carina100

Elizabeth Olsen covers ASOS Magazine

2012-01-30T23:09:00.001Z

Make way teeny tiny Olsen twins, your little (but much taller) sister Elizabeth is everyone's new favourite fashion crush. Acting new-comer Elizabeth Olsen is getting just as many accolades for her style as she is her acting skills. And this hippy/beatnik editorial and cover from asos magazine is just dreamy. I love the slightly 90s feel of Mexican folk stripes and embellishment used throughout the shoot. The yellow pompoms on the cut-off shorts and sequin floral jumpers are definitely doing on my love-want-need list.

Cx

Images: asos and fashiongonerogue.com

Vote for Carina100 in the Company Style Blogger Awards 2012 (pretty please!)

2012-01-26T09:00:00.000Z

Morning! I've been nominated for a couple awards at the Company Magazine Style Blogger Awards 2012 and would really love if you'd vote for Carina100.com (you may have noticed the subtle button to the right!). I'm up for 3 awards 'Best Blog For High Street Lovers', 'Blog with the Best Street Style' and 'Overall Winner: The Blog You Love The Most'. So if you like my little blog I'd really appreciate your vote.

You can vote as many times as you'd like (nudge nudge, wink wink!) and if you enter your email address as well you'll be entered to win £250 to spend at New Look!

Cx

Carina Covets Couture - Giambattista Valli Spring 2012

2012-01-24T21:36:00.001Z

I always get excited when Couture Fashion Week rolls around, and if the start of the spring 2012 couture shows are anything to go by, this week is going to be awesome. The first catwalk show that I've fallen for is the Giambattista Valli collection. If we don't see some of these drop-dead-gorgeous gowns at the Oscars this year I'll eat my new Mulberry bag. I can't remember the last time we saw such a red carpet ready collection.

Staring with pretty pastels and elegant creams, the beautiful and delicate collections moves to show stopping dramatic black and raspberries and berry shades. Mix in oversized embellishment and sheer layers and you have one hell of a couture collection.

Cx

Images: Style.com

Zooey Deschanel Golden Globes 2012: Hair, Make-up and Nails

2012-01-23T12:53:00.000Z

I think that by now we all know I have a slight girl crush on Miss Zooey Deschanel, and while I liked her gorgeous, green and black beaded Prada dress at the Golden Globes, I LOVED her 60s style bouffant hair, feline flick make-up and cute as a button tuxedo nails.

Framing her famous baby-blues with her trademark heavy fringe and a sleek back-combed long bob, all the focus is on her peepers. I really love this polished-yet-retro look for the red carpet and my girl crush isn't going anywhere.

Pass the nail art please, I want my nails to suit up!

Cx

2012 Golden Globes Red Carpet: Best Dressed

2012-01-16T20:11:00.002Z

No one really set my world alight at the 2012 Golden Globes red carpet. Last year was stellar with Anne Hathaway, Angelina Jolie and Eva Longoria owning the 2011 carpet. While there were some a-maz-ing dresses, some weren't quite right on the people wearing them. For example Elle MacPherson and Sofía Vergara were wearing truly amazing, strapless fishtail dresses, but the dresses left them both looking a bit gaunt and weren't showed off to their full bombshell capabilities.

Having said that, I really loved these ladies and their looks on the red carpet. Charlize Theron looked flapper candy-sweet in her girly Christian Dior dress, while Emma Stone went to the (luxe) dark side with one of her staple designers, Lanvin, and a heavy belt. And speaking of Emma Stone, Heidi Klum must really dig Emma's style as she COMPLETELY ripped off Emma's 2011 Golden Globe Calvin Klein look (have a butchers). As you know, Lea Michele always get my vote and her gunmetal-shimmer Marchesa dress was just plain awesome. Salma Hayek deserves to be on the best dressed list for channelling Elizabeth Taylor like her life depended on it and, last but not least, pretty, pretty Zooey Deschanel in Prada because I'm biased and her hair was soooo shiny.

Who was your best dressed at the 2012 Golden Globes?

Cx

Birthday Present Wishlist

2012-01-14T08:30:00.079Z

Don't ask me how it's birthday time already (can it really be a year since my last birthday?!), but as is now tradition, here is my birthday present wishlist. Oddly, it contains a lot of the same things as last year birthday wishlist. Some present are for real, some are much more the things dreams are made of, but all of them are pretty.

A trip to New York. This. Would. Be. Awesome!

Michael Kors watches still get my vote, and I love these styles from Time2. Is it greedy to ask for both?!

I love these dresses from asos. The ASOS Collar Dress with Scallop Detail is so cute and this River Island Spot Mesh Body Con Dress has 'birthday party' written all over it.

They made my top 10 sale picks list last week, and now they're making my birthday list. I love these Mysuelly bags from My-Wardrobe.com.

There's nothing quite like sleek, black, 20s style packaging and both Tom Ford Black Orchid Perfume and Illamasqua Heart Throb set tick all the style (and substance) boxes.

Last but not least, a kitten (or all 4!).

The Beach Tomato Shack

2012-01-12T08:30:00.051Z

If you're anything like me you've already started dreaming about your summer holidays now that the Christmas and New Year celebrations are done and dusted. So a welcome distraction and source of daydreaming comes in the form of The Beach Tomato Shack - a new site dedicated to all your beach wardrobe needs, all year round, from the very clever people behind holiday sites Black Tomato and Beach Tomato.

BeachTomato.com unveils a one stop shop for all your holiday wardrobe requirements, with the launch of their new e-commerce website, The Beach Tomato Shack.

Having launched in March 2011, Beach Tomato combines the best in inspiring beach editorial content with innovative technology and captivating imagery.

As a natural extension to the offering, The Beach Tomato Shack (The Shack) will now retail the very best of luxury beachwear, dressing both men and women for their stylish travels. From chic footwear to statement dresses, swimwear and sunglasses, the site will encompass all your holiday needs for a stylish stay in the sun. The Shack is the new home to the world’s coolest beach brands, hand-picked from the newest need-to-know designers and the classics we love.

"Beach Tomato has offered the perfect mixture of travel, fashion and beauty, and now with The Shack we’re delighted to engage our readers further offering every style-conscious customer exactly what they want – access to exciting brands from wherever you are in the world.” Kirsty Hathaway, Editor-in-Chief, Beach Tomato.

Shop The Beach Tomato Shack here. Now all I need is an awesome holiday to wear a new awesome bikini. Any suggestions?

Cx

Oh I do like to be beside the seaside ... with Mulberry

2012-01-09T19:25:00.001Z

Brighton rocks. Mulberry rocks. So imagine my joy when I saw the spring summer 2012 Mulberry campaign. What more could you want from a glossy ad than giant sticks of rock, Brighton pier and beautiful Mulberry bags, shoes and clothes.

