Girl About Fashion (G.A.F)

Fashion is all about who ONE knows!

2007-03-30T13:34:00.000+01:00

Kyzar Chic Presents...

JERRY RIBBON
Autumn/ Winter 2007-08 Collection
EMBARGO

Contact: Muchaneta Kapfunde
T: +44 (0) 870 863 5412
F: +44 (0) 207 704 2994
M: +44 (0) 793 410 9724
E: muchaneta@kyzar-entertainment.com

Kyzar Chic, a new and fabulous division of the established Kyzar Group, is going to be hosting the must attend fashion event of this month, at the newly refurbished west end venue 24 were celebrity Mischa Barton, of OC fame, recently hosted a party for the footwear brand Keds*.

The stylish monthly episode is going to be the much needed platform for tomorrows fashion darlings, and promises to concentrate more on fashion talent rather than fashion fluff. Kyzar Chic will assist in unveiling unsung fashion designers to a vogue like crowd.

The much anticipated soiree aims to give attendees the opportunity to converse in the usual fashion lingo while networking, making contacts and predicting “who is hot enough right now to be crowned the next Giles Deacon”.

DATE:
Thursday 26th April 2007

PLACE:
24 London

EVENT SCHEDULE:
19.00-20.00: Drinks Reception & Entertainment by Couture Clubbing
20.00- 21.00: Jerry Ribbon AW 07/08 Collection
21.00- Late: After Party

For Press or General information enquiries please get in touch.

---------------------------END---------------------------

Special thanks to: Giampietro Zebellin and Sandy Huang at Jerry Ribbon; Stewart and Hannah at 24 London; Photographer-Giovanni Pincay; Michelle Short at Mï-mö Models; Nina Baldwin at London College of Fashion; Make Up Artists- Elena Diaz & Rowena Wilson; Amy Winters and Kseniya Zagorodnyuk at Couture Clubbing, Filming- Robert & Luisa at Style Scouting
Editors Notes:

Kyzar Chic is the brainchild a well known company in the event management industry. Kyzar Chic’s objective is to bring the crème de la crème of unsung fashion designers to the forefront of the fashion world while creating a networking platform for the budding and established fashionistas.

Lovin' Ugly Betty?

2007-01-15T20:58:00.000Z

Finally, we across the pond aka London have now been exposed to the betty-mania that has gripped the US. The Devil wears Prada (DWP) like TV comedy centres aroud Betty, the 'ugly' girl who through sheer luck manages to break through into the image conscious bitchy world of glossy magazines.

Employed because of her lack of looks and sex appeal she, unlike the Anne Hathaway character Andrea in DWP, thrives in the image obessed world. Luckily I have watched the whole season, and to be quite honest Ugly Betty looses its appeal the more i watched it. I stopped feeling sorry for Ugly Betty and instead found her annoying, actually the whole thing annoying. Unlike DWP if you bore of the plot, you can at least drool over the clothes that Andrea and the whole cast wears, which for me made the film just fabulous!

Last Words: Enjoy Ugly Betty for all the moral messages it sends, but if you are tunning in to see what we will be wearing next season think again, unless Betty's car crash wardobe becomes the next must have- unlikely if i have anything to do with it (famous last words?)!!!

This Seasons...

2007-01-15T20:39:00.000Z

Fashion No No’s

Big Hair- Think Rachel “size zero”

Waistcoats- they have served their time and it is time to lay this fashion has been to rest.

Glitter- anything that sparkles like an over decorated Christmas tree should be avoided at all costs, unless it’s a Harry Winston.

White Stilettos- I have honestly ever witnessed one person who beyond fashion nature actually managed to pull off white stilettos and that was Kate Moss. Stop tryingto re-invent the fashion wheel because Kate Moss you are most likely not. So I beg of you please leave this fashion faux pas out of your wardrobe.

Leggings- Every time I walk past every high street shop, every mannequin is wearing this offending item. It is a piece of fashion history that belongs in the Cyndi Lauper era, so why for the love of God is it still adorning fashion rags!

Anything with Stripe’s- especially tops with black and white horizontal lines. I mean that style is so like 4 seasons old, yes that’s right 4 seasons old people.

Jeans with embroidery- Flower power and smiley faces embroided on jeans in fuchsia and offending neon colours is fashion suicide at its best!

Tweed Shorts with tights- actually any shorts accompanied with black opaque tights are very offensive and way over done. What you are all not aware off is that this was some High level fashion stylist’s idea of joke that has been taken too far, I mean how else can I can accept how this fashion offence came about but to believe that it was joke.

Fashion Must Have’s

First and foremost allow me to confirm that skinny jeans are still rivalling the boot cut and winning. So make them a staple must have.

Think about making your fabulous your wardrobe more fab with something belonging to the purple/violet family or the colour forest green.

Brightly coloured tights will be the must have that will jazz up any black outfit or make a short denim skirt look just marvellous.

Vest Tops in contrasting colours layered together to make an outfit scream unordinary. Think Brown vest top married with an orange vest top and skinny jeans with pointy heals (at least 3 inches to lengthen those legs) or if you are going casual then think converse trainers.

Chunky Jewellery is still reigning in fashion, and is wonderful for jazzing up plain outfits. Imagine a black wrap around DVF dress with bright red chunky necklace and earrings- fashion fab!

Silk Head Scarves accompanied with the latest channel sunglasses- for visual think Jackie O.

Lastly here’s a beauty tip- thicker sculptured eyebrows are the no argument must have, definitely worth the shame of going through the humiliation of letting your eyebrows grow back before visiting you eyebrow shaper to get them perfected. Go on, give it a try I dare you!

The latest Fashionable must see Blog!

2007-01-15T20:14:00.000Z

The latest fashionable blog that every divalicious fashionistas should set their eyes on can be viewed at: http://stylescout.blogspot.com/.

It looks at the happening trends on the streets of London...with pictures of trend making non-conforming fashionistas making their mark on the ever changing fashion world.

Enjoy!

