NEW IN:texture treats.

Velvet, wool, sequins and sparkles; I want to wear them all, ALL THE TIME

I have been more than a little bit norty in these past couple of weeks i.e. spending money I should be saving, on things I couldn't physically resist.

First up, I've done it; found the perfect LBD come LVD, killing two birds with one stone. I deserve a pat on the back. Clutching desperately onto the fact that technically, my student life ain't over yet (gap yah, y'know), I got this for a steal in their 20% off, student, weekend event, a while ago now; I ain't prepared to let that little luxury slip through my grasp, anytime soon. But look, its nice a pretty and velevet-y and sparkle-y. The perfect party dress, just need me some invites.

Velvet, glitter spot, skater dress: Topshop

Forever 21 are my latest proud pleasure. It is ridiculous cheap with stellar offerings. My first impression initiated thoughts of a budget UO store without the pretentious kooky bric-a-brac. Do we agree? It has taken Newcastle too long to introduce one of those to its streets, how long do we reckon it is before it gets its own F21? Another reason to move to London.

Sequin skirt: F21

Finally, h&m how I love thee. Top form they are. Countless times I have walked in and grabbed a staple that I had been longing for, to no avail. They have come up trumps too many times this season, I am somewhat anticipating the downfall. This is a cheaper and toastier version of that TOPSHOP knit that I had my literal heart set on. I bought this from h&m on Camden High St. so obvz I love it even more.

Fluffy knit: h&m

That's my lot for a while.

Another day trip to London beckons, I can't keep away.

Bloglovin' / Facebook / Newcastle Represent / tumblr / Twitter

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thee perfect knit.

Knitwear is one of my favourite things about AW, mmm layers. What constitutes the perfect wooly piece?
No frills, thick, over-sized but snug in autumnal hues (think charcoal greys and bottle-greens) cardigans and jumpers are doing it for me, right now.

These lot come pretty close to defining the perfect knit:

APC, TOPSHOP, Theory, Stella, T, TOPSHOP x2 and TOPMAN

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profile me: bethan juliff.

After the privilege of her company at the British Fashion Awards, I thought it was only fair to formally introduce her to you and showcase her awe inspiring talent. A definite one to watch; I give you Bethan Juliff - up and coming knitwear designer.

A bit about Bethan and the brand. The Bethan Juliff brand was borne out by young, London fashion designer of the same name. Bethan anchored the brand on the completion of a BA in Fashion Knitwear Design at Nottingham Trent University in 2009.

Bethan prides herself on creating exclusive, handcrafted knitwear pieces implementing unique, bespoke, knitting techniques that set her apart from other knitwear designers. Pieces are made from the best cotton, cashmere, mohair and lambs wool Bethan can get her hands on.

Bethan is currently weaving her way into the cut-throat world of the fashion industry, waiting on those all important words every designer so longs to hear; ‘we want YOU‘. With three enviable collections already to her name and the recent launch of the latest, it is looking increasingly promising that this could be her season to shine.

Bethan celebrated the launch of her Autumn / Winter 2011 collection on 25th February, earlier this year. Hosted in the exclusive confines of Kensington Roof Gardens, it was a lavish affair from the bubbling champagne to the stylish turn-out. The event was received with great praise from the general public and the London fashion scene alike. Ten models flaunted new collection pieces during the evening, accessorized with the beautiful, Bethan Juliff Knitwear, signature, Poppy broach. 

 

Photos: Tomo Creative

Bethan says of the latest collection; "I design and create a luxury knitwear product, which is unique yet wearable. The collection provides a look for every possible occasion including a wedding gown for the new season. I find that knitwear is very misunderstood and there are possibilities for beautiful elegance and not just cable knit jumpers and socks!"

The collection compliments innovative new designs with classic pieces. The range is carefully crafted, every piece elegantly bold in its own right. The collection compiles thirteen graceful styles, including two debuts in the form of a choice of evening gowns. And Bethan’s efforts have even championed a wedding dress first for the brand. The gowns combine full fishtail skirts with backless tops and the wedding dress’s elegant buttoned detailing creates the meticulously designed, dramatic finish, providing the centre piece to the collection.

 'Bluebell'

Another first for the collection are two party dresses named 'Ivy' and 'Forget Me Not', full billowing skirts play in harmony with flattering structures. These are both available in black, grey and cream. 

'Forget Me Not'

The range also features a much loved classic which has been given a subtle revamp; Bethan’s trademark 'Coatagan'.  The Autumn Winter 2011 'Tulip' is a revamped version of this popular style.

To see the new collection in all its handcrafted glory visit www.bethanjuliff.com.

Bethan is more than happy to answer any queries you may have regarding any collection pieces, please email your questions to info@bethanjuliff.com.

You can also find her on 

Twitter / Facebook

Helen,

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living for the weekend.

I finally can, hurrah. Handed my notice in at work, never to return. I've never been happier, I feel free as a bird. Had one of the best weekends I've had in a while but now I must get my head in the books.

In other news, I am nervously awaiting that all important call from ELLE. 'Hiya Helen, we want YOU'. I wish. According to their sources they are currently making a decision. Eeeek. I sound like a broken record (I am aware) but I do really appreciate it as I've never wanted anything more. I promise to sort out a giveaway soon as a proper thank you.

