Friday 27 August 2010

Wardrobe Intimacy: This week Rachel Cowey shares her key pieces with us :)

This week fashionista, Rachel Cowey, shares with us her key wardrobe pieces as part of our ‘Wardrobe Intimacy’ feature.
Enjoy!

My Key Wardrobe Pieces :- By Rachel Cowey


1. The Black Blazer – This can be thrown over any outfit to make you look smart and up-to-date. For an alternative look, buy a blazer with a coloured lining: then you can roll up your sleeves to flash a bit of colour. A trend celebs are already working.


Blazer - Primark


2. The Trench Coat – It is a classic piece for a reason. It is feminine, smart and a little sexy. Ideal for British weather – let’s deal with the rain in style!


Trench Coat - USC


3.The Statement Bag – I use this bag constantly and always get praised for it. I like having a bag that stands out but can be used with practically every outfit I own. Plus it is big enough to fit everything in!


Bag – River Island


4. The Shoes – These are my favourite shoes! I even have them in a dark denim colour. They are just the right height to wear every day and I instantly feel glamorous.


Shoes - Faith

5.The Charm Bracelet – This bracelet is full of my personality. From the aeroplane charm to represent my love for travelling to the Eiffel Tower to show I like speaking French, I love wearing my charm bracelet as it represents me and people always ask me about it.


Bracelet – Thomas Sabo

Monday 23 August 2010

Kai Fragrance: capturing the aromatic essence of all things tropical and natural !!

Kai Fragrances truly capture the aromatic essence of all things tropical and natural. Stemming from the constant battle creator Gaye Straza fought with perfumes that just didn’t agree with her body, she set about creating a new scent that captured her love of white flowers. Being stopped by a beauty editor on Madison Avenue in New York and asked what perfume it was she was wearing was the start of something astounding for the ambitious perfumer.



Currently stocking in exclusive boutiques all over the world, Kai boasts a devout celebrity following with the likes of Hollywood superstar Jennifer Aniston, supermodel Erin Wasson and songstress Cher all admitting their personal addictions to the line of Kai Products. The impressive range includes a body oil, body butter, body buffer, scented candles, body lotion and wash as well as the highly sought after Kai eau du parfum. All Kai products are free from harsh chemicals, animal cruelty and testing free and packaged in recyclable materials.


www.kaifragrance.com

Sunday 22 August 2010

Fearne-tastic Style!!!

No stranger to the public eye, Fearne Cotton (our beloved Radio 1 presenter) never ceases to please us with her presence on and off camera. Her already gorgeous looks are envied by all, but it’s how she uses them in tandem with her wardrobe choices that makes us wonder how to look as effortlessly chic as she does.

Although she may not be in the extreme-dressed category unlike Lady Gaga and Rihanna, Miss Cotton manages to hold her own in the media pretty well. Believe it or not, pulling off a Fearne Cotton inspired ensemble is not as difficult as it seems – with the use of high street brands.
Earlier this very year, Fearne was photographed at the Brit Awards dressed appropriately for the occasion as seen below:

I personally believe that Fearne hit a home run with this ensemble.
However, like every celebrity; Fearne Cotton has also had her share of fashion mistakes. Most recently whilst filming her new ITV2 show with fellow fashionable fatale, Mischa Barton. Fortunately for her, the outfit was not a complete miss.


Words by Haroon

Image Credits:

First image:
http://www.look.co.uk/celebrity/fearne-cotton/pictures/fearne-cotton-at-the-brit-awards-2010

Second image:
http://www.sugarscape.com/main-topics/fashion-beauty/551025/mischa-barton-and-fearne-cotton-make-fashionable-friends

Saturday 21 August 2010

Fashion blogger to give away her fashion pieces throughout September!

Yolande, the blogger behind popular fashion and art blog "La Mode de Yolande" will be launching a fashion give away competition throughout the month of September as London fashion Week approaches. Items up for grabs will range from jewellery to clothing (high street and designer) and even vintage pieces.

Yolande expressed “I give away to charity all the time and have so many quality, stylish pieces from clothing to Jewellery which I have hardly used and don't know whether I will ever use them. I just felt it would be nice to donate the pieces directly to my readers whilst being ethical at the same time".