And here's my new Mulberry buddy that I adopted at Christmas (thanks to My-wardrobe.com and my lovely boyfriend!)

Cx

Images: Mulberry and Tim Walker

Rooney Mara 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' Red Carpet Style

2012-01-08T09:20:00.001Z

Last month I posted about my new red carpet celeb crush, Rooney Mara (and her oh-so-pretty Givenchy Couture dress), but she's since had so many style home-runs on 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' premiere tour that I thought I'd share some of her best looks.

Always I little bit fetish/gothic and almost always black, Rooney's style is ever-changing and adaptable. She successfully transforms her look with her hair and make-up, her hairdresser especially deserves top marks for their skill with her fringe (now you see it, now you don't!).

I've really been loving Rooney's red carpet style, from ethereal Givenchy to slightly prim Louis Vuitton, and cannot wait to see what she wears to the Golden Globes and the Oscars, you just know it's going to be good.

Who's your red carpet celeb crush at the moment?

Cx

My Top 10 Sale Picks

2012-01-03T11:02:00.001Z

I can't get enough of the sales this year, and there are still amazing bargains to be found. But looking through 1,000s of items takes time and patience, so I've done the leg work for you and picked my top 10 sale gems out from the dull and dreary sale tat.

The warehouse.co.uk sale is awesome, and I, of course, especially love their dresses. This Miu Miu style bird print dress is vintage perfection and the lace and pleat teal dress is a great homage to Christopher Kane.

For accessories is has to be the Net-a-porter sale. I 'heart' this cute as a button Alex Monroe ring and this stunningly cluttered Dolce & Gabbana key charm bracelet.

For amazing bags with huge discounts nowhere beats My-Wardrobe.com, my favourite are these Mysuelly beauties.

There are 1,000s of shoes and boots in the asos.com sale, but these bottle green shoes and sleek black aldo boots are my faves.

If you're after something a bit more luxe, the matches sale is fantastic. I've fallen in love with this slinky Issa blue dress and this gorgeous peach chiffon Beyond Retro dress.

Cx

Happy New Year - Welcome to 2012

2012-01-01T11:00:00.002Z

Welcome to 2012 - let's make 2012 as good as 2011. Here's a little message from me (well Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt!).

Cx

The Best Dressed Of 2011: Red Carpet Rundown

2011-12-30T11:53:00.001Z

I'm a red carpet addict. I love seeing all the amazing looks and dresses from events around the world on some of the most stylish and beautiful women. I've looked through all my posts from 2011 and have picked my favourite red carpet looks (and one royal wedding!). Who was your best dressed of 2011?

Emma Stone at the Golden Globes in Calvin Klein

Angelina Jolie at the Golden Globes in Atelier Versace

Sandra Bullock at the Oscars in Vera Wang

Rachel McAdams at Cannes Film Festival

Rooney Mara at The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo premiere in Givenchy Couture

Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress by Sarah Burton for McQueen

The Best Online Sales 2011

2011-12-27T00:49:00.000Z

Why venture out into the cold and battle the crazy crowds when you can stay in your pjs and shop online?! The best discounts can often be found online and nothing beats grabbing a bargain between courses of a festive meal. These are some of my favourite sales:

My-wardrobe - Up to 50% off (and enter CHRISTMASEXTRA for an extra 10% off!)

Net-a-porter - Up to 50% off

Matches - Up to 50% off

Harvey Nichols - Up to 50% off

Selfridges - Big discounts on classic, investment pieces

asos - Up to 50% off

Very.co.uk - Up to 70% off

New Look - Shoes from £4

River Island - Up to 50% off

Mango - Up to 50% off

H&M - Items from £0.99

Topshop - Over 1,000 items in the sale

Debenhams - up to 70% off

Happy shopping - let me know what you get!

Have a very Merry Christmas ...

2011-12-25T10:00:00.003Z

... eat, drink and be merry! Hope you all have an amazing day with family and friends. This is my first year hosting Christmas at our house - so please wish me luck.

Cx

Perfect Party Styles from Bank

2011-12-16T21:02:00.000Z

Tis the season to dress up and party, so if you're like me you're in a constant dilemma as to what to wear each day (and more importantly that night). I've got Christmas drinks, parties and events every night until Christmas - and boy - that's a lot of outfits to plan.

As most people have to go straight out after work (me included), you need an outfit that works all day and all night. I always find this really tricky to get right, and as everyone seems to up their style game during the holiday season, it's rubbish if you feel a bit under dressed.

I've headed to BANK to pull together some great outfit ideas to get you through the Christmas season. Separates are always a great way to mix up your style, and you can always swap your top to something more 'festive' before going out. There's a huge selection of women’s tops online at Bank, from blouses that will look great at your desk or on the dance floor to tops with plenty of sparkle. Team these with a great skirt or jeans from Bank and you're on to a winner.

This lace pencil skirt and pussy bow blouse have a vampy secretary feel, but if you think this look is a bit OTT for the office, try teaming the blouse with jeans during the day and switch to the lace pencil skirt after hours.

Sheer shirts and blouses are great for day to night outfits, as you can add a cami for the day and, if you're feeling brave, whip it off and showcase a statement bra. Teamed with a nude maxi skirt, this polka dot shirt would look great knotted at the waist.

These dark green coloured jeans are great for casual or dressy occasions and, just team them with some animal print, like this leopard print top, to add some attitude to your look.

Cx

*This post is in partnership with Bank, but all content is mine and all product has been chosen by me (cause I like it!)*

Rooney Mara in Givenchy Couture Fall 2011 at 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' UK Premiere

2011-12-12T22:03:00.000Z

Anyone who wears Givenchy Couture on the red carpet usually gets my vote (just ask Liv Tyler or Cate Blanchett), but relative red carpet newbie, Rooney Mara, gets two thumbs up in this stunning white Givenchy Couture Fall 2011 dress at the 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' London Premiere .

The ethereal collection is juxtaposed with her badass movie persona, translucent skin and raven hair, creating a beautiful style clash on the red carpet. If this is how she starts the movie tour for 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' I can't wait to see what's next. But how do you top Givenchy?!

The Best Of This Week's Red Carpet Looks: Sherlock Holmes 2 And New Years Eve Premieres

2011-12-07T22:41:00.001Z

There have been some great red carpet looks this week, especially from movie premieres, and it's great to see some glitz and glamour to get us in the mood frivolous festivities. Some of my favourite red carpet ladies were looking great, like Lea Michele who looked beautiful at the premiere for New Years Eve in Valentino, when you could prise her away for the slightly sleazy Ashton Kutcher that is. Rachel McAdams also looked amazing in a silvery Marchesa dress with a cowl back. Metalics always have and always will work perfectly at this time of year. Doing it like a dude, Amber Heard channelled Katherine Hepburn for her chic and oh-so-stylish outfit.

Who did you think was best dressed this week?

