So...as you can see, it has been an insanely long time since i have posted. This is due to life becoming completely manic whilst studying for a degree in fashion design! The good news is... i have now completed my degree, phew!! The bonkers part is, i am going back for more in September, to study for a Masters! I know i must be crazy, right! So over the summer period i have decided to put some of my efforts back into developing the blog i started.
I am aiming to post a minimum of 2 post a week, covering all things fashion/lifestyle related. I have a strong interest in discussing personal growth, as this is something i feel that i am working on all the time within my own life. I don't profess to be an expert or that this blog will be created perfectly, as i am still developing and growing. But i will try to cover interesting and thought provoking topics.
Anyway, whether you have stopped by to have a look or just stubble across my blog, then thank you for your time and feel free to pop back anytime :)
Thursday, 30 June 2016
Thursday, 19 June 2014
Future of Fashion at The Cambridge Junction.
On Tuesday the 17th of June, the doors opened at the Cambridge Junction, to showcase, Cambridge School of Art’s, Graduation Fashion Show 2014. Fresh, aspiring, fashion designers had their chance to unveil their final collections, showing the public, not only their undeniable creativity, but also, the high standard of techniques that the designers have developed during their three years studying at Anglia Ruskin University. Giving these young designers the best possible chance at becoming, the future of fashion.
The Show was due to begin at 7:30pm, and by 7:20pm, most seats had already been filled! An array of family, friends and public, awaited and a buzz of excitement filled the venue, until the lights dipped and all fell quiet, and anticipation kicked in! Yasmin Greener opened the show, with her collection ‘Wonderlust’ and 15 more collections followed. All with their own unique qualities and a vast range of concepts. From the bright, pink, Womenswear collection ‘Cosmic Candy’ created by designer Layla Cheshem-Panam, with its futuristic minimalism, and clever use of the fabric Neoprene, making a youthful, fun, collection that encompasses the modern young lady. To the digital printing techniques showcased in designer Marissa Chu’s, collection ‘Digital Haze’. Which portrayed an element of Sportswear, combined with colourful mixed prints, inspired by movement and light. During the show, there was only one Menswear collection unveiled. This was created by talented designer Adrian Burac, The Spring/Summer 2015 collection ‘La Douleur Exquise’ was inspired by Romanian Folklore. Contrasting, colourful paintings and the mysticism of the occult, enabled the designer to develop a collection that portrayed strong impressions of darkness and light. With colourful printed t-shirts, and classic printed shorts, Burac was able to maintain a summer feel, within such a strong concept!
The final collection to grace the catwalk, was the beautifully created ‘Asteraceae’ collection by Designer Agnieszka Zabek. This Collection created for Spring/Summer 2015, conveyed the essence of femininity. Its use of surface textiles techniques, added softness to the elaborate cuts that were used. The designer used soft pastel colours of pink and blue, which helped to create a collection that any woman should be proud to wear.
Whilst the beautiful models sashayed down the catwalk, to an array of different styles of music, the audience looked on in awe at the collections, that these young designers had created. Family members looked on with pride, of how far these designers had come in the past 3 years. And this left one question... How far is there yet to go? Judging by the innovative creativity and beautiful craftsmanship skills, my guess is a long way. These talented designers can now move forward into an exciting new chapter, in their career within the fashion industry, which should welcome them with open arms!
Photography: Betinho Ribeiro
Saturday, 7 June 2014
Rihanna and The Dress: Fashion Statement or Indecent Exposure…?
The date: Monday 2nd of June 2014. The Event: The Council of Fashion Designers of America Awards. The surprise: Rihanna in that dress…!
There have been many controversial media stirs over the years, that have been brought about by a host of celebrities, stepping out at red carpet events with the one intention, to get the attention! Remember Liz Hurley, back in 1994? stealing the lime light, at the film premier of Four Weddings and a Funeral, with her risqué, black, Versace, safety pin dress. Reminding the public of the power of the right dress! The moment Madonna, bared her breasts on the catwalk in Los Angeles in 1992, for noted, French, Fashion designer, Jean Paul Gaultier. And who can count the many times that Lady Gaga has confused the public, with her strange, yet genius artistic expression, through Fashion?
Fashion is arguably one of the most influential tools used, in the art of self expression. Helping to form identities, through creating thought provoking opinions. This poses the question...