Each week an item up for grabs will be featured on "La Mode de Yolande" and readers just need to email Yolande stating 'why they want the item'. A winner will be selected at the end of each week until the end of September.


For more information on La Mode de Yolande visit www.yolandeletshou.blogspot.com
E: yolande (@) lagenevenorth.co.uk

About 'La Mode de Yolande'

La mode de Yolande is a blog based on the fashion adventures of a British fashion director named Yolande, who as she describes herself "eats, sleeps, and lives fashion. She even paints fashion pieces ;)".

The blog features exclusive interviews, event happenings, product reviews, Art coverage and all things fashion!

Visit the blog at www.yolandeletshou.blogspot.com

Wednesday 18 August 2010

Stylist Profile: Mariel Haenn

Best known for her styling of Rhianna, Mariel Haenn has been a stylist for over eight years. The half Puerto Rican fashionista boasts a client list full of A-list stars who include – Ciara, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Serena Williams and Lauren Conrad for the girls; Will Smith, P-Diddy, Jay-Z and Mark Ronson for the boys. Her work is regularly seen in magazines such as Instyle and Teen Vogue.

Rihanna:

The fashion industry cites her as one of the best paid and most famous stylists in the business!!!! She has worked on Rihanna’s music videos, Umbrella and ‘Hate that I love you’, and Ciara’s ‘Love, Sex’, ‘Magic and Work’.

Mariel considers Grace Jones as her style icon and is well known for transforming Rihanna’s image from island princess to the sexy, daring look she now sports!!!!!!

Mariel works alongside her partner Rob Zangardi, however worked with a team of thirty plus for Rihanna’s latest tour.

As well as Mr and Mrs Smith, she also styles their children – Jaden and Willow – who are already causing a storm with their radical fashion choices. Mariel is rumoured to be launching a clothing line with Jaden and Willow. Watch this space!

Below pic: Jaden and Willow Smith

Below pic: Willow Smith Photo Credits:
www.bvowstyle.com

Words By Rachel Cowey

Sunday 15 August 2010

FashART Comes to the Natural History Museum to kick off LFW

FashART, the most exclusive and highly sought after event on the eve of London Fashion Week (LFW) is set to take place on the 16th September 2010 at the Natural History Museum. With only a few tickets being released to the most select few amongst the elite. Take your exclusive front row seat, at this unmissable charity dinner gala in aid of Caudwell Children.

FashART Charity event is set to be one of the most glamorous events of LFW. An entertaining evening of couture Fashion merged with Art on the eve of London Fashion Week. Guests will be welcomed into the spectacular Central Hall's Soaring arches, gilt and terracotta ceiling panels and the huge Diplodocus. Surrounded by live model statues body painted on podiums unveiling Karen K's exclusive debut collection of handmade high heels and handbags.

It will commence with a champagne reception in the sumptuous museum, live band will entertain guests with a special celebrity and children dance performance over a 4-course dinner event. FashART fuses fashion, art and entertainment never before seen, within an electric atmosphere all to raise money for a good cause. Guests will be able to auction (silent and live) from an array of prestigious items including art by Romero Britto, exclusive designer watch from TIRET, celebrity signed furniture from the award winning Jimmie Martin and many more rare items. 6 top Fashion Designers including Julien Macdonald, Todd Lynn, Savannah Miller and Ozwald Boateng will unveil a specially created and designed item/ notable sketch for auction.


The lavish audience of 400 guests will consist of an array of celebrities, fashion industry heavyweights, decision makers and high net worth individuals, and key press. All concerned will indulge in the delights of the evening for one night only to raise money for Caudwell Children.

Caudwell Children Charity established 10 years ago by John Caudwell, a national children's charity that provide equipment, treatment, and therapy for sick and disabled children across the UK. Once a year, they organise a trip to Florida for up to 30 sick children and their families with 8 paramedics and 40 volunteers. Its ultimate aim is to build a fully equipped children's medical centre. They have donated over £13 million to over 4,000 children. They are 1 of the only 4 charities that also support autism in the UK. For every £1 that is given to the Caudwell, £2.09 is donated directly. Some of its ambassadors include Elton John, Liz Hurley and Robbie Williams. Caudwell Children is a really wonderful charity doing some amazing work with all sick or disabled children whatever their sickness so come and support this great cause!