Cx

New Look Spring Summer 2012 Press Day: Candy Colours and 90s Grunge

2011-12-01T08:00:00.001Z

New Look press days never disappoint, and their spring summer 2012 press day was no exception. Even though we're only just in December (pinch, punch, first of the month and no returns to me, FYI) I think I'm well and truly in the spring summer 2012 mindset. I'm dreaming of candy colours, Miu Miu-esque blouses and dresses, ladylike accessories and a great big dollop of 90s styling.

I loved many, many items at the New Look press day, but these candy colour Mary Janes are too cute for words. It's plain to see that retro shows like Mad Men and Pan Am are filtering down onto our highstreet and shaping the look of spring summer, even the Kelly Brook underwear collection was heavily inspired by 60s styles and shapes. I also, as always, loved the 90s style that was very apparent in the grunge pieces and Brit Pop styling.

2011 American Music Awards Best Dressed - Nicki Minaj, Selena Gomez and Jennifer Lopez

2011-11-26T09:50:00.001Z

I might be a bit late for commenting on the best of the red carpet at the 2011 American Music Awards, but I was so impressed with Nicki Minaj, Selena Gomez and Jennifer Lopez that I just had to post about it.

American Music Awards 2011 Nicki Minaj in Oscar de la Renta

I'm not always a fan of Nicki Minaj on the red carpet, but I love the drama and grandeur she displays in this stunning Oscar de la Renta gown. The rich, jewel colours of the dress clash perfectly with her candy floss pink hair and her fetish inspired McQueen shoes add a nice twist.

American Music Awards 2011 Selena Gomez in Giorgio Armani

Selena Gomez is trying to show she's more than Disney and can be glamorous and elegant, and this liquid satin 1920s inspired Giorgio Armani is doing just that. The dress is beautiful, but I LOVE the tasselled sash at the waist. It has that beautiful 'The Great Gatsby', opulent quality too it (there'll be lots more of this flapper style to come on the red carpet with the release of 'The Great Gatsby' in 2012!).

American Music Awards 2011 Jennifer Lopez in Zuhair Murad

Jennifer Lopez looked amazing on the red carpet at the AMAs, her lace Zuhair Murad dress is totally stunning. Not many people can pull off a polo neck on the red carpet (!) but Jennifer seems to be doing it. The side split wasn't my favourite aspect, but I love the fish-tail skirt and the delicacy of the fabric.

Cx

Versace for H&M 2012 Collection Confirmed

2011-11-24T22:19:00.000Z

I wasn't going to do a post on the London launch of Versace for H&M, but seen as there's now going to be another Versace for H&M collection as soon as January 2012 it seemed rude not to. So here's a look at the mass-hysteria as one of H&M's most anticipated collaborations hit London (with a special appearance on the pink carpet from Donatella herself!)

I first posted about the Versace for H&M collection back in October when the fantastic lookbook images came out, and was instantly taken with the amazing, 90s-stylee, print-tastic collection. More Gianni Versace than Donatella, the collection was actually really impressive in real life, with great fabrics, beautiful finishes and amazing prints.

You can still shop a few pieces from the current collection online and in-store. I've been so impressed I'm actually excited to see what January 2012 brings!
Cx

F&F Spring/Summer 2012 Collection Preview

2011-11-20T19:41:00.000Z

On Tuesday night my friend and I were lucky enough to go to the F&F Spring/Summer 2012 preview at the OXO Tower. After navigating our way on the Southbank Thames Path on a very chilly evening, we made it to the OXO Tower second floor and took in the *huge* F&F collection on display.

On arrival, we were given brown hearts and told to write our blog name on them and hang the heart on the item in the new collection that we covet the most. I tried (I really did) to go for an item that wasn't my usual style, but I failed miserably and had to hang my heart on the striped pencil skirt. Here are some of my favourite pieces from the night.

Fashion Capital Profile Fashion Event Spring/Summer 12

2011-11-16T12:09:00.000Z

On Thursday night I attended the Fashion Capital Profile fashion show 2011 at One Marylebone, showcasing some of the UK’s most exciting new design talent. Displaying their work and showing on the catwalk, 20 designers showed ladies, men’s and accessories from their S/S 12 collections to press and buyers.

Vjera Vilicnik

I also had a special guest with me for the evening, my gorgeous mum (who is an avid reader of Carina100, so I know she's reading this!). We had a great time and have both fallen for the luxurious and glamorous designs of Vjera Vilicnik. Her racing green evening gown was out of this world, and so were her ultra-glam satin trench coats. I was also a big fan of Torres and their bold, colour block, body-con dresses.

Christina Dami

There was a lot of talent on show, and it's such a great idea to have an event to showcase new and emerging talent outside of London Fashion Week or Graduate Fashion Week. These are some of my favourite outfits and pictures from the night.

Afromania

Anar

Christina Dami

Kelly Love

Torres

Lauren Goodger clothing collection Lauren's Way

Rachel Antonio

Torres

Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston - Screening at One Aldwych

2011-11-12T12:42:00.000Z

"He was everything the 70s was"

I was so happy to be invited to a Handpicked Media exclusive screening at the beautiful One Aldwych hotel last week. The reason I was so excited was that we were watching 'Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston', a documentary about the extraordinary life and career of the 70s most prominent and infamous designer, Halston. I've long proclaimed my love of the ultra glamorous designer and his work, and after a resurgence lead by Sarah Jessica Parker in the last few years, a new generation are learning about the amazing legend that is Halston.

The documentary includes some in-depth and entertaining interviews about Halston, his empire, his social life and time at Studio 54, all with people that knew him well, including life-long friend Liza Minnelli, his most famous 'Halstonette' models, including Anjelica Huston, and industry experts, like Diane von Furstenburg.

No one represented the glamour, style and excess of the 70's quite like legendary designer Halston and in this new documentary, Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston, filmmaker Whitney Sudler -Smith takes us on a fabulous fun-and-fact filled journey through his life and times.

Halston was also emperor of another world, namely New York City nightlife, and the fabled Studio 54 was where he held court, surrounding himself with the likes of Andy Warhol, Liza Minnelli and Truman Capote. Every night was a party, full of dancing, drinking and drugging.

Ultrasuede combines archival footage and an array of interviews with various witnesses and survivors of Halston's empire including, his best friend Liza Minnelli, two of his leading models, Anjelica Huston and Pat Cleveland; fellow designers Dianne von Furstenberg, Stephen Burrows, Naeem Khan and Ralph Rucci; musicians Billy Joel and Nile Rogers (both of whom used "Halston" as a lyric in hit songs); journalists Bob Colacello and Glenn O'Brien (of Andy Warhol's Interview), Jim Moore of GQ, Cathy Horyn of the New York Times, Amy Fine Collins of Vanity Fair, and Andre Leon Talley of Vogue, among others.