GAF

GAF 10 cents on...Hot and Happenin' Dec 2006

2006-12-16T22:51:00.000Z

When it comes to fashion, there is always something hot and happenin', the question is whether you know the difference between whats hot now and whats hot yesterday. On that note here is some hot and happenin' news on whats going on in fashion:

Mulberry, the fabulous British Brand, has opened its first US store in Manhattan, NY. Every British fashionista east of he river turned up to clink champagne glasses and reminisce about home. Arckid performed to an eager crowd, who by that point had had their fill of dirnk and canapes. Attendees included Jamie Lynn Sigler. Liv Tyler and Royston Langdon.

Lancome 6th Colour Design Awards in aid of cancer charity Clic sargent had guests like yasmin Le Bon, Elle Macpherson, Lulu Guinness, Tamara Mellon and Kelly Brook. A little birdie informed GAF that some of the guests where less than impressed by declaring "I already have these products".

D&G Cruise Collection 07 is one that seems to be taking the fashion world by storm. So why not take a glance at www.dolcegabbane.it and let me know your thoughts. It is rather refreshing and thats saying alot on my part as i am not the biggest D&G fan!

The must have article of clothing seems to be a T-Shirt. Created by Henry Holland, these are cheeky t-shirts available nationwide at the uber cool Urban Outfitters in four designs priced #35.00 each. Some the slogans on the t-shirt state "Back to mine Calvin Klein"- ewww i dont think so...right?

The latest must have label is Aussie designer 'Lover'. A label with a loyal cult following and humble beginnings, a market stall in Bondi, it has now become a label too watch. I just hope iot doesnt go the route of Von Dutch!

Just when I thought that the fashion world was going to be ODing on the amout of Jean labels available to us, out comes another. Word on Bond Street is that 18th Amendment is the only jeans label one should own. Labelled the 'boyfriend' jean it now rivals the skinny. But something tells me to continue holding onto my True Religion!

Another Christmas, anothe Gap Ad...

Fur is hot this season. Yes PETA it sure is. But I think I will stick to my Cashmere Coat...it is just pure luxury!

Do YOU know the Who's Who of fashion?

2006-12-14T20:33:00.000Z

If you have to ask who Alexander Shulman is or why Giles Deacon is hailed so highly then you must hide your face in shame. Those are names that are part of the who's who of fashion. They are the ones that can play the puppet master role if they choose too. So being the fabulously generous fashionistas I will fill you in, so at least if you bump into them at the dinner party you can at least recognise the difference between flash in the pan fashionistas and the 'Donald Trump' s of fashion. So heres my top 5 whos' who...

Phoebe Philo

Phoebe Philo's ascent to the top of the design world was a very subtle one. In early 2001, all but the truest fashion insiders were surprised to hear that Chloe chiefs had named this relatively unknown 27-year-old to replace Stella McCartney as creative director of the French fashion house. The job, rumoured to pay upwards of £100,000-a-year, had been tipped for a much bigger name designer. For Chloe, which sells in 270 shops worldwide, she now designs four collections a year: two for the catwalk, and two mid-season collections as well. She maintains residences both in W2 and in the Pigalle district of Paris, and is currently romantically linked with Max Wigram, a freelance art curator and friend of Harland Miller, Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst. Friends include such notables as shoe designer Olivia Morris, stylist Katie Grand, and designer Luella Bartley.Chloe, 54-56 Rue Faubourg Saint Honoré, Paris 75008Tel: +33 (0)1 44 94 33 00

Camilla Morton

Ever since Camilla Morton skipped Guide Camp and booked a flight to Paris to see the Chanel show, things have been going horribly high end. Camilla started going to fashion shows long before she was invited, and went from being a television runner to The Daily Telegraph to Central Saint Martins and, eventually, Vogue as her finishing school. Then, after watching Sabrina too many times, she moved to Paris to polish off her look, more than her French, and worked for John Galliano at Dior. But Paris didn't suit her at the time and when the last light bulb popped she decided it was time to come home, bringing the expanded wardrobe with her. Her writing credits include a column in The Telegraph Magazine, POP, The Face, TIME (US), W (US), Harpers Bazaar (US), Vogue (Russia), The Times, The Sunday Times and Elle (UK), among others. But showtime is her passion and she has written runway reviews for VOGUE.COM as well as her blog, Camilla Says, with them. Camilla's first book How to Walk in High Heels was a UK bestseller and will be published in the US in September 2006. She is currently working on her second book.

Alexandra Shulman

Alexandra Shulman, Editor of British Vogue, presides over Britain's fashion bible from a pristine white office on the fifth floor of Vogue House, in London's Hanover Square. Since her appointment by Nicholas Coleridge in 1992, Shulman has seen Vogue's circulation rise to over 200,000 copies a month, with a readership of 1.1 million. Shulman began her career at Condé Nast in 1982, joining Tatler, where she spent five years, latterly as Features Editor under legendary editor Mark Boxer. In 1987, she joined The Sunday Telegraph, moving to Vogue as Features Editor in 1988 and becoming Editor of GQ in 1990. She later moved back to Vogue and produced her first issue as Editor in April 1992. She was elected to Condé Nast's UK board in 1997 and was named PPA Editor of the Year in the same year. In 2001, Vogue was named Consumer Magazine of the Year at the PPA Awards. Judges of the annual awards ceremony commended Shulman for her landmark Gold Issue of December 2000, saying: "We've never seen a magazine which has become a collector's item like this." Her memorable October 2000 cover, featuring Gisele Bundchen in a bikini posing with a naked Robbie Williams, was also commended at the Campaign Awards that year, being named runner-up for the title of Best Cover. Educated at St Paul's Girls School and Sussex University, Shulman is the daughter of theatre critic Milton Shulman and writer Drusilla Beyfus, author of Modern Manners. She was named Editors' Editor of the Year for 2004 at the British Society of Magazine Editors Awards and was awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours List for 2005 in recognition of services to the magazine industry. Vogue House, Hanover Square, London W1S 1JUTel: +44 (0)20 7499 9080

Giles Deacon

Born in County Durham and now working in Shoreditch, Giles Deacon became London's golden boy at the autumn/winter 2004 shows when he showed the first collection for his own label. The 34-year-old designer was the toast of Fashion Week after presenting a show that saw the likes of Eva Herzigova, Karen Elson, Nadja Auermann, Anouk Lepere and Erin O'Connor on the catwalk in the main hall of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea. And although his much-celebrated and supermodel-studded show more than lived up to its considerable hype, modest Deacon has his feet planted very firmly on the ground: "It's great that people think good things," he said afterwards. "But I take it with a pinch of salt." Rising star Deacon looks set to shine for some years to come.Giles Deacon, contact Karen Maher on Karen@karenmaher.com.