The entire evening will be covered and aired by Fashion TV with interviews with charity, celebrities, sponsors, models, guests etc. Get ready for a seductive rewarding evening!

ALL PROFITS FROM THE EVENT AND AUCTIONS GO TO CAUDWELL CHILDREN!

For further information and tickets contact

Andy O on 020 7993 4381 or email: fashart@soireenights.com

Press and Celebrities: email: press@soireenights.com

Single Ticket/ Table of 10 people is £350/ £3,500; £500/ £5,000; £750/ £7,500 (VIP) respectively, Table of 8 with Celebrity + guest - POA

Friday 13 August 2010

Zara Martin: Hot property or What????

Make way, make way! A new style icon has arrived and she goes by the name of Zara Martin. This presenter may just be the hottest thing since Jameela Jamil. After beginning her presenting career with her own show on Current TV, she is now recognised as an MTV presenter, and has built up the fashion status to present this year’s London Fashion Weekend in September. Aside from being a model, presenter and an actress she has also worked with fashion house BodyAmr in designing a Capsule collection, one of which will be launched at London Fashion Week 2010 – excitement!


As we continue to see the star at numerous events, her cutesy bold style is becoming more and more noticeable. She appears to be a big fan of the bold print (particularly leopard) and is not afraid to mix and match – we admire her braveness. Her printed panel dress, tassel clutch and Op Art style heels (centre) are an example of this. The outfit screams out fierce, high from the top of the mountains and we all listen obediently. Key items to her wardrobe are a number of mini dresses, colourful clutches and a range of Charlotte Olympia shoes - the misfit black ankle socks paired with the pink shoes (above) is utterly genius.

Contrasting accessories are a key feature to Zara’s style. The Domakaya clutch bag (below) is indeed the icing to her outfit with its sweet texture, unique shape, fine embroidery and of course, the lovely green eyed monster that follows… She has proven to be one for texture, with a range of luxurious fur jackets and quilted clutches as some of her wardrobe essentials.

Although the presenter appears to be a sucker for the animal print, she also has a tamed side to her style with her long golden locks instantly reflecting the boho trend. This style was carried off at Graduate Fashion Week with her white, goddess ensemble and her cute hippy headgear. So main points to make on the style icon: it is all above the knee where Zara is concerned and there is always a cinched waist belt in the mix, without forgetting the colourful clutch. With all this, her style remains effortless and she is definitely one to watch out for. We must not line up in envy, but take notes.
Words by Samantha Bobb-Lucus

Picture Sources:

www.aceshowbiz.com/events
www.zimbio.com
www.graziadaily.com
www.papermag.com/blogs/zaramartin

Thursday 12 August 2010

Eva Longoria’s Debut Scent Arrives EXCLUSIVELY at The Perfume Shop !!!

The Perfume Shop adds a sprinkling of glamour to the shelves this summer with Eva by Eva Longoria, the beautifully feminine fragrance available EXCLUSIVELY at The Perfume Shop is a beauty must have!

Fittingly named Eva by Eva Longoria, the fragrance truly embodies the world renowned actress’s sparkling personality and timeless elegance from the beautiful bottle design, to its stunning blend of fruity floral scents.

Made with a women who oozes sex appeal in mind, Eva is a beautiful blend of juicy Citrus Notes wrapped with a stimulating trail of Jasmine, Violet and Amber. Sexy, fresh and playful, this scent radiates sensuality and glamour, wearable for any occasion whether day or night, casual or formal.

The fragrance opens with a vivacious cocktail of juicy Citrus, Verbena and Neroli, boosted with a blast of freshness from shower clean Aldehydes. The heart blooms beyond comparison with delicate petals of sheer Jasmine, dewy Freesia, tender Violet and Muguet, whilst lingering skin musks combine with creamy Amber and Sandalwood, resulting in a tantalizing sensuality.

To celebrate the launch of this new scent, The Perfume Shop will also be offering a FREE stylish shoulder bag with any purchase of a 50ml or 100ml Eva by Eva Longoria.

This uber cool moc-croc tote is a great addition to this stylish scent making you look as fabulous as you smell!

Eva is available from The Perfume Shop in EDT Spray 50ml and 100ml prices start at £27.50.