Thanks again Handpicked Media and One Aldwych. This documentary is a must for any fashion fan and the gorgeous and luxurious One Aldwych hotel is most definitely worth a visit.

Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston is out in the UK on DVD now.

Cx

TASK PR Spring Summer Press Day

2011-11-08T15:35:00.000Z

Last week I headed to The Gallery Soho after work to go to the TASK PR press day, and I'm so glad I did! I haven't been able to make it to as many press days as I would have liked this season (due to my new job and flat and generally being a busy bee), but I haven't been to such a well laid out, beautifully merchandised press day in such a long time, and every single collection and brand leapt out at me.

Showing their Spring/ Summer 2012 collections were Marc Cain, Thomas Sabo, ASH, Bourne, J shoes, Kirk Originals, Joseph Ribkoff, Beg Borrow or Steal , Inbar Spector and Muiree. I am now *obsessed* with the fringed Bourne shoes, the oh-so-cool glittery Kirk Original glasses and everything from Inbar Spector's intricate, laser cut, leather and concertinaed collection.

But I won't ramble too much, and I'll let the photos do the talking. Congratulations on a great press day, TASK PR!

Star in the next L’Oréal Paris Casting Crème Gloss Advert with Cheryl Cole

2011-11-03T08:30:00.002Z

I'm a bit of a hair colour addict, and some of my most popular posts on the blog have been about hair and hair colour. My 'Red Hair' post has had almost 20,000 people read it and my Candy Colour Hair inspired post about the huge trend for multi-coloured hair this season has got you telling me how much you love to experiment with your hair. So to bring you even more hair and colour news, here's a great competition which could see you as the face (and hair) of Casting Crème Gloss with Cheryl Cole.

L’Oréal Paris is looking for women to star in the next Casting Crème Gloss advert alongside spokesmodel and hair chameleon, Cheryl Cole. From 31 October to 27th November, fans and users of Casting Crème Gloss will be able to 'cast themselves' in the role of either: deep brunette to black, fiery redhead or honey blonde.

To enter this fab competition visit the L’Oréal Paris UK Facebook page and click 'Cast Yourself' and follow the steps to enter and upload a picture and try to get as many votes as possible between 28th November to 4th December 2011.

The most popular brunettes, redheads and blondes will be shortlisted for the L’Oréal Paris Casting Day where contestants will receive a makeover for a live audition in front of judges. You'll even get to utter those 4 famous words, "Because you're worth it!'

The winners will then be chosen to appear in an exclusive new L’Oréal Paris advert alongside Cheryl Cole.

Open to female UK and ROI residents aged 16+. Entrants must register with L’Oréal Insider, colour their hair using Casting Crème Gloss and upload a photo on facebook. No purchase necessary. Closing date 27/11/2011. For full Terms & Conditions click here.

*This is a sponsored post. I've included it as I think it's a great competition and I have used and like L’Oréal Casting Creme Gloss.*

Mulberry Lily - Just Add Gems

2011-11-01T22:35:00.000Z

If there was ever a bag that said '90s party wear', this would be it. Therefore I'm unnaturally besotted with it. The Mulberry Lily with Gems is all kinds of awesome. From the nightshade blue suede, to the adjustable chain strap, to the multi-coloured gems, this bag is born to dance the night away on a light-up dance floor (and I think I was born to own it!).

Cx

The Cashmere Challenge - Boden Roll Neck

2011-10-25T21:02:00.000+01:00

I love a good challenge, so when VoucherCodes.co.uk contacted me and asked me to be part of their 'Most Wanted Seasonal Staples series – The Cashmere Challenge', how could I say no!? The idea of this series is to focus on smarter spending and finding classic wardrobe staples from the high street.

I picked a 100% cashmere roll neck from Boden (which may or may not have been influenced by Beyonce's beatnik turn in her Countdown video!) and set about trying and testing my highstreet cashmere. On first impressions, I was really happy with the tissue paper wrapping, my free notebook gift and the uber soft cashmere jumper.

The jumper fitted really well (I went a size smaller than usual for a slightly snugger fit) and feels lovely on. I was wary of breaking the rule that girls with big boobs can't do high necks or roll necks, but I felt egged on by how good Beyonce looked in hers.

The jumper may be on the pricey side (it's £99), but it is a lovely quality, and it seems better than some other highstreet cashmere knitwear I've tried before. If you're thinking about investing in a wardrobe staple, this would be it!

See all the latest codes and offers for Boden at VoucherCodes.co.uk.

For details about the rest of my outfit, check out this previous outfit post.

Cx

Versace for H&M

2011-10-22T09:00:00.017+01:00

Versace for H&M launch 2011

Who can resist the 90s pull of a Versace print? Not me, that's for damn sure. I'm also slightly obsessed with (and in awe of) the H&M designer collaborations. We've had Jimmy Choo for H&M, we've had Lanvin for H&M (my personal favourite) as well as the many other designer/highstreet collaborations, and it's becoming a monthly occurrence. But on the 17th November we get the amazing Versace for H&M collection. It's brash, it's in your face, it's loud ... and I love it!

Versace for H&M black dress 2011

Versace for H&M launch 2011 pink suit

Versace for H&M launch 2011 gold dress

Versace for H&M launch 2011 palm tree print

I told you the 90s were making a comeback...

If you're really obsessed with the Versace for H&M collection, you can play their Polyvore game to create the perfect glam party look. Winners are picked by Donatella herself *of course* and 10 winners a day will receive a exclusive scarf.

Cx

Images: H&M - shot by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott and featuring Sasha Pivovarova, Lindsey Wixson, Daphne Groeneveld and Abbey Lee Kershaw.

Kiehl’s, Shu Uemura and Biotherm - L’Oreal Luxury Alternative Brands Event

2011-10-19T08:30:00.003+01:00

Sorry I've been a bit MIA for the this week. I've just started a new job and the first few weeks have been busy (understatement)! But here's a catch up of what I was up to last week. I went to a beauty event with Handpicked Media for L’Oreal Luxury Alternative Brands - Kiehl’s, Shu Uemura and Biotherm on Thursday night. Held in the beautiful venue, Vanilla London, a beautiful vanilla coloured, scented and named bar, the 3 brands each had their own section to showcase the newest and best of their ranges.

The make up and eyelash Shu Uemura station was my first stop (what can I say, I'm a sucker for false eyelashes!) and they had a surprisingly huge selection of make up as well as false eyelashes. I loved their colourful eye palettes and party eyelashes.

Everyone was talking about the Kiehl's new Rosa Arctica face cream, which is meant to 'recharge cells and jolt skin's youth'. Derived from plant extract (the Haberlea Rhodopensis to be precise), this fresh cream smells and feels amazing.

I loved the Biotherm girls and there cool gadgets that check the hydration, elasticity and oil levels of your skin. FYI, my skin was dehydrated, normal in terms of oiliness and very high elasticity levels (I'm told this is very good!). I've never tried Biotherm before, but after trying some of their products from the goody bag, I'm hooked!

