing a career came naturally, I guess. I felt I could dress up others, doing it for myself only was half the satisfaction.

2. What is your main source of inspiration in designing?

Sex.

3. You say that your philosophy on your fashion line is trying to obtain perfection in feminism. What do you consider the perfect feministic look and why is this the main source and inspiration for your collection?

Women are supposed to be women. That is why we actually all love them. I can think of no reason to justify a distortion of that. While seeking perfection in feminism I think back of women's origin. Of their original role. Delicate, sensual, beautiful and yet so powerful. This is what brings a collection to life. A collection is there mere expression women's attributes.

4. What's your favourite decade for fashion?

The twenties.

5. How would you describe your garments in three words?

Glamorous but wearable.


6. What is your favourite season for fashion?

Autumn. Late autumn.

7. Which other fashion designers do you admire?

Karl Lagerfeld for his proficiency (and for preserving Chanel's lines), Vivienne for her attitude.

8. What is the most difficult aspect of running your own label versus i.e. design, production, sales, finance, advertising?

Creation does not always fit together with management. Setting my mind on the day to day management issues... that sucks.

9. What do you hope to have achieved in the industry, 10 years from now?

World wide recognition would be nice.

10. What advice would you give to other aspiring fashion designers?

Don't mind fashion trends

Don’t Miss Belinda’s show which will be taking place on Saturday 18th September 2010 during London Fashion Week at the Luxurious Charing Cross Hotel.
Press and buyers interested in attending need to email theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk

Limited public tickets are available at www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/events.html

http://www.belindaliu.com/

Street Trend of the Day!!

Spotted by Yolande

Model Nana wears this gorgeous African Print Dress designed and made by herself :)

The fabric is a traditional Ghanian Cloth called 'Kente'.

Love it!

5 Mins with Emerging Designer Nikolo Bertok...

We quickly caught up with emerging designer Nikolo Bertok who will be showcasing his new collection during London Fashion Week at the 'A La Mode' Catwalk Show...

What inspired you to enter the fashion world?

I started as a sales assisant in a shop of fine fabrics when I was 15, and so I embarked on a path in fashion very quickly. I did a lot of typical assistant- running duties for designers and companies as you could see in the popular movie The Devil Wears Prada. Then I decided to become a designer in my own right when I was 16-17. I said to myself that I got amazing experience just in one year and met a lot of interesting people and designers from around the world as for example Jean Claude Jitrois in 2007 and his collection which I saw backstage and found truly inspiring.
My mother always dreamed of becoming a Fashion Designer, but she didn´t. So in a way I am making her dreams come true for myself.

What inspires your designs and how do you acquire your creative edge?

This is very personall for me doing a collection. I get inspired by emotions and experiences in my daily life. Trying to be a bit different from other designers. I would like to be part of the process of moving the fashion into a new futuristic aspect. I do acquire my creative edge seeing others wearing my designs. That means I fulfilled my wish/ I achieved my goal to make people feel happy.

Has your experience in the fashion industry matched your perception of the fashion world?

No. It didn't match and it never will. There are always millions of new aspects to be learned and discovered. Fashion is one of the most varied way to express the past experience into a new element. Fashion is about making the history.

You have been likened to acclaimed designer Valentino. What are your thoughts on this and is Valentino an influence in your designs?

It is such an honour to be likened to Valentino in this way as reported in the media, but one must not forget that people are sometimes bewildered and say things such as I am the future Valentino. I would rather say that I am just myself and not pretending to be someone else, nor do I want to be. Everyone is different, which is the most beautiful thing in the world. All great designers such as Valentino, Versace, Margelia, Ferre, Galliano, Chanel or Dior are the names who laid the path for us, new designers. And they play a huge role and have enormous influence on the design of today and the future. I am always amazed by their work, especially of their early collections.

What makes your designs different yet appealing to your target market/buyers? Who is the 'Nikolo Bertok' customer?

A customer who is wearing ´Nikolo Bertok´ is very confident. My designs are for people who are not afraid to show their real and strong personality. People who want to feel different and special, to discover the undiscovered and be always a step ahead of others.



If you had just one word to describe fashion what would it be?

Glory.

For more info on Nikolo Bertok visit www.nikolobertok.com

Interview by Lauren Briggs

Don’t Miss Nikolo Bertok’s show which will be taking place on Friday 17th September 2010 during London Fashion Week at the Luxurious Charing Cross Hotel.
Press and buyers interested in attending need to email theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk

Limited public tickets are available at www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/events.html

Romanian Designer Belinda Liu will command attention at LFW !

No nonsense women’s tailoring expert Belinda Liu will present her SS11 collection for lovers of classic beauty at the off schedule ‘A La Mode’ show in September 2010.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE :-

The self taught designer who found her feet in fashion almost by accident believes that now is the “time for a new revolution…it is about gaining back dignity and personality”. The daughter of a painter, Liu rejects theoretical, structured learning and prefers to design by instinct alone and adheres to a “no risk, no gain” personal tenet. She designs for sexual, powerful women and decrees that simplicity can be sophisticated and innocence can be daring, something reflected by her use of whips and gags as props in her photo shoots.

Flawless classic makeup and the styling of her designs, however, mean that maturity and class are never compromised. Choosing only the highest quality fabrics, her blend of romantic floral prints and translucent materials with harsher more masculine textures of
tweed and leather conjure up the image she intends; striking elegance and glamour with a hint of power that demands respect. Her use of colour meets her high standards of classic
beauty and often contrasts a smart chic black with delicate feminine shades.

Belinda Liu’s latest foray into fashion will be exhibited at the Charing Cross
Hotel on 18th September from 7.30pm to an audience of fashion PRs, press, buyers and members of the public.

Press and buyers wishing to attend, please email: Theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk

For more details on ‘A La Mode’, please go to: http://www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/alamodeschedules2010.html

For more details on Belinda Liu: http://belindaliu.com

Flik Hall’s “Mannequin Parade” to be shown at the ‘A La Mode’ International Showcase.

Flik Hall will be one of the latest designers to showcase at the prestigious ‘A La Mode’ show during London fashion week. A Saint Martins student, Flik Hall’s, bold designs will appear at the show on the 18th September this autumn.

Immediate Release :-

Having finished a degree in print design and worked with the likes of House of Holland and Giles Deacon, Flik Hall’s independent collections spark imminent interest throughout the fashion industry. Her eye-catching designs and futuristic ideals have created a stir and she has been noted as ‘one to watch’ as an up and coming designer.

Flik Hall’s debut season was in spring/summer 2010 which she called ‘Scope of Time’, using inspiration from her father’s obsession with time keeping. Hall showcased a range of bold prints and deep colours in bright blues, peaches and iridescent greens creating an interesting and provoking debut collection

Hall’s spring/summer 2011 collection named ‘Mannequin Parade’ deals with idea of female empowerment and strength in mind, she said ‘I want her to feel confident and powerful in my clothing, and keep my pieces in her wardrobe for years to come’ giving a nod to the importance of longevity in the current market. Her fascination with the human form means her designs involve structured lines and a range of textured materials.


Having created hype at Brighton Fashion Week, Flik Hall’s collection at the ‘A La Mode’ show will be highly popular. The show runs over the 17th & 18th of September at the elegant and cosmopolitan Charing Cross Hotel, and involves a vast range of designers showing their latest collections. Guests attending the event include buyers, press, journalists, PRs and other fashion professionals and enthusiasts.

Press and buyers wishing to attend the show should email Terri at Theresa@lagenevenorth.co.uk

W: www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk/events.html

W: http://flikhall.com/