Links:

www.theperfumeshop.com

Wednesday 11 August 2010

Omar Mansoor gives us an Insight into his high end Womenswear Brand!!

Why did you decide to launch your own label?

I started working in fashion at very early age, basically to design clothes for the existing 'social-circle' , hence after completing my education at London College of Fashion, I launched my label and am now working on it full time.

Who do your clothes appeal to?

my clothes are for women are who are confident and not afraid to experiment

If you can choose any celebrity to front your campaign who would it be and why?

Cheryl Cole ....as she is the spitome of glamour and style


Tell us a bit more about the exclusive collection you designed for Royal Ascot 2010
What have been some of your highlights so far?

Royal Ascot collection was specific in a way that it was constructed under the guide lines of the dress code of the event. consisting of one-off pieces in pure silks and chiffons with the theme of the event complimenting with matching millinery.

If you were not a designer you would have been a...

I'm a creative person & if I was not a fashion designer I would have been something equally creative.... may be a Painter or theatre artist

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

eating , sleeping or laughing

W: http://www.omarmansoor.com/

Don’t Omar Mansoor’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

Tuesday 10 August 2010

KHM Couture...Discovering a brand dedicated to serving humanity through fashion

We quickly caught up with Kanwal Malik, the designer behind KHM Couture during her recent trip to London. For those of you who have not yet come across this amazing brand, KHM Couture envisions to serve Humanity through Fashion- and support charity works in Pakistan by donating the sales from the K H M -T shirt to Payaam,An active Ngo for the Underprivileged Children & Old Age Citizens of Pakistan.

Kanwal Malik is an emerging businesswoman from Pakistan. She holds Bachelors in International Business from London & MBA in Marketing. She is a multi-talented entrepreneur with work experience in the banking, sales, import export, forex trading, international franchise & retail management industry. She loves innovation, creativity, decision making, delegating and inspiring leadership and excellence in her network, her employees, and in her friends.


1. Why did you decide to launch your own label?

I decided to launch my label in January 2010. The year of FASHION & major fashion events in Pakistan. The main launch took place in May 2010.

2. Tell us a bit more about your label and the message behind it?

KHM Couture is a label that is established to serve humanity through fashion. A label that envisions to support community work in Pakistan and abroad
by collaborating with singers, social workers, international celebrities, actors, politicians and with influential people " who can make a big impact" on others.

In Pakistan, we support PFBPWO - Pakistan Federation of Business & Professional Women’s Organization, TCF, and PAYAAM. My brand ambassador is IMRAN ABBAS, Leading
model, TV & Film Actor from Pakistan who has a big male and female following.
My brand values are Believe. Behave. Become. HUMAN. We believe in ourselves and in our customers and our potential customers.
As an inspiring brand, we BELIEVE that "Impossible is nothing" when you "BEHAVE" with passion, positive
attitude and maintain respect. That is when you become "better, or successful". And before all that, you need to be a good human being. So believe in others also, behave with
respect, and become a guiding light for all by whatever you do. We envision peace and progress in our country and in the world through this visionary and humanitarian fashion brand - K H M.

Above pic: Salman Khan wears KHM Couture signature SALMAN KHAN jacket

3. Who do your clothes appeal to?

Our western menswear appeals to men who are ambitious and daring, trendy yet versatile, and those who prefer elegantly stylish formal or casual wear. It appeals to men in their late 20's to mid 40's and to corporate CEO's and groom to be's.

Our womenswear appeals to active women on the go, smart & fashionable young women, the boardroom deal makers, evening socialites , as well as all those with an eye for modernity with a mix of class and tradition.. We also offer very exclusive eastern groomswear, and eastern Pakistani dresses with a touch of fusion...

4. If you can choose any celebrity to front your campaign who would it be and why?

If i could choose an International celebrity for menswear it would be SALMAN KHAN - Bollywood Super, for he actively promotes humanity and charity through his BEING HUMAN Foundation around the world.

He has also recently launched his clothing line in Dubai. He was voted worlds 7th best looking man and also famous for his charismatic and down to earth persona.
For womenswear, i would choose Ashwariya Rai, former Miss World. She is glamorous, graceful, bold and intelligent. Those are the types of clients we have and would like to have. .Ms.Rai has done a lot of charity when she was crowned Miss World. Women like her are smart enough to choose what they like, and explain what she's wearing and why.