Leather Jacket: TOPSHOP, Jumper: New Look, Denim Shirt: Vintage, Shorts, TOPSHOP, Booties: Dorothy Perkins, Necklaces: TOPSHOP and Primark

My task this week is to get well on top of uni work so I can properly start writing again and so you can see less of this mundane ramble.

Any ideas or suggestions as to what you'd like to see here, leave in the comments. Cheers.

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p.s. my blackberry was stolen on Saturday night which means I am so out the loop with regards to responding to email / tweets / comments / messages / friends requests etc etc. so apologies are due.

new things.

Back to the 9-5 grind of uni. Okkk so it's more like I have to deal with a maximum eight hours a week. It's a grind nontheless.

Home was nice. Newcastle shops are sooo good. It doesn't take much to beat York though, wheyy.

Here are four items I bought whilst on my brief encounter with Geordie turf again. Sorrrry for the same shirt again. It's just coincidence and not that I'm a scruff. Promise. I have wanted a pair of these wedged desert boots ever since I can remember, I have um'd and ar'd for over a year but at a snip of 20£ in the Dorothy Perkin's sale, I couldn't resist. It was meant to be, clearly.

That shirt: Camden, Jumper: New Look, Skinny Trousers: TOPSHOP, Necklace: Primarni, Boots:Dorothy Perkins

I'm thinking about London Fashion Weekend, is anyone going?

The muchly anticipated deadline is looming. Judgement day or what. I have everything crossed. One last thank you to those who have voted. I can't extend my gratitude enough. One final plea. Thank you thank you thank you.

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dead to the world.

I had planned to do this on Friday but my camera was outta juice. It was my Little Kirst's twenty first on Thursday night so we standardly put on quite a show. I managed to man up the morning after and throw this together. I am so bored of my wardrobe. I am compiling a wish list as we speak. Someone gimme some dollar dollar cash?

 

Cardi: Mummy's, Jeans and Pearls: TOPSHOP, Shirt and Bag: Vinatge, Loafers: M&S, Lace Socks: New Look

I have finally had my hair cut, so I am no longer sporting the wannabe ballerina 'do. Although I will miss it.

Thank you again for voting for me in the ELLE intern competition. I am still fifth which in itself I think is a decent achievement. Not to big myself up or anything. One week today and I promise you will hear no word of it. I just really want it and need your support. CHYAZ.

VOTE HERE 

I take back what I said yesterday about the high-street and the flatform. Today on my lunch break, I accidentally ended up in TOPSHOP's shoe lounge (absolute devil, its literally the shop next to my work). Moral of the story; they've jumped on the badwagon. Here they are. I like them. I want them.

Maybe just maybe the flatform trend will actually oust the wedge / platform this year.

TRENDSETTER.

As if another year end is upon us. Here are my favourite top five trends of 2010.

After much deliberation I eventually whittled it down to a measly five. There were mini-trends a plenty I would have liked to sneak in but I believe these five were the ONE.

5. Fashion Faux pas (pl.)

Socks and shoes? Double denim? SUSPENDERS!? Nothing could scream fashion police alert more than these three. That refused to be the case this year and in fact huge fashionable respect was gained with the sporting of one of these unconventional trends.

Whoever would think that the biggest going-out outfit dilemma would be which socks with which shoes? I don't know when, where or which genius decided that this cringey dad faux pas was suddenly cool but I think we all owe you a huge thank you.

Thanks to Henry Holland and Pretty Polly it was acceptable to rock suspenders out of the confinements of the boudoir. Provided the sell-out suspender tights weren't paired with anything remotely, stereotypically 'slag', they added a subtley sexy touch. I was definitely a fan. The whole of the high-street jumped on the bandwagon offering us their take on the trend. I bought mine from non other than Marks & Sparks.

Double denim sneaked its way into our lives, slowly but surely to earn a rightful place in my 2010 trend hall of fame. Please please please if you do try this at home, remember not to co-ordinate the colours. The term is double denim; two pieces of denim worn at any one time that is; not all over or matching denim.

4. The Nudist

Not literally. I mean in terms of colour palette, obvz. This is a trend which I cannot remember my wardrobe without. Sure to be crowned the new black of 2010, girly pinks were well and truly ousted with its arrival. Nude shades were everywhere this year, having dominated the spring/summer 2010 catwalks, from off-white through pale rose to gold. Delicious candy-floss shades in sheer and floaty fabrics gave glamour to girlish looks. Accessories were also big on this trend and it was even extended to the beauty counters with nude lips reigning supreme thanks to the Golden Globe awards.

3. Material Girls and Boys

Winter signified an epic switch to more substantial garments; those brave enough to weather the winter chills, thick enough to block the blustery winds. This winter we were kept snug with knits, leather, sheepskin and suede.

Nostalgic, fairisle knits made a comeback. Slouchy, waffle, or cable - chunky knits were well and truly embraced.

The leather jacket recieved a feminine update to become what would be known as the (SOLD OUT TOPSHOP) shearling aviator. But leather this year wasn't only in jacket form...