Beyonce goes beatnik in 'Countdown' video

2011-10-09T19:21:00.001+01:00

Beyonce Countdown video 60s beatnik style

I've had so many people come to the blog because they're searching for Beyonce's new 'Countdown' video this week (and finding my post about Beyonce's 'Video Phone' video), that I figured I should probably actually do a post about her new video, 'Countdown'. So here it is!

Taking on a 60s beatnik dance school vibe and with Beyonce showcasing her neat little baby bump, the video is slick and has a cool art house look.I love everything from the minimalist all black dance leotard and flat pumps to the modern yet retro beehive and 60s inspired make-up. This video feels very 'Beyonce', with unique and catchy dance routines, jazzed up graphics, a pin-up theme and great pops of colour against a monochromatic theme.

I know I shouldn't be considering this (it's normally a big boobs taboo) but I'm seriously lusting after Beyonce's chic 1960s Audrey Hepburn-esque black turtle neck look. Such a classic, simple look and Beyonce does it so well.

Beyonce Countdown video 60s beatnik style baby bump

Beyonce Countdown video 60s beatnik style

Cx

Images and video: Beyoncé and Sony Music Entertainment

Paris Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012 - Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton and Lanvin

2011-10-06T20:42:00.000+01:00

Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012 seems to be never ending, and as it comes to the final leg in Paris this week, I've fallen head over coral-encrusted heels (as seen at Alexander McQueen) for three collection: Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton and Lanvin.

While I loved several shows at London Fashion Week SS 12 (see my LFW SS12 coverage here), and New York and Milan had some beautiful shows too, it's Paris that has wooed me. Alexander McQueen's collection, by the increasingly genius Sarah Burton, was a truly spectacular collection. With embroidered lace gimp masks, ruffs and ruffles, the decadently dramatic designs are toughened up with metal harnesses and exposed metal corsetry. This collection had me hooked from the first to the last look on the catwalk.

The Kate Moss circus took place again at Louis Vuitton (she worked everyone into a frenzy last season when she walked the catwalk for the first time in years for her BBF Marc Jacobs and his Louis Vuitton show), but as more people expected her to walk this season, the focus was (thankfully) back on the clothes. The fresh, ice-cream and sorbet palette worked so well with the babydoll 60s shapes, essex girl white stilettos and doily-esque fabric. This collection was unashamedly cutesy and I love it.

While some of Lanvin's collection left me unmoved, the demure-yet-sexy sheer chiffon dresses really caught my attention. In stunning colours, including mink, duck egg and khaki, the barely there skirt was beautifully balanced with the more opaque, broad, gathered neckline and shoulder details.

Très Bien, Paris!

Cx

Images: Style.com

London Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012 - Unconditional, Christina Sabaiduc, Jasper Garvida and Ziad Ghanem

2011-10-03T19:08:00.000+01:00

Some of you may remember my awesome London Fashion Week helper, Emily, from last season (check out her LFW handy work here). And she's come to my rescue again and made sure 'Carina100' could attend all the fabulous LFW shows I was invited to. Here's her review of the Unconditional, Christina Sabaiduc, Jasper Garvida and Ziad Ghanem London Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012 shows.

Whilst Carina has been away getting her tan on (jealous!) I have been attempting to fill her shoes and have had the amazing opportunity to go to some great shows, on her behalf.

First stop was Unconditional, loving the brights and pastels, I think that we can all agree that harnesses are going to be big…

Prime spot at Christina Sabaiduc's, really interesting multiway garments with a live demo.

Loving the über studs at Jasper Garvida, there was a black tuxedo jacket with gold pockets that was to die for! The audience went mad for the silver studded shift dress with 3D pockets.

The piece-de-resistance was Ziad Ghanem with his fetish wedding collection (hinting at Galliano). The show stoppers were a sheer structured white dress with ruffles, and of course I'll be asking Ziad to design my bridesmaid dresses (and bridesmaids!)

Thanks for all your help again, Emily! See you next season!

Cx

Words and Images: Emily Shackleton

Sunshine and cocktails

2011-09-21T10:00:00.000+01:00

As you read this, I'm sunning myself on a beach on a tiny Greek Island and I'll be away for a little over a week. Instead of doing any scheduled posts, I thought you'd have enough to read with all the fantastic fashion week coverage from London, Milan and Paris, so the blog will be a bit quiet for a while - but I'll be back!

This is my first and only holiday in 2011, and those that know me realise what a challenge it's been to wait this long for a holiday. I'm a holiday junkie and after a mammoth tour of North America last September I've been itching for a chilled out beach holiday. Here are some of my old holiday snaps that I've been reminiscing over while I counted down the days to this holiday (ok, hours!).

Enjoy all the fashion weeks and I'll be back soon!

Cx

London Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012 - Live Stream

2011-09-18T16:37:00.001+01:00

New York Fashion Week has come to a close and that means one thing, it's time for a jump across the pond to London Fashion Week SS12! Today is the first day of London Fashion Week and with that comes a gaggle of fabulously (and sometimes outrageously) dressed fashion folk taking over Somerset House and The Strand.

If your invites are still yet to appear *ahem*, make sure you don't miss a thing and watch the best London Fashion Week shows live right here.

Here's the digital London Fashion Week Live streaming schedule - enjoy!

Friday 16th September

09:00 Paul Costelloe
11:00 Caroline Charles
13:00 Bora Aksu
15:00 Jean-Pierre Braganza
17:00 Felder Felder
19:00 Ann-Sofie Back Atelje / BACK
20:30 PPQ

Saturday 17th September

09:00 Daks
11:00 Ashish
13:00 Jasper Conran
15:00 Jaeger London
17:00 John Rocha
20:00 Issa London

Sunday 18th September

14:00 Holly Fulton
15:00 Topshop Unique
16:00 Marios Schwab

Monday 19th September

09:00 Peter Pilotto
13:00 Michael van der Ham
15:00 Mark Fast
16:00 Burberry Prorsum
17:30 Louise Gray
18:30 Todd Lynn

Tuesday 20th September

09:00 Mary Katrantzou
12:00 Osman
14:00 Meadham Kirchhoff
16:00 David Koma
17:00 Danielle Scutt
18:30 Aminaka Wilmont

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London Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012

2011-09-18T15:39:00.000+01:00

My picture diary of London Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012 so far. I didn't get to go to as many shows as I would have liked this season due to work and holiday (!), but I've been keeping up to date with all the on season shows via the London Fashion Week Live Stream on the blog and have really loved some of the shows. A British Seaside, sunflowers and colourful Spring Summer 2012 awaits us! What's been your highlight of LFW so far?