Some of KHM Couture's Leather Bag range

5. What have been some of your highlights so far?

a) First FEMALE Designer from Pakistan to introduce MENSWEAR (corporate/grooms), and at London Fashion Week.
b) First FEMALE Designer from Pakistan to offer Women’s Business & Corporate wear.
c) The only female from Pakistan; Nominated by the U.S State Department (Education and Cultural Affairs) for a 4 week Business Innovation & Entrepreneurship program in Washington DC this year in Sept-October, for my creative, humanitarian and innovating thinking in whatever business i have done in past and the one i am doing now.
d) The Only Female Designer from Pakistan, to present a PEACE jacket specially designed for Bollywood Super star SALMAN KHAN, which he humbly accepted. The
jacket had special red thread embroidery on the back, which said, believe. behave. become human.
e) The only designer to have launched her own music CD at her store launch. It was house music and sung by me in English. It totally thrilled the Media and Press and our guests. Money from CD sales
supports charities.
f) KHM T-shirts supports rural education in Pakistan. We donate funds to deserving charities.
g) Youngest CEO of any "THE BODY SHOP" U.K Franchise in the world! at (26) in Pakistan.

6) If you were not a designer you would have been a...

If i were not a designer, i would have been a Singer. I am a very talented girl from childhood. I play the keyboard, write and compose poetry and songs and sing as well.
Music has the magic to appeal to a larger audience . It has no boundaries of color cast religion and creed.Music can change the world. MUSIC can promote peace and inspire kindness. Though eventually, i aspire to become a Politician and make a bigger difference through effective policy making.

7) When you're not designing you're...

When I’m not designing, I’m trading gold and stocks, mentoring students, composing songs, reading books or planning ahead,
horse riding, planning fundraising events for social work , or playing the keyboard.

8) Where can people currently purchase your pieces?

Online store: http://www.khmcouture.asia/

KHM Couture (KARACHI-PAKISTAN) by Appointment (+923008277912) (+923008277912)
World Fashion Cafe - Platform (LAHORE- PAKISTAN) ,
Sana Malik By Appointment in DUBAI : +97150 1562323 +97150 1562323 (Arabian Ranches).
Sana Zara by Appointment in LONDON: +44- 7584-240502 +44- 7584-240502 (Central London)

Coming soon to Bahrain, Washington DC, New York, & Toronto Canada.

Don’t Miss KHM Couture’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

Monday 9 August 2010

Luxury design maestro Omar Mansoor to present his timeless collection at London Fashion Week

The ‘A La Mode’ London Fashion Week September 2010 catwalk is delivering yet another healthy injection of high glamour and breathtaking craftsmanship to its avid fashionable followers. Expect the sweet liqueur of luxury spilling from the catwalk edges, as London-based fashion whiz Omar Mansoor showcases his eclectic collection; a mixture of ultimate glamour couture fused with innovative cutting and masterful drapery.



Omar pursued a life in fashion since his tender teenage years; his attraction to design stemming from his love for cloth and its workmanship. However after following a more traditional academic route in business, Omar followed his fashion intuition and culminated his fashion education at the coveted London College of Fashion. Post studying, Omar has featured in several high-profile fashion events, including London Fashion Week, Wimbledon Fashion Week, and Bahrain Fashion Week, working with some of fashion’s elite; alongside working on high profile fashion and beauty competitions to include Top Model UK and Top Model of Color. Featuring in international fashion bibles such as Elle, La’ Officiel and Sabaya, Omar has received wide acclaim for his exclusive Royal Ascot 2010 collection.

Having dressed celebrities such as Sophie Anderton, Leah Charles and Amy Guy, Omar is admired for his style aptitude by world class royalty, socialites and politicians alike. Apart from his fashionable traits, Omar is a particularly charitable individual, having worked with global charities including Edhi Foundation, British heart Foundation, Breast Cancer Campaign, BBC’s Children in Need, IDP’s of Swat and several other national and international charities.



Currently retailing in London and online though various retailing websites and independent boutiques, when asked who the target audience for his lavish designs were, he responded by saying “The women I design for are strong, confident and open to new ideas – someone who feels they need to be challenged.”