Joan Burstein

Having trained as a pharmacist, Joan Jotner's only experience with the fashion world was through her mother, who was a tailor for an uncle who worked in the rag trade, and two aunts who were dressmakers themselves. However, in 1944 she met Sidney Burstein and when she married him two years later, the Burstein empire was born.By the Fifties, Sidney's Ridley Road Market underwear stall had grown into a chain of shops, Neatawear, on Oxford Street, Regent Street and the Brompton Road. And then, even more quickly than it had grown up, it went bust. Determined to go on, the unbeatable Bursteins then set about creating Feathers - a shop on High Street Kensington which famously employed Manolo Blahnik as a shop assistant during the Sixties. "We had some good luck with feathers," explains Burstein. "And then our friend Vidal Sassoon had heard we wanted a new shop and he phoned us up and offered us the front of his in Sloane Street. He literally gave it to us on a plate. He knew us and felt for us." And so the empire began to grow again, with the Burstein children, Caroline and Simon - who is married to veteran French designer Sonia Rykiel's daughter Nathalie - working on the Sloane Street venue while their parents concentrated on what was to become their most famous venture yet - the shop on South Molton Street. In 1970, they bought 27 South Molton Street from Sir William Piggott-Brown, after whom they named the shop. Beginning with collections from Missoni, Sonia Rykiel and Ossie Clark, Browns rapidly became one of London's most important fashion sites and grew quickly to take up numbers 25,23,26 and 24. Credited with bringing such talents as Giorgio Armani, Comme des Garcons, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, Krizia, Ralph Lauren, Alexander McQueen and Jil Sander to London, Joan, who is affectionately known within the industry as Mrs B, is considered as influential as the designers whose creations she stocks. But her talent for spotting future fashion superstars, she says, is nothing more than a hunch. "It just happens," she says. "People say, 'How can you tell?' It's a feeling. It's a gut instinct." By 1997, Burstein's reputation for discovering the world's most important designers meant she had to open yet another shop across the road - this time to pioneer the careers of hot new names emerging into the industry. Today, for a designer to feature in a Browns window display is the ultimate recognition. Burstein was the first to showcase John Galliano's revolutionary Les Incroyables collection as well as the rusted and decomposed designs that Hussein Chalayan had buried in the ground to make up his first collection. Today, Browns is just as revolutionary as it ever was. One of London's most valued fashion landmarks, it continues to offer pieces that have been individually hand picked from the world's top designers. "We buy only the pieces we like," says Burstein, who counts travelling, theatre, and gardening among her non-fashion pastimes. "People often ask me, 'Are you shown different collections from everybody else?' No! We edit tremendously. I'm not dressing the world, just the woman who shops at Browns. It's all about quality and individuality. If they like one thing, they like it all - it's a concept." Browns, 24-27 South Molton Street, London W1 Tel:+44 (0)20 7514 0000

THE ABOVE INFORMATION IS COURTESY OF STYLE.COM.

SADO' Fashion House to Debut

2006-12-14T20:24:00.000Z

Hot, New and fabulous Fashion label SADO' will be debuting its Spring/Summer collection to the excitement of the London Fashion Crowd. Designer, Carlotta Gherzi, will be proudly introducing her creations among the usual fashion Glitz, Glam of London fashion. Want to witness an amazing collection then take note of the invite below and do what needs to be done.....the SADO' collection is never one to be missed!

Fashion Dates for the Fashionistas

2006-12-14T20:21:00.000Z

Pitti Uomo Florence 10th to 13th January 2007 Email: uomo@pittimmagine.com Website: http://www.pittimmagine.com/ Surf Expo Orlando 12th to 14th January 2007 Email: info@surfexpo.com Website: http://www.surfexpo.com/

Mens Fashion Week Milan 14th to 19th January 2007 Email: info@cameramoda.it Website: http://www.cameramoda.it/ IFF Tokyo Tokyo 17th to 19th January 2007 Email: iff-jul6@senken.co.jp Website: www.senken.co.jp/iff

Bread & Butter Barcelona & Berlin BARCELONA: 17th to 19th January 2007 BERLIN: 26th to 28th January 2007 Email: info@breadandbutter.com Website: www.breadandbutter.com

Pitti Bimbo Florence 19th to 21st January 2007 Email: bimbo@pittimmagine.com Website: http://www.pittimmagine.com/ Bright Frankfurt 20th & 21st January 2007 Email: info@brighttradeshow.com Website: www.brighttradeshow.com

Agenda San Diego Stitch New York NEW YORK: TBA SAN DIEGO: 25th to 27th January 2007 Registration: REGISTER ONLINE Email: info@agendashow.com Website: http://www.agendashow.com/

Bread & Butter Barcelona & Berlin BARCELONA: 17th to 19th January 2007 BERLIN: 26th to 28th January 2007 Registration: REGISTER ONLINE Email: info@breadandbutter.com Website: www.breadandbutter.com

Premium Berlin 26th to 28th January 2007 Email: info@premiumexhibitions.com Website: http://www.premiumexhibitions.com/ Afair Antwerp 28th & 29th January 2007 Email: info@afair.be Website: www.afair.be

The Exclusive Los Angeles & Las Vegas LOS ANGELES: 28th & 29th January 2007 LAS VEGAS: 14th to 16th February 2007 Email: info@theexclusiveshow.com Website: www.theexclusiveshow.com

Premiére Classe – a/w 2007 Hall 5.1, Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles, Paris, France Runs until: 20th-23rd February 2007 Contact: Patricia Lerat http://www.premiere-classe.com/ T: 00 33 1 4013 7470 E: info@whosnext.com

Premiére Classe – a/w 2007 Hall 5.1, Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles, Paris, France Runs until: 18th-21st February 2007 Contact: Patricia Lerat http://www.premiere-classe.com/ T: 00 33 1 4013 7470 E: info@whosnext.com

Trend to Watch..