Leather and suede were no longer confined to the shoe lounge, extending their portfolios to the clothing rails of our high street. Shorts, skirts and jackets contributed to the main of the collections. Yet, the suede shoe trend fittingly remained. Ladies and gentlemen took their pick from so many variations of the cute dessert bootie.

2. SHE Wears the Trousers

The fashion industry jumped aboard, all hands on deck campaigning for girl power and urged us to man-up with a good old bit of power dressing this year.

Spring came laiden with variation of the unconventional, drop-crotch 'nappy' pant. I am, of course, talking about the harem trouser. The marmite of the leg department. I, personally, am not a fan but there were options a plenty to choose from: peg-leg, tapered, high waisted, statement prints, you get the idea. Pretty dresses and flouncy skirts were no longer the garment of choice for eveningwear, the statement piece was the jumpsuit. An outlet of the trouser trend completely misunderstood by the opposite sex.

Autumn got all grown up on us and saw a return of the previosuly favoured skinny styles in anything from equestrian lycra to country corduroy, ooh ar.


1. Hollar for a Collar

Admittedly a bias choice for the top spot but can you blame me? Yes, if you look at my hundred most recent facebook tagged snaps there is a running theme, slight obsession? Maybe. Bothered? Not at all. Kindly welcomed into my wardrobe by my only girl crush, dearest Alexa Chung, the collar emerged as the mighty mini-trend of 2010. Dresses, tees, shirts and blouses all got the collar treatment. Some stores stepped it up a level and even stocked separate collars you could attach to non-collared garments. Genius. A trend I hope will transcend through the seasonal trends of the next year; it remains to be a trend pulled-off equally by both men and women. Peter Pan or pointed; this one will show no signs of fading fast if I have anything to do with it.

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material girl.

Hiya new feature - may I introduce to you my first guest blogger post. Written by my beautiful favourite Chineeese gal, Liz.

As winter tightens her icy grasp over England, we are faced with the horrid realisation that bare legs have overstayed their welcome. Tanned skin is very much faded and it is now time to reluctantly admit that our trusty ray-bans should retreat somewhat sheepishly into their cases; nostalgically dreaming of sunnier climes.
However, despite the adverse weather, winter for the fashionista is a far cry from the doom and gloom cloaking England. Winter, signifies an epic switch to more substantial garments; those brave enough to weather the winter chills, thick enough to block the blustery winds and chic enough to stop any man in his tracks. This winter look to four essentials, all tactile, all textural and all promising to leave you hot to trot. It is with great pleasure that I present knits, leather, sheepskin and suede.

The time has come to dig out those nostalgic knits lurking deep in the cave of your grandmother’s wardrobe, to brush away those mothballs and to seize this season’s knitwear which is bigger and bolder than ever before. Whether its slouchy, waffle, or cable – knitwear caters to any look. Try classically chic: a slim knit, cinching skinny waist belt and floor length skirt. Quintessentially quirky: vintage levi cut-offs, cropped tee and grandpa cardi or melancholic grunge: leather skirt, sheer blouse and freyed cardigan. It is time to embrace those warm folds full of love and memory, for knit is a trend which is effortlessly easy.

To accompany these winter warmers is the leather jacket. You’re immediately thinking biker right? This season while the biker remains, the fruitful fashion world kindly offers a more feminine, slash less rocky alternative. If there’s one coat you buy this winter let it be a shearling aviator. Warm, snug and super cool this jacket is soaring along both catwalk and high street.  Look to chocolate brown leathers with shearling collars. Mix these with cream knits, thick tights and denim shorts or alternatively a tucked in knit, high-waisted skinny trousers and some cheeky lace-up booties. Whistles’ Anika flying jacket is a lust-have at £325, however TOPSHOP also have a great range which is still easy on the eye but also kinder to ones pocket.

Alternatively, for a more authentic and individual look, some vintage chains like Beyond Retro and Rokit offer a range of real aviation jackets. But be warned, finding the correct size can be tricky and laborious, but this makes success all the more sweet.

Furthermore, leather this season isn’t only in jacket form. Urban Outfitters have a sleek leather skirt in their range as do TOPSHOP.  Also, as grown up trousers remain hot this season (high-waisted and tailored), leather brings another texture to the table. Sophisticated, grown up yet playfully sexy.

Alongside the rails of many a high street store of these edgier leather pieces sit its counterpart; suede. Leather and suede are textures standardly confined to the shoe lounge. However, this winter that is no longer the consensus. Suede has extended its portfolio to the clothing rails of our high street. Shorts, skirts and jackets contribute to the main of the collection. Yet, the suede shoe trend fittingly remains. Ladies, take your pick from dessert boots to subtlely detailed platforms. For the boy; a trusted brand with a stylish update, I give you the suede Vans plimpsoll.

Options a plenty.

Without further ado I bid you a snug winter.

Follow these trends and you’ll have no choice but to be, excuse the pun, hot property.

 1.Whistles, 2.Vans, 3.NEAL, 4.Won Hundred, 5.ASOS White, 6&7.TOPSHOP, 8.River Island, 9. Rag&Bone

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