Fashion Translated

HOW TO TIE A SCARF IN A ‘FRENCH TWIST’

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:28:36 +1000

Ask any woman of style and she will tell you that she has a selection of scarves in her wardrobe. Most probably you do too. The big question is do you actually wear your scarves as often as you could? My I bet that the answer is ‘no’. In my practice I find that most women who come to see me shy away from scarves as those women are stuck in the 80’s thinking: It is complicated to tie a scarf. Let me assure you it’s not ... if you know how to do it. I want to open up a series of visual tutorials that will take you through various magic tricks you can do with a scarf. This week you’ll learn how to add a ‘french twist’ to your outfit.

Enjoy the step-by-step learning:

Step 1: Take the scarf and fold it lengthwise until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 2. Wrap the scarf around your neck, making sure to place the middle of the scarf at the back of your neck, so that you can hold both ends with your hands. Oh, and make sure to make the ends even.

Step 3: Taking both ends, make a simple knot at the front [over and under, you know the drill], and once you're done with that, bring the knot up to your neck.

Step 4: Bring the knot to the side of your neck, and tighten it a bit.

Step 5: Finish by tying a double knot and let ends hang loosely.

Hey, do you have a scarf wearing tip you could share with us?

PARIS HAUTE COUTURE FASHION WEEK: (Autumn/Winter 2009)

Wed, 9 Jul 2008 22:06:12 +1000

Last week the fashion capital of the world was taken over by glam and excitement of ‘Haute Couture Paris Fashion Week’, the major event of its kind. Brands-clad celebrities, all mighty fashion editors and high flying fashion trendsetters were treated to first hand preview of what we’ll be wearing in the coming seasons.

Crowds of tourists and eager Parisians were recklessly left to storm the pavements of Le Grand Palais, Musee Rodin and other ‘IT’ venues in hope to catch a glimpse of their favourite designers and sought-after collections. In most instances to no available. But not for you my friend ...

Read on for the freshest fashion week updates so you:
Know what’s happening ... thus you are current!
Have something to say while dining with fashion conscious girlfriends ... you are a conversensation!
Dress with grace and style ... it’s easy to make your look your hook!

CHRISTIAN DIOR

What’s happening:
Christian Dior as always has grabbed the audiences with breath taking theatricality of a perfectly orchestrated performance.
The long standing designer of the house John Galliano set the podium on fire with angelic creations of voluminous fabric, leopard print silks and ballerina style skirts in soft pastel colours.

Undeniably the art form worth speechless admiration.

Topic to ponder with girlfriends:
As with so many creative geniuses, the Maestro may have forgotten that most of us have real lives that come with real bodies. Let’s leave tiny corsets and ballooning skirts to the likes of Kate Moss.

How to make this look your hook:
That’s got to be little things. Galliano so beautifully revived the intrigue of black and white old movies. Vintage glamour is here to stay.

Next time you are getting ready for after work drinks, be more creative and do your eye make-up in a more defined and more expressive way.

Or if you are a daring fashionista at heart try to wear a neat hat closely fitted to your neatly styled hair-do. Where do you get one? There is no better place than a vintage store.

Contact Elena for the details of a store near you.

CHRISTIAN LACROIX
What’s happening:

Well known king of fantasy and a brilliant craftsman of details has taken his admirers on a journey to the magic land of dolls.
First there was an ancient orient doll in a lavish caftan embellished with golden threads; then the goddess from the Middle Ages in fine copper knit and wild feathers; followed by Russian inspired beauty in a traditional sumptuous costume.
For desert came the Spanish dancers in black and red numbers as well as French courtesans in opulent laces coming from underneath well fitting corsets.

Topic to ponder with girlfriends:
Oversized sumptuous satin sleeves were the main feature of the designer’s collection. While certainly a feast to one’s eyes, satin can visually add 2 to 3 kilos to anyone’s frame.
And if the thought of the word ‘oversized’ already makes you feel bigger, you know this trend is not for you.

How to to make this look your hook: While black was the key colour of the showing, you and I know better that there is life after black.
Take inspiration from those rare ensembles when the designer spiced up his deep creations with some splashes of the following:
Vivid Blue. Think about adding a pair bright gloves to your everyday overcoat;
Crimson Red. Be creative and think roses, a scarf with some rose ornaments will instantly add some designer depth to your look without being over the top;
Yummy Pistachio. Put a colourful ribbon around your waist over your favorite black dress. Or if waist is not your best asset tie a little funky scarf in the shade to the handle of your everyday bag.