Alchemy: Art At Annoushka

2011-09-16T10:00:00.000+01:00

Thursday nights should always be about hanging out in jewellery boutiques on the Kings Road, surrounded by diamonds, precious jewels, champagne and fabulous people! Luckily, that's exactly what my Thursday night this week was all about (well, throw in a beautiful art exhibition, Daisy Lowe, Amber Le Bon, Eliza Doolittle and Tom Hughes!). The Alchemy photographic exhibition by Rosie Emerson and Annoushka Ducas was launched in a star studded bash and will be displayed in store for a month to show jewellery in a new format. Gone are the glass cabinets, and in its place are works of images that show these jewellery works of art at their best.

Amber Le Bon, Daisy Lowe, Ophelia Lovibond and Eliza Doolittle will appear in Alchemy, a photography exhibition by Rosie Emerson. Displayed for a month, from 14 September, at Annoushka Ducas’s 41 Cadogan Gardens flagship boutique, Alchemy continues Art At Annoushka. The aim of this exhibition series is to integrate Annoushka’s fine jewellery into original artworks and project her designs beyond their traditional, rarefied milieu - namely, a glass case in a boutique or the jewellery box. This will highlight the guiding principles of artistry, spontaneity and collaboration which have informed Annoushka since it was established in 2009.

Daisy Lowe, Amber Le Bon and Eliza Doolittle (and Tom Huges) are all amazingly beautiful in real life. If I didn't have a major crush on Daisy beforehand, I do now! Apart from her obvious sex kitten qualities, her voice is exceptionally hot. No one should stand as close to Daisy Lowe as I did last night. It is not good for your self esteem.

All the artwork and featured jewellery is available to view and to buy at Annoushka.

Cx

New York Fashion Week Spring 2012 - Oscar de la Renta

2011-09-14T17:02:00.001+01:00

Oscar de la Renta New York Fashion Week Spring 2012

I've always loved Oscar de la Renta, and always will. I thought that Jason Wu's Spring 2012 collection had a touch of Oscar de la Renta to it, but the man himself has just delivered a fantastic New York Fashion Week collection.

The latest Oscar de la Renta collection is all the best bits of fashion: dramatic, fun, pretty and dreamily over the top. Jewel colours, tangy citruses and pure whites were mixed and matched with simple summer dresses and theatrical styled ball gowns. Mountains of frizzy hair and barely there make-up with the historical inspired gowns had a feeling of Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette. A true treat for any colour and pomp addicts.

Oscar de la Renta New York Fashion Week Spring 2012

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Images: Style.com

New York Fashion Week Spring 2012 - Preen

2011-09-13T16:44:00.001+01:00

Preen New York Fashion Week Spring 2011 - Pixelated

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Images: Style.com, Elmer the Elephant by David McKee and Kirsten Rickert

Head & Shoulders celebrates their 50th Birthday

2011-09-13T09:30:00.000+01:00

Head & Shoulders don't look a day over 38, but believe it or not they have just turned 50! A group of Handpicked Media bloggers went to the very lovely St Martins Lane Hotel last week to help them celebrate and get a master-class in the best hair styles from the last 50 years from their very charming creative director Peter Lux.

I was excited about this event, but when we went in and saw what can only be described as rows of Girl's World toys laid out for us I was beside myself! I teamed up with Ree from Really Ree, Lena from Style High Club and Danielle from Fashionitsa Barbie and we watched Peter work on a model and then we repeated each step on Janet (our slightly balding, greying Girl's World-esque head) to create first a Breakfast at Tiffany's Audrey Hepburn up-do, then Miu Miu-esque 1940s victory rolls.

You can learn how to create these classic styles with these great Peter Lux for Head & Shoulders videos. I will definitely be trying out 'The Audrey', such a classic and surprisingly simple.

A very fun event, and some amazing hair tips from Peter. Thanks to Head & Shoulders I now have a Girl's World on my Christmas list!

Cx

New York Fashion Week Spring 2012 - Jason Wu

2011-09-12T15:51:00.001+01:00

Jason Wu New York Fashion Week Spring 2012

The Spring 2012 Fashion Week season has begun (that came around faster than you can say "press accreditation"!), and New York Fashion Week is the first stop on the fashion tour. A selection of shows each season at NYFW tickle my sartorial fancy, for Fall 2011 (AW to us Brits) it was definitely Luca Luca, Donna Karan and The Row.

I've been trying to look through all the Spring 2012 brands that have shown so far, and a few are already standing out. Jason Wu is one of them. With a mix of 50s secretary-on-holiday meets 90s minimal-fashionista, the preppy knits, pussy bows, delicate petal prints, vibrant blues, neon yellows, baby pinks and elegant greys, mean this collection has a classic Oscar de la Renta feel.

Jason Wu New York Fashion Week Spring 2012

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Images: Style.com

Vogue Fashion's Night Out 2011 - London

2011-09-09T22:30:00.000+01:00

On Thursday night Vogue took over the highstreet and shopping centres across the world. Their now notorious event, Fashion's Night Out, is a night of shopping, fun and games designed to get the public having fun with brands and shopping (as well as donating to charity). I missed last years event as I was in the US on holiday (how has that been a year?!), so was determined to make the most of it this time.

Armed with my FNO Crew - Danielle from Fashionista Barbie, Alex from Alex Loves and Kate from Fabric of My Life we set off on our ambitious tour of shops all across London. Starting in Covent Garden's gorgeous Seven Dials area, we went to Tatty Devine and Poste Mistress, with both offering exclusive discounts for FNO, cocktails and prizes. Next stop was Agent Provocateur, where gorgeous male models were acting as (topless) paparazzi. Sadly we weren't able to take photos in there, but I did learn that their bras go up to an F cup - who knew!?

Next stop was Liberty, where we got beautiful orchid corsages, bumped into the ever-so-lovely Reena from Fashion Daydreams and then headed up to the Mahiki tiki bar, complete with the official Rob Ryan FNO 2011 tee, Aloha Leis, coconut rum, pineapple cocktails and tiki music (very chilled out). We then headed to Regent Street and went to Tommy Hilfiger which was oodles of fun. We got a beautiful notebook just by checking in at Tommy's on facebook, then we got to play dress up with all the Tommy Hilfiger and sport equipment we could handle and had a little photoshoot with the very lovely Jackie Dixon (can't wait to see how those pics came out - we looked like a crazy family of all American jocks!).

Next stop on the FNO tour was Thomas Lyte, a beautiful luxury goods brand in Burlington Arcade, where we were over the moon to have fashion illustrations done (posing with Thomas Lyte bags, natch!). We were so impressed with all our drawings I think they will be adorning our walls. Big thanks to Sasha Helim, who did my illustration - I love it! We also were taken upstairs for a exclusive peek at The Fold. A chic women's work wear label that had a gorgeous selection of tailored, feminine and elegant work wear. They will even come to your house for a private shopping evening with your friends - love!