Was Rihanna’s dress a fashion statement? Or rather, was exposing her body the intended statement? Will Adam Selman, the designer of the beautifully handcrafted, sheer, dress, that is embellished with no less than, 216.000 Swarovski crystals, be the main focus? Or will Rihanna’s nearly naked body be the focal point? What was the message Rihanna was trying to project? Fashion Statement? Quiet possibly, it was an awards ceremony within the Fashion Industry, after all! A message of power and choice for women? This could also be possible, as Rihanna is well known for pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable in society. Or could it be, just a publicity stunt to ensure Rihanna stays in the fore front of the media? Is there really, no such thing as bad publicity? Regardless of the meaning behind the dress, it sparked a thought, as to why some women feel the need to expose there bodies, to project power? It could be suggested to imply a rebellious persona, that says “I am a woman in the 21st Century and i will choose to wear whatever i please” However, there was a time, not so long ago, when women expressed power through clothing in a very different manner. This would be in the 1980s, a time when women created a powerful persona, through adopting a androgynous look. Wearing masculine suits with shoulder pads, as a means to feel empowered and be taken seriously. This look opposes the overtly sexual and feminine look adorned by Rihanna, wearing the Adam Selman Gown. Can two, so very different styles, send out the same message? Or could it be that the over exposure of a women's body, is not a show of empowerment, but rather a statement that devalues women. Keeping them at the forefront of being sexualised and not being taken seriously in society. Something that women have worked so hard, to break free from for many years. Not only could it be argued to devalue women, it could also have a knock on effect, on the very impressionable youth culture of today! Rihanna, could be said to be one of the most influential icons of adolescent girls in the 21st century. Young girls that may not have any other strong female role models in their life or the parental guidance to keep there feet on the ground. Questioning whether a style icon, who is also a pop icon to many an adolescent girl or boy, should be questioning the message’s they send out. Although the dress was stunning and Rihanna looked sensational. Would there have been a better time and place to be exposed? Put in every day context, wouldn't the average person stepping out of a car, with there breast exposed, to go into a bar, be accused of indecent exposure??? Lets hope this look does not catch on with young girls, who love to follow trends and are inspired by pop icons!
We are all aware that sexuality plays an enormous role in the Fashion industry, as in almost all other media and creative industries. And there were many celebrities who attended the CFDA Awards who managed to look effortlessly, stunning and sexually attractive, without the need to take it to the next level. Just look at Heidi Klum, wearing Donna Karen, or Emmy Rossum, dressed in a stunning, lime green, gown by J Mendel. Although there has been mixed opinions, regarding Rihanna wearing that dress, in the right context it would be perfectly appropriate, as a costume for a film or concert, on the catwalk or just any environment where the public would have a choice, as to whether they were exposed to it!
There have been many controversial media stirs over the years, that have been brought about by a host of celebrities, stepping out at red carpet events with the one intention, to get the attention! Remember Liz Hurley, back in 1994? stealing the lime light, at the film premier of Four Weddings and a Funeral, with her risqué, black, Versace, safety pin dress. Reminding the public of the power of the right dress! The moment Madonna, bared her breasts on the catwalk in Los Angeles in 1992, for noted, French, Fashion designer, Jean Paul Gaultier. And who can count the many times that Lady Gaga has confused the public, with her strange, yet genius artistic expression, through Fashion?
Fashion is arguably one of the most influential tools used, in the art of self expression. Helping to form identities, through creating thought provoking opinions. This poses the question...
Was Rihanna’s dress a fashion statement? Or rather, was exposing her body the intended statement? Will Adam Selman, the designer of the beautifully handcrafted, sheer, dress, that is embellished with no less than, 216.000 Swarovski crystals, be the main focus? Or will Rihanna’s nearly naked body be the focal point? What was the message Rihanna was trying to project? Fashion Statement? Quiet possibly, it was an awards ceremony within the Fashion Industry, after all! A message of power and choice for women? This could also be possible, as Rihanna is well known for pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable in society. Or could it be, just a publicity stunt to ensure Rihanna stays in the fore front of the media? Is there really, no such thing as bad publicity? Regardless of the meaning behind the dress, it sparked a thought, as to why some women feel the need to expose there bodies, to project power? It could be suggested to imply a rebellious persona, that says “I am a woman in the 21st Century and i will choose to wear whatever i please” However, there was a time, not so long ago, when women expressed power through clothing in a very different manner. This would be in the 1980s, a time when women created a powerful persona, through adopting a androgynous look. Wearing masculine suits with shoulder pads, as a means to feel empowered and be taken seriously. This look opposes the overtly sexual and feminine look adorned by Rihanna, wearing the Adam Selman Gown. Can two, so very different styles, send out the same message? Or could it be that the over exposure of a women's body, is not a show of empowerment, but rather a statement that devalues women. Keeping them at the forefront of being sexualised and not being taken seriously in society. Something that women have worked so hard, to break free from for many years. Not only could it be argued to devalue women, it could also have a knock on effect, on the very impressionable youth culture of today! Rihanna, could be said to be one of the most influential icons of adolescent girls in the 21st century. Young girls that may not have any other strong female role models in their life or the parental guidance to keep there feet on the ground. Questioning whether a style icon, who is also a pop icon to many an adolescent girl or boy, should be questioning the message’s they send out. Although the dress was stunning and Rihanna looked sensational. Would there have been a better time and place to be exposed? Put in every day context, wouldn't the average person stepping out of a car, with there breast exposed, to go into a bar, be accused of indecent exposure??? Lets hope this look does not catch on with young girls, who love to follow trends and are inspired by pop icons!