2006-11-26T22:04:00.000Z

Red Sunglasses

Next summer is all about Red, yes i said Red Sunglasses are going to be all the rage. This is a fashion trend that is going to be picked up by all those fabulous fashionistas all over the world over who are already in the know about this emerging trend.

Granted, adorning Red Sunglasses takes an outgoing personality and strength for some, but believe me it is a look that will make you look divalicious. Guys note that I said divalicious, it looks like this is going to be a trend just for the girls, unless you want to take the Elton John route or you are one of those rare individuals who can make anything look trendworthy.

Hint: Scout the vintage shops for red sunglasses that are wide rimmed, nicole richie big and fabulous! If you cannot bothered go designer!

Black is hot...and I am not talking about the little black dress!

2006-11-26T14:35:00.000Z

This season, Black nail varnish is hot, hot, hot! Everyone is going black in fashion, film and music. I have no idea who started this fab trend, but i must commend them because for this fashionista it was love at first site!

For those who are not brave enough to paint their finger nails black quite yet you can always try the very delicious deep chocolatey brown that is also, at this moment, hot enough to the rival the black.

Fashion Around the world- Atlanta, GA

2006-11-21T13:30:00.000Z

Can the fashionable south rise again?

In some parts of the world fashion is something that cannot be dictated. There are people who actually dress to the beat of their own drum. This could essentially be considered a good thing but when its bad, then its really bad! During my visit to Atlanta, GA, I have seen a fashion style that has made me cry out "Oh Why". Admittingly it wasnt that people were walking around with neon shell suits or white high heels with socks, its just that they seem to put very little effort in what they wore, and when they did they seemed to take it that little bit too far.

It seems that comfort plays a big part in how Atlanta women dress. You know what i mean, the man jeans, the sweatshirt, and trainers (sneakers to some of you). Then when it comes to dressing it up, I feel like explaining the take one piece of theory known to all fashionistas.

Granted the styel i am describing is not the style adopted by all, but it was indeed the style of the majority. Last words? Come on you Atlanta southerners jazz it up a tad. You have great weather down here, cute boutiques both vintage and designer and your prices are out of this world. So come on be part of the rising of the fashionable south and shine with pride!

Hints: Here are a few cute places that became home to me and should be a must visit in Atlanta for those fashionistas who love individual style at great prices!

-Junkman's Daughter- Moreland Ave, Atlanta GA
-Psycho Sisters- Moreland Ave, Atalnta, GA
-East Atlanta Village, Atlanta, GA- especially check out Sugar Britches
-Virginia Highlands, Atlanta GA
-Lastly, for those who enjoy shopping at a more recognised chain store check out Forever 21 for the cutest dresses a girl fashionista can ever own!!!

Are Skinny Jeans here to stay?

2006-10-26T12:53:00.000+01:00

Hands up those who are still wearing their skinny jeans with pride? If you are, then you are not alone.

It seems that it is not only the mere mortals holding onto this craze, that celebs are also holding on tight to their beloved skinny jeans, and making sure that the skinny jean trend is one that will not be easily dismissed and fearfully be made fashionable again in some back town local newspaper’s fashion pages A.K.A the fashion cemetery of has been’s.

This season was all about the skinny trousers/pants. This was indeed a trend that was well on its way to taking over the skinny jeans trend, but now alas they are no longer the coolest clothing item to own. I mean heck, they are still fabulous but skinny jeans are here to stay, and may they continue to reign until some fickle minded fashionista’s decides “off with the skinny”!

Paris F/W- Lie Sang Bong Catwalk show

2006-10-12T23:42:00.000+01:00

During Paris Fashion Week, the Lie Sang Bong catwalk collection, that took place at le Carrousel du Louvre, was just breathtakingly beautiful.

My full article on the 'LIE SANG BONG Collection' is available to read at fashion_enter.co.uk

Paris F/W- ES Catwalk show

2006-10-12T23:19:00.000+01:00

Attended the ES catwalk show at Ecole Nationale Superieure des beaux-arts during Paris Fashion Week. The collection could definetly be described as having suceeded in expressing the designers vision.

My full article on the 'ES Collection' is available to read at fashion_enter.co.uk

Livin’, Lovin’ and being Fashion Fabulous...winding down.

2006-10-08T12:22:00.000+01:00

Then there was the band who sang very catchy songs- I say this because I am sure I was singing them in my sleep when I finally got home. Look out for a link on GAF so you too can catch their performance because they had to be seen, to be believed:

Take a look at the style taken on by the lead singer- it has to be admired.

Soon enough the party reached the 3am mark, and still showed no sign of winding down to an end. The drinks were still flowing, everyone was still having fun and being tipsy was mandatory! Before you could say "God I am drunk" I found myself quite happily posing for the pap's.

My high point was when the DJ started to play 70's disco music; it was then that I knew that there was no going back, especially when Kool and the Gang came on. Before I could say, "I love that song" my new gay best friend pulled me up from the white leather and rather comfortable sofa onto the dance floor were we both boogied like we had absolutely no care in the world- the pictures taken of me dancing will hopefully never surface!

More pics...

Ylayn with fellow partygoer

GA Editor became quite chummy with New York Singer and Leader of a french band-L.I.B.I.D.O

The fairy spreads some love!

Fashion Fantastic- fellow brit!

Fashion Fabulous- Another Brit

Parisian Girls livin' it up

Strike a pose!

As the end draws near, everyone is getting very merry indeed!

Livin’, Lovin’ and being Fashion Fabulous-Part Deux

2006-10-08T00:44:00.000+01:00

As the celebrations continued and the alcohol flowed freely, the people started to become wilder (shamefully including the GA girl...look out for the foot worship pic- blush).

*A Kylie song gets the boys dancing

*This partygoer professed his love of Vogue's Editor Anna Wintour

*GAF Editor and friend Ylayn take a break in the toilet

* Braving the dance floor- the Parisians loosen up

* GA Editor being foot worshipped by intoxicated Parisian- good thinking on that last minute pedicure!

*Looking Fabulous in a Tutu and yes that is a man in it

Fashion Editor for a magazine in Copenhagen and friend being the life and soul!

Livin’, Lovin’ and being Fashion Fabulous-Part Une

2006-10-07T19:35:00.000+01:00

Last night's fashion madness took place at a private members club in Paris- Les Bains. It was the kind of party where a password, believe it or not, was required to enter. Only then would the very big and intimidating door man, fashionably dressed in what looked like a black Armani suit, open the infamous red velvet rope.