‘THE WOMAN IN THE LOBBY’: A minute with Lee Tulloch (Author-Fashion, Style, Beauty)

Mon, 2 Jun 2008 20:11:41 +1000

Lee Tulloch’s latest novel ‘The Woman in the Lobby’ is a hot sensation. Launched just days before the annual Sydney Writer Festival, it has quickly become the most talked about subject among women of style and substance.

Firstly, the author .... respected authority and well known writer for the world of fashion. Harpers Bazaar, Vogue, Elle & New York magazines - just to name a few. Then, the story ... cutting edge, modern, intriguing. Fashion & passion, womanship and courage. All intertwined in a sexy pot.

Lucky us, we caught up with Lee for a quick chat. Lucky you, you get to be the first to know. Lee, what do you find inspiring? Hotels. I loves observing inside the hotel lobbies. It is such a perfect destination to explore and create. It’s a paradise for imagination.

Could you tell us how the ‘Woman in the Lobby’ was conceived? The ‘Woman in the Lobby’ source of inspiration comes from an actual event occurred to me while covering a fashion show in Paris. In a restaurant, a woman asked me whether I will be interested to travel to Capri with a gentleman of a certain age with white hair and an eye patch sited at a near-by table. “I obviously said no to the proposal”, laughs Lee “However, this brief moment became years later the base of ‘The Woman in the Lobby’ as I often wondered, what if…”

Could you give us a hint to the plot? A woman of opportunities, Violet Armengard decides to live the high life by collecting a series of encounters with very rich people. After all, her plan is well set to succeed in a sort of activities where life luxuries can come without the need of having money. However, pursue of wealth will soon take her into dangerous territories where human heart is just another commodity to be consumed. It is depiction of the universe where power and sex go hand in hand. Following an undefined path the journey takes take Violet into a hurting and deceptive life experience. Nevertheless it is far from a grim novel! Think different parts of the world, luxurious places and .... unnamed hotel lobbies.

Wow! No wonder Sydney fashionistas are buzzing. I do not know about you but we are off to a book store!!!

TIPS FROM THE STARS: Peter Alexander (Founder-Peter Alexander Sleepwear)

Sun, 25 May 2008 17:09:50 +1000

Peter is the quintessential, down to earth and talented Aussie designer whose colourful language goes hand in hand with his colorful pajamas and nighties. The king of PJ started his career twenty years ago seeing an untouched exciting niche market in sleepwear for both women and men. Creating fun and comfy pieces, Peter has achieved world wide recognition selling his brand not only throughout Australia but also in New Zealand and recently in the United States and England to follow.
What can we learn from Peter about the secret of his success? Excellent and funky branding backed with quality products are the forte of Peter Alexander. His inspiration comes from exotic Africa where many of his catalogues pictures are shot. Passionate about what he does and an astute business person, Peter Alexander is the perfect example on how a gap in the market twenty years ago can actually place you in the spotlight of the fashion world. The beauty with his products is the extent of occasions we could wear them whether it’s serves as a sleepwear or a cute little dress. Check out Peter’s empire and find some amazing ideas at www.peteralexander.com.au/

TIPS FROM THE STARS: Arthur Galan (Founder AG Clothing)

Sun, 25 May 2008 17:09:47 +1000

In ten years, Arthur Galan (AG) has become synonymous with timeless and chic clothing beginning with men fashion and soon servicing the stylish women too. Fine tailoring with attention to detail have secured a well deserved place for Galan in the fashion industry of the New Millennium. Timeless signature pieces in quality fabrics sourced from Europe are essentials criteria for his success.
What can we learn from Anna Maria about the latest in bag fashion? For AG Autumn/Winter 08 is all about volume and drape. Favourite outfit for the season? Chunky charcoal knit over a bright blue dress. It is such a sleek and sophisticated look for that confident practical woman. Soft drape dresses are also in creating a fresher and younger look. Galan gives high importance to selecting fabrics for his designs in both male and female clothing. His talent has remained intact year after year in how he can best utilize these fabrics turning them into beautiful garments. Brand to note www.agclothing.com/

FASHION WEEKEND SYDNEY: What’s in it for you? Take a note of THE HANDBAG HOOKER

Wed, 14 May 2008 21:06:51 +1000

The first Fashion weekend Sydney presented by Shop Till You Drop magazine took place last weekend at the Royal Hall of Industries in Moore Park. This exciting three days event, first of its kind is actually modeled from the popular London Fashion weekend concept. It is a wonderful opportunity for all fashion lovers to indulge on over 70 of Australia’s top fashion designers whose collections are displayed and are on sale at discounted prices. Unlike the Rosemount Fashion week being an industry-only event, the fashion week-end is open to everyone enthusiastic enough to spend few hours among designers of all kinds and make great purchases of course.