We are all aware that sexuality plays an enormous role in the Fashion industry, as in almost all other media and creative industries. And there were many celebrities who attended the CFDA Awards who managed to look effortlessly, stunning and sexually attractive, without the need to take it to the next level. Just look at Heidi Klum, wearing Donna Karen, or Emmy Rossum, dressed in a stunning, lime green, gown by J Mendel. Although there has been mixed opinions, regarding Rihanna wearing that dress, in the right context it would be perfectly appropriate, as a costume for a film or concert, on the catwalk or just any environment where the public would have a choice, as to whether they were exposed to it!
Tuesday, 21 January 2014
What is so special about a White T Shirt...?
The answer is, that this simplistic understated item of clothing, can speak volumes! It may, quite possibly be the most basic item of clothing, gracing almost every wardrobe on the planet. But this staple garment has stood the test of time and can go from, casual workwear to chic and classic, depending on how its worn and what it is teamed with. Take a look back through time, in almost every decade since the early 20th century, the classic white T shirt, has reared its head, and stood strong, to defy the test of time. Whether worn as undershirts by navy soldiers in the early 1900s or in the super cool portrayal of James Dean in the 1950s, one thing is for certain, while other items of clothing pop in and out of fashion, the white T shirt remains one of the classic pieces that will not budge!
But why? What is it about this garment that stops it from dying out? Being one of the most simple and what could be argued, plain item of clothing, surely it should just fade away into the past, as there is nothing about it that grabs peoples attention, or is there...? The answer is, yes, there is a reason why this bare essential, has stood the test of time. It allows a person to portray their own style. It is an item of clothing that is not too overpowering and creates the basis of a desired look, when teamed with the right items of clothing, It is the safe item of clothing that can be relied on, and will not be subject to criticism. With countless variations whether length, shape, neckline, pockets, no pockets, short sleeve or cap sleeve, the white T shirt, is one of the most adaptable items of clothing to ever be created.
The white T shirt is also the advertisers dream, as it is a canvas, that allows complete focus on product imagery. Allowing it not only to be a fashion essential but also the perfect marketing tool, that any company can put its stamp on. This suggests that its popularity is majorly impacted by its versatility, and this may be one of the reasons as to why its popularity remains. However its could just be the simple fact that, whether worn for comfort or dressed up for an evening out, a crisp white T shirt, compliments most wearers. It portrays a style that is clean cut, fresh, classic and looks effortless. And when teamed with a pair of classic blue jeans, you just can't go wrong!
But why? What is it about this garment that stops it from dying out? Being one of the most simple and what could be argued, plain item of clothing, surely it should just fade away into the past, as there is nothing about it that grabs peoples attention, or is there...? The answer is, yes, there is a reason why this bare essential, has stood the test of time. It allows a person to portray their own style. It is an item of clothing that is not too overpowering and creates the basis of a desired look, when teamed with the right items of clothing, It is the safe item of clothing that can be relied on, and will not be subject to criticism. With countless variations whether length, shape, neckline, pockets, no pockets, short sleeve or cap sleeve, the white T shirt, is one of the most adaptable items of clothing to ever be created.
The white T shirt is also the advertisers dream, as it is a canvas, that allows complete focus on product imagery. Allowing it not only to be a fashion essential but also the perfect marketing tool, that any company can put its stamp on. This suggests that its popularity is majorly impacted by its versatility, and this may be one of the reasons as to why its popularity remains. However its could just be the simple fact that, whether worn for comfort or dressed up for an evening out, a crisp white T shirt, compliments most wearers. It portrays a style that is clean cut, fresh, classic and looks effortless. And when teamed with a pair of classic blue jeans, you just can't go wrong!
Tuesday, 7 January 2014
Are we creating our own identities through fashion, or is the fashion industry creating them for us??
We all know that fashion is forever throwing trend, after trend at us, moving so fast only the devoted followers and those that can afford the for ever changing array of styles are able to keep up. But how much of our identities to we owe to the fashion industry??? Although not everybody has an interest in current trends, it could be suggested that even picking the most ordinary items of clothing, that it has still been through a production line of influences and decisions, before it hits the sales floor! Posing the question our we really the makers of our own identity through fashion or are our choices limited to what has been decided for us?