Attracting press and fashion industry alike, Omar will be presenting his highly anticipated designs at the lavish Charing Cross Hotel located on the Strand, on Saturday 18th September 2010 as part of the “A La Mode” International London Fashion week show.

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

For general queries email info@lagenevenorth.co.uk

W: www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk




www.omarmansoor.com

Sunday 8 August 2010

An explosion has hit the world of fragrance in the shape of Marc Jacobs’ new scent for men, ‘BANG’

This is the designer’s first fragrance for men, and is expected to make a big impression. So who better to front the ad campaign than the man himself? And with 11 years of collaboration with Jacobs, it came as no surprise that racy fashion photographer Juergen Teller would be the ideal candidate to shoot the campaign. The outcome didn’t fall short of impressive, with a foiled, oiled and naked Jacobs, posing with a strategically placed oversized bottle of perfume.

Reactions were certainly encouraging at the launch party, held on the fifth floor restaurant of Harvey Nichols in London, where A-listers were queuing up to pester and praise the designer, whilst sipping on cocktails equipped with ice cubes amusingly spelling out ‘BANG’.

But the fun and drama doesn’t end there…to accompany the launch of the fragrance Jacobs’ has stepped humorously onto the social networking bandwagon, with a witty Facebook game named ‘BANG! You’re It!’. The game takes Facebook poking to a whole new level, where you can ‘BANG’ your friends for points. The more points you receive, the more chance you have of winning Marc Jacobs goodies and prizes, including a VIP trip to New York with front row seats at an MJ runway show.

The bottle, as chic as the man himself, is silver tone and looks as if it has taken a bullet to its center. Fans can purchase the bottle of a fresh, peppery and woodsy scent in Marc Jacobs stores and Bloomingdales. The fragrance will be available worldwide as of September 2010!

With his stunning campaign, we’re sure the designer’s success will grow in the world of men’s fragrance, and we’re looking forward to seeing what exciting prospects Jacobs has in mind for his brand for the rest of the year…

Saturday 7 August 2010

Cuuurrrrrvvvvvalicious!!!!!!!!!!!!

Words by Rachel Cowey :

Yes that’s right, curves are back in fashion!!!!


Lying on a sun bed on holiday, sweltering in the heat, the last thing I want to look at is woolly jumpers and fur coats. Yet this year, I was actually pleased with the magazines. And why? The statement that curves are back!

Although I am slim myself, I’ve become bored with the fashion and media Industry’s obsession with size zero, especially when only about one percent of us could actually gain such a small figure.

However, autumn/winter 2010 seems to have turned its back on the size zero epidemic. Designers instead are celebrating women!! Proper womanly bodies, with breasts and hips.

There was “All Woman” at Louis Vuitton with boned corsets and grown up circle skirts. “Hourglass” was celebrated at Dolce and Gabbana who showcased corsets and roses into womanly shapes. It is time to be your favourite Jane Austen character with a heaving cleavage and tiny waist.

The must-have pieces are corsets, nipped-in at the waist dresses and pencil skirts. Think Mad Men’s Betty Draper as your role model.


I am interested to see how the high street will incorporate these feminine trends. And whether curves will finally evolve from a gimmicky trend to something considered normal.

Hmmmm well we shall wait and see ;)

KHM Couture set to send ethical waves through the fashion world at London Fashion Week

KHM Couture, an ambitious fashion brand from Pakistan which envisions to “serve humanity through fashion” is clearly a cut above other fashion labels when it comes to ethical business. Associated with reputable charitable organizations in Pakistan such as Pakistan Federation of Business & Professional Women’s’ Organization (for Rural Health), KHM Couture will be spreading the brand message of ‘Believe, Behave, Become. HUMAN’ at the ‘A La Mode’ catwalk show during London Fashion Week.



Citing celebrities such as Bollywood Superstar Salman Khan as one receiver of her kind and fashionable gesture – a custom made casual blazer in crisp white, sporting the brand message, creative director Kanwal Malik isn’t just a master of design but an astute entrepreneur too. London business graduate with an MBA in marketing, Kanwal has extensive business experience working in the financial and banking sector, and has combined this with her fascination of fashion to setup KHM Couture.