At the opening night on Friday 9 May, visitors were able to witness actual catwalks. This feature created a real buzz as various famous designers like Alex Perry, Leona Edminston, Melanie Cutfield, Fleur Wood and many other big names showcased their latest looks.

Clothing and accessories were not alone. From well respected Dermalogica skin care products to VS Sassoon Styling latest ground-breaking straightener, the choice of getting pampered was absolutely enormous. Model Co. Beauty Makeovers provided one to one consultation while express manicure was on offer complimentary by The Nail Bar to ensure us perfect nails in all latest colours.

What we loved about the fashion weekend was the availability of a variety of products and services under one big roof. We also made couple nice discoveries one of them being the handbag hooker. What a perfect and original gift that is well priced and so useful. We all dislike leaving our handbags on the floor or on a chair for obvious hygienic reasons. Handbag hooker will not only solve this problem but also introduce a new form of funky accessory. Affixed to any restaurant or café table, the stylish hook protects bags from dirty floor. It is no surprise it won “Best Gift Product” in 2007. TO FIND OUT MORE:
http://handbaghooker.com/

Thumbs up for this ultimate fashion gathering and we all hope it will be back next year with an even bigger success.

ROSEMOUNT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK: The who’s who of the Australian Fashion in its thirteenth year

Fri, 9 May 2008 14:25:04 +1000

The action: The Rosemount Sydney Fashion week is the biggest event of its kind. Once again it took place at the Overseas Passenger Terminal - Circular Quay last week. For five days, all eyes were turned into this very chic destination where about 100 designers showcased their up coming spring summer 2008/2009 designs to various local and international media, buyers, bloggers and of course celebrities.

The celebrities: Big names make big sensations and from day one the it girl Mischa Barton along with the new face of David Jones, Miranda Kerr and the very glamorous Miranda Otto were all present making the great joy of Australian medias.

The runaway: It is not an easy task to cover all 100 plus shows in a mere five days. This equates to more than 3000 looks. Imagine how daunting it could be to analyse thoroughly such an event. But not for us, the fashion lovers! We are here to share some noted trends and observations with you.

The new trends: If the current autumn/ winter season is all about bold colors, spring/summer is definitely more subtle and neutral. White, cream and beige are all well represented as well as silver which continues to make its way as a serious must have color.

For all of us bit disappointed by this change, be assured! Purple is in with all its eye catchy shades. Green and yellow seems to be big too.

Higher waists shorts will be the hot new look for the season. We saw many versions of it whether for a dressy look or for casual outing. Funky with a row of buttons or belted, designers opted this look as a necessity to adopt seriously in the warmer weather.

Of course, high waists wide legs pants remains as popular and provide an alternative choice for those who may be reluctant with shorts. Also for those who love wearing trousers, they are well served especially with the trouser suit.

Remember the 80’s super short skirts? Well, if you have legs to die for, then you will have great fun next season. The super short skirts are back. And they are not alone. The super short dress makes also part of the list. Floral, yes! Prints, yes! Sexy, of course!

Luckily, the super short dress is not the only trendy shape. Many designers opted for maxi long flowing and asymmetrical dresses that will look so classy in those long summer evenings.

Elegance is translated with sheer fabrics. This transparent effect revealing other layer of clothing such as lingerie will definitely make our guys very happy.

I have to confess, the target market for a good number of designers were girls in their twenties. No criticism but would have loved to see more designs targeting other age group as well. Saying this, I loved what I saw with Dorian Ho collection; dazzling feminine and alluring with floor length gowns that could be worn by women of different age.

The designers, established & emerging: Fashion week is not dedicated for A list designers only. Naturally their new collections are awaited with high anticipation and an Alex Perry or Akira shows are well highlighted in the media both here and overseas. However, the real excitement with fashion shows is the discoveries.

Anupama Dayal has been a regular designer of the show for the last four years. I was positively surprised by her collection. Vivid colour coordination is her forte. Her style is simplistic yet fresh and original. Her summer dresses make strong statements of comfort and are unique pieces of fashion.

Daniel Avakian is a new comer. A former tow truck driver, Avakian is considered by many a future fashion celebrity. It’s no surprise as Avakian’s imagination could take him to the top. Metallic is widely used in his eclectic designs. He can sometime go overboard with futuristic inspiration but doesn’t this mean he is not afraid of exploring new ideas in design? Being brave in creativity is quintessential for many world renowned designers.