FINALLY (while we were still standing) we went for a gentle stroll down Old Bond Street at 10pm. Or so we thought! Old Bond Street was packed - heaving with fashion fans, hipster kids and slightly confused tourists. We headed to the busiest party (which also had a NYC taxi parked outside) - DKNY. Stuffed full of people, cocktails and balloons, DKNY was really fun and I'm dying for the neon 'Cocktails' sign for my kitchen! DAKS had a hilarious 'living' window, with 4 models coming to life (Mannequin stylee!). Except for the male model in the red jumper, I'm pretty sure he actually was a mannequin. Alexander McQueen was so busy we couldn't get in the store, but they were giving away a key to everyone in the store with one lucky person having the key that would unlock a McQueen bag! To finish things off, we walked past Hermes with this horse van called 'Bangle Bowling' outside. No, I have no idea what that is either.

Did you make it out for FNO? What were your highlights?

Cx

Venice Film Festival 2011 - Best Dressed (Part 2)

2011-09-08T16:55:00.001+01:00

My love affair with the glamour of the Venice Film Festival continues, and after all my favourite red carpet moments from the beginning of the festival in my Part 1 post, here are the other beautiful red carpet looks and dresses that have been filling my dreams with couture and speed boats!

My favourites from this selection of Red Carpet Queens has to be Kate Winslet in Stella McCartney and Gwyneth Paltrow in Prada. I'm not normally a big fan of Stella McCartney, but I love all the pieces from the current collection that Miss Winslet has been wearing (especially the black polka dot dress).

That's your glamour fix for the afternoon. Who was your best dressed at the Venice Film Festival?

Cx

Images: Getty

Sunflowers, hearts and mustard yellow

2011-09-07T13:18:00.001+01:00

Don't those sunflowers just make you smile? These beauties are currently residing in my kitchen. Anyway, back to the point (in this case, my outfit post). I'm slowly getting used to doing outfit posts, and after such a great reaction from you lovely people, I will try and do a few more. Today's theme is all about yellow!

I'm loving the AW trend for mustard yellow, but being of the 'English Rose' variety (read: pale, very pale), I can't really wear it anywhere near my skin. That's where this great pencil skirt from asos comes in. With tights and a top, I get to wear this fun and bright colour without looking ever so slightly jaundice.

I'm really into mixing pencil skirts with a slightly grungy outfit, so as not to look too prim or secretarial. Teaming a pencil skirt with a baggy tee and shoe boots is one of my favourite pencil skirt outfit combos. To add a bit of cuteness to this look, I added in some Pamela Mann sheer heart ankle socks from MyTights.com (Fearne Cotton's a fan of them, too!). They kindly sent them to me to try, and I really love them. Although the hearts show up better against skin (see below), I love them layered over my black tights.

Black asos dipped hem cardigan

Wildfox amulet chain tee

Mustard asos pencil skirt

100 denier M&S tights

Pamela Mann sheer heart socks

Black stacked heel New Look shoes

Venice Film Festival 2011 - Best Dressed (Part 1)

2011-09-02T17:10:00.001+01:00

James D'Arcy, Andrea Riseborough, Madonna, Abbie Cornish, Oscar Isaac and Natalie Dormer at W.E. premiere at Venice Film Festival 2011

I always really love the Venice Film Festival. Not only is it a definite Bucket List destination of mine, but it reminds me of the Golden Era of cinema and true 'Movie Stars'. Everyone walking the red carpet or attending press events seems to sense this too, and really ups their style game. These are my favourite looks from the festival so far (I'm sure they'll be many, many more over the next few days).

Who is your best dressed so far? The W.E ensemble (Andrea Riseborough, Madonna, Abbie Cornish, and Natalie Dormer) are the winners for me, they all look amazing. They each stand out without looking to desperate to do so.

Cx

Images: Getty

Ryan Reynolds, Rosie Huntington-Whitely and David Gandy for M&S (seriously!)

2011-08-30T16:46:00.000+01:00

Ryan Reynolds, Rosie Huntington-Whitely and David Gandy for Marks & Spencer Autograph M&S

Never one to grumble about seeing more of the delectable Ryan Reynolds (dream man, loved him since Two Guys and a Girl), I was a bit shocked to read that he (and the pouty Rosie Huntington-Whitely) are the new faces of Marks & Spencer Autograph AW collection.

Set to be unveiled officially on the 1st September, Ryan and Rosie will be the faces of Autograph, and as M&S executive Steve Sharp so aptly put it, "beautiful, exclusive and absolutely contemporary". Having an A list movie star and a Victoria Secret Angel and Burberry model is a great achievement for a brand like M&S, and shows how seriously they are trying to reposition themselves in the current clothing market. Joining the beautiful pair is top male model David Gandy for the Collezione M&S sub-brand.

I don't think they could send a clearer "we're more than just pants and good food" message if they tried. But will it make you shop there?

Cx

Getting preppy with it

2011-08-26T11:38:00.000+01:00

After a fairly good (and very complimentary, *blushes*) response to my last (and first) proper outfit post, I decided to give it another go! Without the very helpful boyf photographer, I had only my camera's 10 second count down and my kitchen work top to work with.

One day this week I came over all preppy, and teamed my camel paper bag topped maxi skirt with a navy polo shirt and a grey jumper knotted 'jauntily' across my shoulders. To lift it up a bit, I added heavy gold jewellery, gold gladiator sandals and my favourite 17 power pink lipstick.

This maxi skirt is such a great piece, and I wear it with so many different style tops. It looks great with a long sleeved Breton tee, a mohair jumper or a really plain, bright tee (reverse Jil Sanders!).

Grey h&m jumper

Navy h&m polo shirt

New Look camel maxi skirt (with belt)

Gold New Look gladiator wedges (now £5!!!)

Michael Kors watch

Gold h&m necklace

Zoe Saldana in Balmain at Colombiana Screening

2011-08-23T15:03:00.001+01:00

I'm not the world biggest Balmain fan, and I've seen the trailer for Colombiana (not her finest, judging from the trailer), but I love this Balmain dress on Zoe Saldana.

Zoe often tops my own, humble 'Best Dressed' lists, I loved her at Cannes this year and at the 2010 Oscars, and I love how she always mixes up her style and isn't afraid of colour, print or daring cuts. This deep v, structured mini dress straight off the Balmain 2012 Resort catwalk clearly wasn't up to Miss Zoe's standards, and she added a delicate, yet dramatic white train. I actually thought for a second this dress may have been from the Givenchy Couture Fall 2011 collection (maybe that was the inspiration). I love all the embellishment on the dress, but wished she'd kept up the 'gilded' look with metalic shoes, not slightly dull, strappy, black sandals.

Cx

Images: Getty

Minnie Mouse Magic with Mawi and Disney Couture

2011-08-19T16:24:00.001+01:00

MBDJAGK3Q3TP

I've spent an inordinate amount to time staring at this amazingly cute necklace from the new Mawi and Disney Couture Jewellery Collection based on everyone's favourite mouse, Minnie.