So turning up around midnight dressed in my "robe" of the moment a red print mui-miu like dress, jewelled 4 inch heels and chocolate brown baker boy cap I whispered “15 minutes of fame” and then smiled as the rope was opened for my entrance into the soiree.

Once in I did the required rounds of air kissing before becoming part of the wild, loud, and fabulous party. I gladly took in the highly addictive energy that was being exuded by the chic Parisians, vogue-fab Brits and funky Americans who all had one thing in common: a shared passion for fashion.

Soon enough I found myself amongst the fabulous buzz of chatter, networking and catwalk gossip. Locating the open bar I ordered a much needed drink and it was only after few more fruity cocktails that I felt ready to start capturing the party's atmosphere with my ever ready camera...so GA readers allow me to introduce to you the splendid IT crowd a la fashion:

Part Deux to follow...keep on reading about GA's fashion frolics

GAF 10 cents worth on...Fashion Faux Pas' (a must read for the fashionably challenged)

2006-10-05T16:57:00.000+01:00

Avoid like the plague, heels that make your ankles look fat. Solve that problem by wearing round toed shoes if you have naturally thick ankles, because there is nothing more unattractive then looking like a hippo in heels.

If you are prone to doing the “Whoopi Goldberg” walk when in heels then for the love of God learn how to walk in them. I can confess having had the Whoopi Goldberg walk once upon a long time ago but I taught myself to walk in high heels by walking around my house in my Choos until I got the hang of it. Oh let me add just because you are finding walking in heels hard is no excuse to go and buy shoes that look like they belong in Herman Munster’s wardrobe!

Always trust your de ja va fashion instinct. For example do not buy those shoes/dress/skirt in a style that feels familiar because it probably 2 or 3 seasons old and magazines are using old celebrity pictures in to get the naive shopper to buy the been there, done that, has been's that any self respecting Fashionista would avoid at all costs!

Get to know the hot up and coming designers who havent quite hit Alexander McQueen status but are definitely on their way because you will always have access to great never worn before clothes that will most likely be made to suit your figure to pure perfection- camera, pose, fantastic.

Clean out your closet once in a while and get rid of all the fashion has been’s. Remember never look, back it distracts from the now!

When you go shopping always repeat these following very important statements, because they are as true as Christian Louboutins' are fabulous:

“It might look great on the hanger but that does not mean that it will look great on me.”

“Just because I love the outfit, it does not mean that the outfit will love me or my figure.”

Remember Tube Tops are for 15 year olds who know no better, and can probably pull them off more than a 25 year old in fashion denial. Your teen years are gone and are never coming back- Thank God- so please do not take the time tunnel it is so not a good look, especially on those fabulous fems blessed with a well endowed chest.

The most offensive shoes ever created are the thick-heeled shoes that are usually 3 inch wide with a 2-inch heel. I mean ewwww only a person without taste could have had the audacity to think that those can actually make our legs look pretty. If heels are not your thing try the ballet pump/shoe, it is so much cuter and always in fashion.

Okay this is going to sound a tad harsh because we all have that little tummy that wont go away including yours truly but please take note if any part of your body continues to wobble after you have stopped moving (excluding the bosom) then you should avoid wearing the following:

Low rise Jeans- the spare tire over the jeans is very unattractive and will never be hip no matter what you tell yourself.

Bikini- Ok we all havent got the Jessica Alba body nor can we all hold our breath for long periods of time- unless you are a trained diver- so therefore if you cant be bothered to tone your body but still want to look sexy on the beach try the tankatini.

Lycra in any form is not your friend because it makes your wobbly bits look larger than life.

Wearing too small shoes is just asking not only for corns but also for trouble! Scrunched up toes are just not pretty.

Do we all know what a ‘pedicure’ is? Because I do not understand how girls still in this day and age have the audacity to wear open toe shoes without so much of a foot scrub- the mind boggles. Please remember that crusty heels and broken toe nails are not cute!

If you flap your arms and your feet pretty much leave the ground then avoid vest/tank tops at all costs because they are the enemy. If you must wear the vest/tank top then at least buy the ones with the thick straps. As for my buffalo wings and I, we plan to invest in pretty light cardigans to go over my cute vest/tank tops!

Backless tops are made for those who do not need to wear a bra. There is nothing more fashion car crash then seeing 36dd’s in a backless top with no bra- ouch!

The world of D on D is my personal hell! Denim on Denim is such an awful combination that I never know what the people who wear this as an outfit (especially men) are thinking. Very few men can pull off D on D and the D&G team are pretty much the only ones. As for women, I am yet to meet one that can make D & D fabulous.

Wearing a top that exposes your LHB (Low Hanging Boobs) is a fashion crime. Just because you have them does not mean that you have to have them hanging out literally. Have some dignity and invest in a wonder bra and push those puppies up!

Skintight flowery jeans are a big No-No in every language except in the world of Donatella Versace. We have to forgive her for her many worst fashion crimes because she continues to make Versace Vogue-Fab. As for everyone else it’s just a big fashion faux pas so just dont go there- ok?!?!?

As for white shoes.....I am just not going to go there!

With all that being said, do take note that YOU must be the one to make an outfit work, just be sure to not make the outfit turn you into a fashion faux pas!

DISCLAIMER:
These are fashion tips written in jest and are not meant to be taken literally. So do not let the tips offend your fashion sense/taste, keep being and looking fabulous the only way you know how.

When Fashion meets Hollywood

2006-10-05T16:20:00.000+01:00

ABOVE: When one Paris 'It' boy, one London model and one Hollywood movie star meet...

ABOVE: Chatty Chums

ABOVE: Enjoying the VIP- nightclub in Paris.

As fashion week in Paris plonks along quite nicely, I look back fondly to the last one in February 2006. Happily remembering how chummy I became with Hollywood Actress Jessica Alba at a fashion party that was held in VIP in Paris.

I found her to be enchanting and quite the opposite of how the tabloid magazines (that I shamefully love, love, love) have painted her to be. You know the usual bossy, bitchy, I want 100 pink roses and room temperature Fiji water kind of celeb.