Through her designs, Kanwal aims to appeal to men and women who are “ambitious and daring, trendy yet versatile, and those who prefer to be elegantly stylish.” Hailing from culture rich Pakistan, Kanwal indulges in modernity with a mix of class and tradition, and boasts an impressive ‘Groom wear’ collection under her label. Listing global superstar and former Miss World, Aishwarya Rai and Bollywood star Salman Khan as her choice of celebs to front a KHM Couture campaign; the talented Kanwal Malik has secured several accolades for her incredible contribution to fashion and charitable causes: Youngest CEO of any Body Shop U.K franchise in the world award, as well as being nominated by the U.S State Department (Education and Cultural Affairs) for a four week Business Innovation & Entrepreneurship program in Washington DC to applaud her creative, humanitarian and innovative efforts in business.

Amongst her passion to design, Kanwal includes favourite hobbies such as playing the keyboard, writing/composing poetry, singing and horse riding. “If I were not a designer, I would have been a singer. Music has the magic to appeal to a larger audience.”

The ‘A La Mode’ Catwalk will take place at the lavish Charing Cross Hotel located on the Strand on Friday 17th September 2010, the first day of one of fashions’ most anticipated events, London Fashion Week 2010.

Attracting press and fashion industry alike, Kanwal will be presenting her highly anticipated designs at the “A La Mode” show from 7.30pm.



www.khmcouture.asia

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

W: www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk

Friday 6 August 2010

Street Trend of the Day!

We snap up the Gawjous Charlotte Smith :) !

Dress – Matalan
Shoes – EBay
Necklace – 60s Vintage

Spotted by Rachel Cowey

Thursday 5 August 2010

FREEZE 4 FASHION?

As we are still enjoying the abundance of sun that’s hit us this summer, high street retailers are constantly reminding us all that autumn and winter are just around the corner. Weather wise, this is sad however fashion wise, things get interesting. Though as I browsed through Topshop’s ‘Dark Nouveau’ Autumn/Winter 2010 range, it became apparent that winters clothing appears to be summer’s best friend. With this, were a number of tiny hot pants, lace dresses and light chiffon pleated skirts.


The underwear as outerwear trend still remains with merely some thin two toned tights to cover the leg. Undeniably the stylistic image created is hot – unfortunately for us this statement is not literal. The absence of a snood and a chunky knit jumper for the winter weather, admittedly brings fear upon us women, though a true fashionista would freeze for fashion, no? Baring the cold does indeed attract attention, “She’s brave”, “She looks fierce” though the failed attempt simply reads, “She looks cold”.


It is a known fact that fashion and comfort do not often sit in the same boat, though is there a limit? Topshop’s translucent dress (above) clearly shows that there isn’t, though with its careful detailing and sheer finishing, who can complain? And so, we must embrace the cold (now and then). As easy as it is in winter to throw on a stylish jacket over a grubby outfit in the hope that no one will ever know, the waistline must be revealed from time to time. With this theory, the Cape fits nicely – a style no longer meant for the Superhero but the Superwoman. The chequered, leather shoulder form of outerwear from the Dark Nouveau collection caters for us less brave winter wearer’s. The sheepskin inner collar adds an aviator edge which makes up for the loss of the snood and with its a-line opening the outfit underneath is revealed– no more hiding ladies.

So resultantly we appreciate the collection - a superwoman silhouette, a nice mix of textures and hot pants which no longer allow our pins to undergo hibernation. Get as much sun as you can now ladies because freezing for fashion seems to be the new way…

Words by Samantha Bobb-Lucus

Tuesday 3 August 2010

Street Trend of the Day!

We snapped up Roísín Scott in this cute summer outfit!


Top – Dorothy Perkins
Trousers – Ibizia Vintage
Necklace and belt – vintage
Flip-flops – Sri Lanka

Spotted by Rachel Cowey

Wardrobe Intimacy: This week Samantha Bobb-Lucas shares her key pieces with us :)

This week fashionista, Samantha Bob-Lucus, shares with us her key wardrobe pieces as part of our Wardrobe Intimacy’ feature.
Enjoy!