Konstantina Mittas, another newcomer reminded us of how fashion can be translated into a strong visual language of self expression. I loved many of her clothing showcased at the show. Not for your everyday wardrobe perhaps, but for those unique occasions where self expression through what you wear counts. Eighties trends transported into a futuristic flair creating big puffed sleeves jacket in dramatic black or a satin blue long sleeves dress with high neck and ultra short are all fantastic.

The long awaited show was from Sass and Bide designers Sarah-Jane Clark and Heidi Middleton dedicated to the memory of their friend, Kate Boyson who died from an aggressive form of cancer late last year. Despite this sad note, the collection was light toned and a sheer pleasure. Frisky and girly with ribbon and other fun decorations, the pair excelled in short frocks. The highlight remained the so glamour flowing long coats with gold detailing.

Brother and sister, Marc and Camilla are also a pair to praise for their vision of modern Australian fashion. I love their sense of classic style yet with a touch of their personal creativity. The absence of colour may be seen as negative but the elegance of their designs and sometime its cutting edge make the black dress or the white trench great fashion items to cherish for long time.

Now for some real big names, Lisa Ho comes on top of the list. She doesn’t need new sensational looks. Her place in Australian fashion is well established since many decades and her followers are plenty. Absolutely elegant and timeless, Lisa’s collection is a confirmation of continuous great Australia fashion. Keep an eye on Kate Ritchie dress at this year Logies. What a beauty.

And of course, how to forget Alex Perry, the king of Australian Haute Couture? His SAFARI PRINCESS collection is a celebration of elegant organza dresses in white. Tailored and crisped looks were in. And for some originality, his corseted mini dresses in zebra prints have kept some attendees perplexed. On the other hand, Easton Pearson, another veteran brand of Australian Fashion had the most media attention with their extravagance, out of scale forms and over the top colors. Clothing that may be worn at very extravagant events…

The creator: Simon Lock (pictured), the founder of Australian Fashion week is worth of all our sincere gratitude for having the vision of making our city of Sydney a fashion destination.

TIPS FROM THE STARS: Kerryn Langer (Bracewell-Head Designer)

Fri, 9 May 2008 13:31:45 +1000

Bracwell was one of the first designers who opened a little store in Paddington and very quickly turned it into one of Australia's leading fashion houses. Today the brand is a great Australian story that truly has made a difference for the local fashionistas. It was Bracewell who first introduced international labels to the local market specialising on great quality basics that can make a foundation of a smart wardrobe.
What can we learn from Kerryn about the fashion tastes of a modern Australian woman? A modern Australian lady likes designs that are classic, clean and comfortable. She is adventurous and she is not afraid to stand up for herself. Black, greys and all your neutrals are her colours of choice. She also likes some splashes of brighter accents for a bit of a wow.

TIPS FROM THE STARS: Ana Maria Escobar (Oroton-Creative Director)

Fri, 9 May 2008 12:00:10 +1000

Oroton is a luxury leather goods brand that has been an icon in Australian fashion industry for the last seventy years. Originally from Columbia, Anna Maria Escobar has brought her incredible multi-cultural experience to the brand. This year for the special birthday collection, Anna Maria’s inspiration has come from vintage. We’ll see the emergence of new shapes, amazing concepts and unique designs.
What can we learn from Anna Maria about the latest in bag fashion? The latest trend is really two-fold. First, there is a whole concept of having a large bag. Larger than life, something where you can put all your possessions and still have space for more. Then there is a mini clutch that is so useful for those special occasions. In fact a little clutch has been a signature for Oroton for many years. In terms of the colour, it’s purple. You’ve got to have purple in your bag collection this year. Check out the colour called mink from latest Oroton collection (in stores now) and you won’t look anywhere else.

TIPS FROM THE STARS: Grant Pearce (Australian Publisher Vogue & GQ Magazines)

Thu, 8 May 2008 11:23:02 +1000

Grant Pearce is one of the undisputed leaders of the Australian fashion and publishing industries. He is a fashion division publisher for Vogue Australia, and GQ Australia magazines. Grant's career highlights span involvement in the planning and production of major events as well as the development of publishing brands.
What can we learn from Grant about accessories? In this day when clothes (like everything else) is getting more and more expensive, accessories should become such an important part of anyone’s wardrobe. Not only accessories can change the look of an outfit very effectively, they really do finish a garment in the most elaborate way.