Jessica (see how comfortable I am referring to her only by first name basis) was down to earth, and chatty I (and a few of my not so shy friends) took time to do the fan thing by asking her to pose for a few pictures with us and she happily obliged. Saying that I did resist asking her “How was it kissing the ever beautiful shirtless Paul Walker in the film “In the Blue”.

This kind of reminiscing has me wondering what “celebrity” I will spot during this season's Paris Fashion Week. Keep you posted, especially if I run into the dreamy Paul Walker- if any of you are still thinking, “Paul Walker ewwww” check out the film Into the Blue - sigh- but if you cant be bothered to sit through a c-list film then check out the following picture of Mr Walker himself that I have kindly added below- sigh!

ABOVE: The 'yummy' shirtless Paul walker- definetly screensaver worthy!

Fashion Spy bought to you by GAF

2006-10-04T02:43:00.000+01:00

I spy that...

...this season is all about the bubble, fur, metallics, oversizing and layering, looks that have been repeated over and over again on catwalks across the globe this season. Stay ahead and prepare yourself, pick a trend and stick with it and be prepared to look vogue fab this season.

FYI: COLOUR OF THE MOMENT- Any shade belonging to the "purple" family!

GAF 10 cents worth on...Skinny Model Ban

2006-10-04T02:01:00.000+01:00

(ABOVE:A Rosa Cha creation part of the Spring 2007 Fashion Week in New York 10/09/ 2006- Picture courtesy Reuters)

Everyones putting in their 10 cents worth on the recent sensitive topic on the skinny model "ban", so heres mine.

Fashion dictates whats hot including the must have models. Fashion wants a particular look, so Fashion demands it. Skinny is whats is in and it is here to stay, which is unfortunate for the curvier and more realistic body types that exist today- including mine.

Lastly, no matter what the PC squad demands, it is what Fashion demands that counts in today's modelling world.

Ones to watch...Designers

2006-10-04T00:35:00.000+01:00

While fashion week continues its whirlwind around the globe one must not forget that amongst the fashion madness there are up and coming designers aspiring to one day be celebrated at the most prestigious well documented event that takes place only twice a year- Fashion Week.

This month's ones to watch are:

Nirva

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Carla Ward

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SADO'

For more information on the featured up and coming designers please feel free to email editor.GAF@gmail.com

Become your own fashion icon!

2006-10-03T22:58:00.000+01:00

(ABOVE: Fashionable Parisians out and about- Pictures coutesy of Face Hunter)

Paris- September 2006

To be considered a bono fide Fashionista in Paris you must have your very own distinct style, a flair that will always get you noticed by all. You could be known as the girl who always finishes her outfit with a Philip Treacy hat or the guy who is always spotted wearing the brightest Oswald Boetang shirts.

Firstly, one must always be aware of the unspoken fashion rule; create your own indefinable stamp of individuality. It is this act of fashion individuality that will secure your place among the trend setting fashion clique- think Kate Moss as opposed to becoming the safer trend follower whose style resembles that of a Top Shop window mannequin.

Parisian trendsetters achieve their natural vogue-like-look by making sure that their appearance distinguishes them from the rest. Think SJP in SATC and how her look screamed individual style. Granted her outfits were sometimes jaw-dropping daring but she always managed to perfect the look with unprecedented confidence and self-assurance, and therefore appearing to look effortless and always at her most fabulous.

So how do you achieve this look, well the open secret is to seek those elusive vintage shops unknown to all but really just known to those in the know. They stock original fashion pieces that are not only well made but well priced. Luckily for the Parisians, Paris is one of those fashion cities that embraces this trend and therefore caters well to it.It is in Paris that you are still able to find the original vintage shops that are not overpriced or have the look of vintage but turn out not to be.

It is in these shops, usually located in quaint pebbled back streets, where one can find little treasures to accompany their newly purchased Prada dress or were one can stumble across a priceless 15 Euro vintage dress to compliment their beloved Christian Louboutin.So why not become a breath of fashion fresh air, leave the preferred lemming fashion behind you and become your very own style icon. You deserve to make your mark on fashion and create a look all of my own.

So take heed of these wise words, do not go through life unnoticed, instead just make sure that these must visit Vintage Parisian Boutiques take precedence in your little black book of fashion ASAP:

Come On Eileen located at 16-18 rue des Taillandiers, 11th Tel: 01.43.38.12.11/ Metro: Ledru-Rollin. Opening hours: 11.30am-8.30pm Mon-Fri; 4-8pm Sun.Three-floor vintage lovers dream. Stocking funky outfits that include ’60s debutantes’ frocks. TIP: seek and you will find great Hermes Scarves at fab prices.

Little black dress located at 125 galerie de Valois, 1st Tel: 01.40.15.01.04. Metro: Palais Royal Musée du Louvre. Opening hours: 11am-7pm Mon-Sat.Stocks vintage haute couture and stunning pieces such as Balenciaga, Dior, Puce, Fraud, Stern and of course Chanel, from the 1920s onwards.

Free ‘P’ Star located on 8 Ste-Croix-de-la-Bretonnerie, 4th Tel: 01.42.76.03.72/ Metro St-Paul. Opening hours: noon-11pm Swanky retro glitz, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s glad rags -Sat; 2-11pm Sun.and ex-army jackets.

L’Habilleur located 44 rue de Poitou, 3rdTel: 01.48.87.77.12/ Metro: St-Sébastien Froissart. Opening hours: 11am-8pm Mon-Sat.Specialises in stocking severely cut men’s and women’s wear by Helmut Lang, John Richmond, and dagger-toed shoes by Patrick Cox then make this place a must visit. All the pieces, which are end of line or off the catwalk, are 50% to 70% off.

Rag located at 83-85 rue St-Martin, 4thTel: 01.48.87.34.64/ Metro: Rambuteau. Opening hours: 10am-8pm Mon-Sat; noon-8pm Sun.Riffle through pilots’ navy jumpers, ’70s shirts,’70s heels and ’60s Paco Rabanne dresses or Gucci and Dior accessories.

Son et Image located at 87 rue St-Denis, 1stTel: 01.40.41.90.61/ Metro: Chalet. Opening hours: 10.30am-7.30pm Mon-Sat.Very popular second-hand clothes store is filled with vintage leather, fur coats and hip boots.