My Key Wardrobe Pieces :- By Samantha Bob-Lucus

With fashion there is no right or wrong, though there are surprises. I’d like to think of myself as a surprise in the sense that I don’t have a particular style or a coordinating wardrobe. The main idea is, “wear what you think looks good and see what happens” – for me this is the best theory to go by, less opinion to an outfit means greater confidence… right? However, finding 7 key items in my wardrobe, screamed out for opinion, unable to part with the clothes that just didn’t quite make the cut. After much indecisiveness, I managed to narrow it down to the things I just couldn’t live without in my wardrobe, the finer things in life….

I start with my essential accessory which is my thin tan waist belt. With no exaggeration, this belt is my ‘everything’ and as far as my wardrobe is concerned, it goes with everything. In my opinion, the waist belt is the best fashion creation ever to be made - no matter the size of a person it gives the illusion of a smaller waist and a cute hourglass figure. The dress that I wore the belt with in the picture is currently my favourite piece in my wardrobe. I chose the fabric myself and my sister made the dress as she makes and designs African style garments – this is a bonus for me as you can imagine. Something about the candy pink and contrasting blue drew me to it, and that is what I love about tribal print, the vibrant colours just shout out “I’m here!” without even saying it.

Being originally from Sierra Leone I was in on the tribal trend since a young age which is why I’m so happy that the fashion world has finally embraced it. And as for the style of the dress, my theory is that you can never go wrong with a maxi. At 5 ft 2, I like maxi dresses as it elongates the body without having to wear heels although, this specific dress does require them. I do unfortunately have a slight feeling that the maxi trend is slowly going to fade, as everyone is wearing them these days. It’s only a matter of time before people get tired, though for now I am quite content. I love the trail detail on this back of the dress in addition. When a dress has more to admire on the back, you know that it’s special.


Above pic: Maxi Dress – made by my sister, Waist belt from Primark

With a huge colour contrast I move on to my ‘blacked out’ outfit. All black is indeed regarded as a safe option but like the maxi, it’s hard to go wrong with it. My biker jacket is a key item in my wardrobe mainly because it can give any outfit an edge no matter how plain. I wouldn’t normally regard it as my obvious choice of outerwear, but I feel it brings out the ‘Alexa Chung’ in me, and can be rocked with a pretty dress or some simple jeans. When you have a jacket that can work with numerous outfits it is recognised as a ‘good buy’ and this one is indeed, ‘good’’. In the image I wore the jacket with my strapless playsuit. The trouble that I have with playsuits is that I absolutely love them but they just don’t seem to love me. Something about the fitting doesn’t seem to look right on me. The playsuit that I’m wearing in the image however was love at first sight and yes, it is a simple one but sometimes simple works (with the right accessories). I knew that Topshop would pull through for me - as they always do.


Above pic: Biker Jacket from Warehouse, Playsuit from Topshop, Court Shoes from Primark

On the cheaper side of things, are my suede beige shoes from Primark or Primarni as I prefer to call it. I’m a huge fan of the court shoe as it elongates my legs and has an elegant look about them. I was on the hunt for a pair for so long and before almost settling for a one priced at £60 on ASOS, I came across the same pair for £12 in Primark. My joy was indescribable as you can imagine. Since I bought the heels last month I’ve worn them at least twelve times. They are slowly becoming that ‘24/7 pair’ which may not be good in the long run, though once I find a black pair, all will be restored. My hunt for a decent baseball jacket was also long, though I finally managed to find it in Urban Outfitters. I had a desire for the true leather style one, though the concept of summer approaching defeated this idea as it would have been too hot. I had hoped for the true ‘baseball jacket’ look with the puffy oversized style though the concept of possibly looking like my dad in the 80’s came into thought. So finally, the one that I found proved to be a perfect purchase having a feminine style, due to its slight fitting though it also has the laid back look that I was hoping for. It’s light fabric and cool tones are also ideal for the summer period.

And finally are my tiny denim shorts. These shorts somehow have found their way into every single outfit that I’ve worn this summer and I’m sure they will do the same for winter. Recently I have embraced my legs like never before yet, there is always the worry of showing too much. I realised that by buying the shorts one size bigger, they don’t cling to the thigh and for once comfort is introduced (this doesn’t occur often where my clothes are concerned). And that in a nutshell is my 7 key wardrobe items. Ones that I can’t live without, ones that express me, ones that I may need to fight for if somebody attempted to steal…

Above pic:Baseball Jacket from Urban Outfitters, Shorts from H&M

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