For decades, people have used clothing as a way of portraying who they are and what they believe in. Just look back to the 1980s, the era of punk, or even the image of the 1950s housewife. What people wear and how they wear it, allows people to identify where and what group, they belong to in society. The very notion of distinction through clothing was displayed to me more than ever recently, when the high street label Joules, opened its doors for the first time in my local town, It got me questioning have they created a uniform for the middle class??? Or is it that looking middle class has become the trend? It could be said that the creators of Joules have very cleverly created a brand with the very idea of giving the sense of belonging to a particular group.
Joules is just one example of a company that has a link with identity, there are many others, Laura Ashley, the perfect uniform for motherhood, Fat Face, for the laid back, free thinker, These high street stores all create new seasonal collections but seem exempt from trend, as they have developed their own brand of style. It could be suggested that changing trends and the movements that are current in society at the time, have a enormous influence on developing identities throughout different eras. However these companies, that have developed a brand of style, have been able create a look that creates a firm identity with groups that may not fade with time and could possibly achieve longevity in society.
But who is the instigator of such strong influences? Although the fashion industry is filled to the brim with creativity, the concepts and ideas have to come from somewhere! But where? Usually from what is all around us, what is happening in society and what we ourselves, have created. So it could be said, that though our identities are influenced by fashion, fashion is influence by us.
We all know that fashion is forever throwing trend, after trend at us, moving so fast only the devoted followers and those that can afford the for ever changing array of styles are able to keep up. But how much of our identities to we owe to the fashion industry??? Although not everybody has an interest in current trends, it could be suggested that even picking the most ordinary items of clothing, that it has still been through a production line of influences and decisions, before it hits the sales floor! Posing the question our we really the makers of our own identity through fashion or are our choices limited to what has been decided for us?
For decades, people have used clothing as a way of portraying who they are and what they believe in. Just look back to the 1980s, the era of punk, or even the image of the 1950s housewife. What people wear and how they wear it, allows people to identify where and what group, they belong to in society. The very notion of distinction through clothing was displayed to me more than ever recently, when the high street label Joules, opened its doors for the first time in my local town, It got me questioning have they created a uniform for the middle class??? Or is it that looking middle class has become the trend? It could be said that the creators of Joules have very cleverly created a brand with the very idea of giving the sense of belonging to a particular group.
Joules is just one example of a company that has a link with identity, there are many others, Laura Ashley, the perfect uniform for motherhood, Fat Face, for the laid back, free thinker, These high street stores all create new seasonal collections but seem exempt from trend, as they have developed their own brand of style. It could be suggested that changing trends and the movements that are current in society at the time, have a enormous influence on developing identities throughout different eras. However these companies, that have developed a brand of style, have been able create a look that creates a firm identity with groups that may not fade with time and could possibly achieve longevity in society.
But who is the instigator of such strong influences? Although the fashion industry is filled to the brim with creativity, the concepts and ideas have to come from somewhere! But where? Usually from what is all around us, what is happening in society and what we ourselves, have created. So it could be said, that though our identities are influenced by fashion, fashion is influence by us.
Learning Curve!
I have to say, that it is amazing how quickly you can grasp learning something just by practicing over and over again. 12 weeks ago, I had never even made a garment, and here I am with 2 complete toiles and 1 finished tailored shirt. I have to admit, that my unpicker, is now my best friend and there has been many a learning curve along the way, but none the less, with determination and practise, I have picked up skills and pace too! 
Never be harsh on yourself about the mistakes you make, as this is when you learn the most!
Never be harsh on yourself about the mistakes you make, as this is when you learn the most!
Saturday, 4 January 2014
Busy Bee
So after setting up this blog with all the good intentions of updating on a weekly bases, I have to say, I underestimated how I was going to fit regular writing into my already busy schedule!!! With uni deadlines looming over me and unforeseen life circumstances, something had to give! Anyway with life back on track, I have finally found some time to get back in the game!!! I think the fact I have had no time to write, is a good example for any budding Fashion Student, of just how much a fashion degree takes over your life!!
So, over the past six weeks I have been a busy bee, working on three modules two practical and one written piece! After Making two toiles of tailored shirts, I have finally managed to complete my first actual shirt! and it pleases me greatly to say that it actually looks like a shirt!!! This tells me that during what has seemed like a whirlwind of information, i must have taken something on board and learnt some very valuable new skills. Relief, that student debt isn't in vain!! I have also been working on a design process based on the concept of Masculinity and Femininity, and creating one of my final designs. Over the next two weeks I hope to upload some images of my journey through the last 12 weeks, and my final garments! but for now, I have to crack on and hit that deadline!! Thanks for viewing :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)