Stocks and Marques located at 65 rue de Lancry, 10thTel: 01.42.00.00.46/ Metro Jacques Bonsergent. Opening hours: noon-7.30pm Mon-Thur; noon-3.30pm Fri; 2-7pm Sun. NOTE: Closed Saturdays.Stocks top street wear labels at 30% of their original price would certainly pull them in. Look out for Diesel jackets. TIP: Invest some money in getting your bargain buy adjusted to your liking by a tailor or talented up and coming designer. Add or take away parts of the original outfit and put your very own fabulous fashion stamp on it.

ARTICLE FEATURED IN FASHION_ENTER (fashion_enter.co.uk)

Trends taking Paris by Storm

2006-10-03T22:32:00.000+01:00

(ABOVE: The Chloe handbag. For ore information visit: www.chloe.com)

Paris- September 2006

This season Parisians are rocking the trend movement and expressing themselves with hot smoking looks that are both daring and stylish at the same time.Among all the different styles on offer one of the more noticeable trends gripping Paris streets is the adopted style of fashion icons like Jean Shrimpton and Edie Sedgewick, which have been reborn into an effortless chic by the Parisian Fashionista’s.

When it comes to witnessing these traffic stopping fashion trends all one has to do is walk down any street in Paris and it will feel like you are watching a free fashion show.Now my favourite thing to do on a uneventful Sunday afternoon is to find a prime spot at a hip and happening Brassiere, order a cafe au lait and trend spot while countless trendy teens and their stylish older counterparts saunter past with shocking fashion fabulousness.

Now after much caffeine I have at last put together the top 10 must haves that will perfect your Parisian look and make it all seem effortless:

Classic raincoats- you can be safe and have it in beige or black, or you can be stylish and have it classic white or you can be fashionably brave and get it in hot pink, but either way this is a style to look fab in.

Oversize Bag- they are still hot, hot, hot and you can put everything in there including your kitchen sink! Try the warm chocolate colour which is the must have this season; this is a colour that will match at least 99% of your wardrobe, and for those with spare change to spend the Chloe Bag is this season's must have.

Must have mini dress- if you are going to show of those fab legs this winter think Bebe’s and do it in billowing baby doll dresses. They are great because they hide your body imperfections and make you look slender. Just avoid looking like tent and get a style that suits your body type- you have been warned.

White Boots- I never thought that I would ever find myself saying this as my pet hate is unfortunately white shoes but this season they are just fab when worn right. It seems that every Parisian owns a pair of white shoes. Pixie boots in white are very hot and happening at the moment, so if you can pull them off then great! If not then try the style in another colour instead of white.

Tweed Cropped Boxy Jackets- this, in my opinion, is a style that any body shape can pull off. They are hip, trendy and a definite must have. If this style is not to your taste then take a look at the similar wide cropped jackets or the Volume jackets that are adorning the catwalk this season.

Bubble Skirts- seems every Parisian teenager is wearing this trend but that doesn't mean that us 20 something’s and over can’t make it work. So why not give it a try.

Skinny Trousers (pants)- Forget skinny jeans, skinny trousers are taking over. Put away those bootleg trousers and try the skinny style. They are just like the jeans but give a smarter look. Go on, I dare you.

Thigh High flat boots- I know, I know, a boot without a heal just sounds unexciting but trust me when complimented with a mini dress and a cute raincoat you will instantly become fashion fab.

Metallic silver, gold or bronze Ballet shoes- they are my favourite must haves. Why you might ask, well they can make an outfit look fashion fab with little effort. If you are going on a glam night out but your feet cant take another night in 4 inch Choos then the ballet shoes are your lifesavers. The must have colours this season are metallic silver, gold or bronze.Anything

Leopard Print- Yes, leopard print is making a coming back. Many Parisians are now saying good bye to the basic black. If you want to take on this trend cautiously then try a belt, if you are braver then get a coat, boots or skinny trousers in leopard print. Either way I am sure that you will make it work, just don't go over board.

The Elusive Man Purse

2006-10-03T22:15:00.000+01:00

(ABOVE: Longchamp man purse from their current collection. Prices starting at £320)

Paris- August 2006

Since the dawn of its birth and even more so after Joey in Friends appeared in an episode proudly carrying one- the man purse, the male handbag to some, has been a well argued and documented fashion trend. It is one of those fashion must haves that has had its pros and cons dissected and discussed to the extreme. Yet it seems that this male fashion accessory is still considered by many as a de-masculinating trend for the everyday average man.

In a world were the metro sexuality movement is making millions for the beauty and fashion industry, the man purse is still a taboo style that seems to mainly attract gay men or the Fashionista males in the fashion industry, who show no shame as they proudly swing their Vuitton and Gucci’s with pride while strutting down fashionable avenues.In Paris, the man purse trend has taken hold like an unexpected fashion wild fire. All and sundry, young and old, gay and straight have somehow managed to achieve the “impossible” by looking more masculine when carrying their man purse. It is in this European city that the man purse has been embraced and taken to higher heights with matching wallets to accompany their fabulous and expensive man purses.

Any dedicated Fashionista can try coming up with many reasons to explain this epidemic but an effortless yet acceptable reason for the surprising uptake of this trend is that in Paris the man purse is not distinguished just as a man purse, but simply as a purse.So therefore, it is not unusual to witness this magnificent fashion accessory walking down the Avenue Montaigne near the Champs-Elysées or Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. The man purse trend in Paris has even gone as far as one being able to sometimes catch sight of a Parisian couple strutting with their matching purses and looking like the epitome of fashion.

Now, with all this being said, the question is, are you ready to add this fabulous yet elusive trend to your wardrobe? Would you be able to hold your head up high and strut with your purse? I am not talking about the man friendly purses here; I am talking about the female friendly made for men purses. If you are, then let me enlighten you on the latest must have courtesy of Longchamp. This trendy yet classic label has enviable man bags starting from £320.

To find out more contact Katie Martin at Mary Lally Associates on +44 (0) 207 930 7300. For stockist information contact: +44 (0) 20 7493 5515.

Article featured in Fashion_Enter (www.fashion_enter.co.uk)

Enter the world of Wendy & Jim

2006-10-02T22:54:00.001+01:00

July 2006- Paris Mens FW SS 07

(ABOVE: Wendy and Jim's latest men's collection -‘NEW SHIT’ S/S 07)

Whilst attending Paris Men’s fashion Week 2006, I had the pleasure of glimpsing into the fashion brain of label Wendy & Jim, and I must say their latest men’s collection -‘NEW SHIT’ S/S 07 - did not disappoint.

Boasting thought provoking pieces; the show was able to achieve the sometimes impossible, delivering to its viewing audience a collection that was neither predictable nor uncomfortably unusual.Starting the show with music that could only be described as electro-pop, the audience hushed and fixated their eyes onto the catwalk, which was interestingly situated in an abandoned garage located at Le Garage Génie de la Bastille. Seated on wooden benches, sipping champagne and surrounded by quite an alternative yet interesting crowd, the show began.
Strutting onto the man made catwalk, the zombie like models perfectly pulled off the Wendy & Jim collection. Wearing pieces that can only be described as very metro sexual, the collection was certainly unafraid to be different. Think flawless cuts, faultless layering, monotonous colours complimented by the occasional aluminous insignia, and you are half way there.

Mainly boasting greys, blacks, and whites it was easy for even an untrained fashion eye to see that the designer’s had firmly put their individual stamp on their collection. It is this unafraid individuality that I predict would probably scare off the more fashion shy consumers. Why you might ask? Well not everyone can pull off a Wendy & Jim original, in my opinion. Yet saying that it seemed that half the audience attending the show were wearing Wendy & Jim and somehow managed to look Vogue-fab.

Last words: Well, Wendy & Jim is a label that has to be seen to be believed. Admittingly, its alternative style has definitely found its niche in the world of fashion, but what makes Wendy & Jim truly a label to be admired is that it seems to have no intention of embracing mainstream fashion. So it is on this note that I declare, reign on Wendy & Jim. Continue doing what you do best, making your very own mark on fashion and letting all know that Wendy & Jim is here to stay- indefinitely!

NOTE: ARTICLE FEATURED IN FASHION_ENTER (fashion_enter.co.uk)

Is London Brick Lane the new Fashion Chic?

2006-10-02T21:48:00.001+01:00

Brick Lane possesses that rare quality of being able to mingle age- old tradition (Jewish and Bengali Settlers) with new and stylish fancies. It is a diverse community, which has, and continues to play, an intricate part in Brick Lane’s fashionable rise up into the world of fashion.

Brick Lane fashion landmarks are two Rockit shops. The bigger of the two stock men and women's vintage and the other one only stocks women's wear that are more feminine and frilly and ideal for SJP wannabes. In between them, is The Laden Showroom, which sells young London designers along with a range of accessories. This place is a great for Celeb copycats because the entire clothes rail is a picture of a celebrity who owns that garment. Thus be on the lookout for Cat Deeley tops, Beckhams’ baseball caps and Kylie mini skirts.

The aptly titled Public Beware on Dray Walk sells collections by a team of Japanese Designers who make exclusive women's clothing and shoes. Once you enter, beware, as you will leave armed with the funkiest robes in town but also with a much lighter back pocket. Around the corner on Hanbury Street is Absolute Vintage, who among their wider range of clothing and accessories, stock over 1000 pairs of vintage shoes.

Let's not also forget the designer sample sales that take place in Brick Lane. The best being summer 2006 'Fashion Car Booty Sale'. It hosted an exhibition of artists work in converted cars alongside a sample sale consisting of Fashion East designers such as PPQ, Zakee Sharif and labels such as Jens Laugesen, Markus Lupfer, Blaak and House of Jazz.

For the more financially blessed, great shops are only a Prada purse throw away. These include Beyond Retro on Cheshire Street, a warehouse with the biggest stock of vintage fashion in the area and Max M's shop that sells designer sunglasses from the 80's alongside one-off designer pieces and jewellery. Max also has a warehouse around the corner, which sells only vintage clothing at affordable prices.

So is the new chic now Brick Lane instead of Bond Street? If you were to ask any dedicated Fashionista, they will tell you that they were already aware of Brick Lane's existence long before the fashion world came knocking and looking for the raw and individual talent that Brick Lane is now synonymous for.

ARTICLE FEATURED IN SOMA SOMA SCENE MAGAZINE

Who is the fabulous "Girl About..."?

2006-10-02T18:27:00.000+01:00

Introducing the Fabulous Girl About (Fashion)

Girl Abouts' Fashion career began whilst studying at University of Arts, part of London College of Fashion. It was while she was still an undergraduate that she was offered the opportunity to be a summer intern at Seventeen Magazine in New York City. It was in the city that never sleeps that GAF took her first baby steps into the world of fashion journalism.

From there Tatler followed. First assigned to Tatler’s Editorial Department, the budding fashion journalist found her self constantly drawn to the Fashion department were she was introduced to names such as Nina Ricci; Yves Saint Laurent; Alberta Ferreti; Kenneth Cole; Sonia Rykiel and Yohji Yamamoto. With a bold word in the Fashion Editor’s ear, she soon left Editorial for Fashion.

That following summer, after putting in 6 months hard work at Tatler, the scholar found herself back in New York working at a well known Manhattan society rag covering glamorous and glitzy openings, shows, and premieres.

Back in London, and straight out of university a job was offered as Editor Assistant at a magazine that specialises in producing informative journals on beauty and fashion. It is here that the graduate first really cut her teeth in the world of glossy magazines. She perfected her skills in writing editorials, organising magazine layouts, dealing with PR companies, selecting what needed to go in each issue and reporting to the E.I.C.

Once she perfected the ins and out of how a glossy magazine runs she took the position of fashion journalist for a new trend-setting magazine that concentrates mainly on undiscovered upcoming talent in the fashion, arts and music scene. Given free reign to enjoy flexing her talent she was soon promoted to Fashion Editor of Soma Soma.

Now the once London based freelance fashion journalist whose experience stretches across the Atlantic to New York city has found herself working, living and gaining exposure in Paris were she continues to build her portfolio.

Testimonials:

"Great working with you; we are particularly impressed with the detail you provide within your articles and feedback from our members confirm that you are articles are excellently received. "

Jenny Holloway, EIC of Fashion_Enter (www.fashion_enter.co.uk)