Each piece is complete with the trademark ears and in a very 'now' monochrome and gold style. I love loads of the pieces, but this necklace with a huge faux pearl, black enamel ears and box gold chain has me hooked.

Check out the rest of the collection on ASOS.

Cx

Kristen Stewart for W Magazine

2011-08-18T13:06:00.000+01:00

Kristen Stewart for W Magazine

Holy cow, Batman! Have you EVER seen K-Stew look this good? Me either! Whoever the make-up/hair/stylist/photographers were, they deserve a big round of applause. Now, I'm not saying that I don't think she can look great, but, to me, she never looks sexy. This W Magazine shoot has made me do a 180.

After a lengthy twitter discussion with MarlboroMartini, we decided that we now actually fancy Kristen (quite a lot) and may have to be forcibly removed from this editorial. We also decided that she looks like a mix of Christy Turlington and Crystal Renn (agree?). Whoever you think she looks like, she looks GOOOOOD!

Cx

FYI, for all you Twi-hards, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1 is out in the UK on November 18th 2011.

Images: W Magazine

I wanna fall from the stars (and into a Dolce & Gabbana dress)

2011-08-16T15:36:00.000+01:00

So yesterday I was harping on about the fact that snakeskin will be huge for AW 11, and it will be, but I would also like to let you in on another trend that will be a hot trend for AW 11 - stars!

Dolce & Gabbana rule this season with their celestial print, with it popping up all over their boy-meets-girl AW 11 collection. Whether it's punchy black and white, or bold yellow and black, draped sheer chiffon or structured cigarette pants, the Dolce & Gabbana star print is what everyone wants to be seen in. It's been a big hit already, with it featuring heavily in editorials and on the red carpet in the past few months.

Jessie J and Anne Hathaway wore the same dress for their, respective, Glamour and Marie Claire Covers, and Beyonce is on the cover of this month's InStyle in shimmering sequin stars. Three covers in two months isn't bad going for one collection and, best of all, they all look fantastic.

But I knew I had to write this post after seeing how good Rose McGowan looked at the VH1 Do Something Awards in a strapless Dolce & Gabbana star dress, which made her look like a real life Betty Boop! The Harper's Bazaar editorial image with Britney is also so gorgeous (I do love a good bit of graffiti *looks up at blog header*).

Cx

Ps. Top marks if you got the Simply Red reference in the title!

Images: Style.com, InStyle, Marie Claire, Glamour, Harper's Bazaar, Getty

Traffic People - Snake Eyes

2011-08-15T17:10:00.000+01:00

Snake Eyes- Blues Dress- Yellow Mix £59

Want to make sure you're wearing the coolest prints for AW 11? Then I recommend a healthy dose of snakeskin. Snakeskin, or the luxe python skin, prints were all over the catwalks for AW 11, including head-to-toe looks at Chloe and Prada, and have been making their way onto the highstreet. When the press release for the new Traffic People snakeskin range landed in my inbox, I was immediately smitten. The multicoloured snakeskin print is beautiful (and ticks the rich, luxe, jewel tone AW 11 trend box, too!) and the dresses look really wearable and luxe.

I'm in L-O-V-E with the Snake Eyes Diversity dress (below image, £72), with that gorgeous print, a belted waist AND a cape back (perfect dress, or what?!)

Snake Eyes- Diversity Dress- Yellow Mix £72

Snake Eyes- Confused Dress- Green Mix £49

Will you be adding some snakeskin to your AW wardrobe?

Cx

It's knot the 90s!

2011-08-12T12:49:00.000+01:00

I'm not usually one for doing outfit posts, but I quite liked what I was wearing yesterday and thought 'why the hell not!'. I clearly need to work on my poses (please be kind!), but hope you like the outfit. I was feeling 90s-tastic with my knotted tee, and I'm really into that look at the moment (especially knotted hems on maxi dresses). The dress is really see-through on the bust, so the addition of a tee is a handy fix.

ASOS Camel Pleated Dress

Knotted h&m Navy V Neck Tee

Raspberry New Look Bag

Black Studded River Island Ballet Pumps

Gold Casio Watch from Time2

Gold Knot New Look Necklace

Would you like to see a few more outfit posts? Let me know!

Shop Spotlight: Miss Selfridge

2011-08-11T13:43:00.001+01:00

First Warehouse, then Topshop, now Miss Selfridge - all shops which have fallen off my radar in recent years currently have clothing that has gone right to the top of my wish list! What's going on?! Maybe it's due to the lady-likeness of the AW 2011 catwalks and the highstreet is mirroring this, or that the 30s, 40s and 70s have remained big influencers in fashion this season, but the high street is starting to look a little more grown up and luxe.

One look at the Miss Selfridge AW 11 lookbook and you can see the difference in styling, silhouette and fabrics, which is a long way from their typical teenage customer's typical look. I'm really loving lots of their clothing (and shoes) at the moment, especially the pussy bow shirt dresses, skater dresses, midi skirts, chiffon shirts and 40s style tea dress. There's still lots of black lace, body-con and jersey mix-and-match items, but Miss Selfridge seems to have grown up.

Here are my top picks from the Miss Selfridge AW 11 drop that's in stores now (I've tried to include other items besides dresses. This was tough).

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

I Love London

2011-08-10T14:02:00.000+01:00

I was born in London. I live in London. I love London. Let's hope the atrocious acts of the few are healed by the love of the majority. We will mend our great city.

Cx

5 Colours in Her Hair

2011-08-04T16:25:00.000+01:00

Yep, totally just used a McFly song as the title for this post (but you already knew that, didn't you??). In case you missed the memo, coloured hair is having a moment. Everyone's at it. Katy Perry has gone pink, Jessie J has gone purple, Kate Bosworth has gone green, and Rihanna's is still bright red.

It seems bright hair colour is moving from 'alternative' to mainstream, due to all the celebs, including Jaime Winstone and Pixie Geldof, who have now embraced the trend and are set to spark 100s of imitations. I actually really love playing around with my hair, and have been every colour from peroxide blonde through to jet black, but have never really dabbled with 'colour'. While I don't think this trend is for everyone, on the right person it can look very cool (and flattering). Jessie J looks great with her purple bob, with a definite Republica vibe going on!

With salons opening all over the place that specialise in bold colours and dip-dying, like Bleach in Dalston/Topshop Oxford Street (the sister salon to the WAH nail), this craze won't just be for celebs and the East London crew (which I'm now in after my recent move to the E17 postcode!). From dip-dying to all over colour, and candy tones to bold primary shades, I think this rainbow-inspired hair trend will be around for a while yet.

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Dolce & Gabbana: Rules for the Modern Gentleman

2011-08-04T10:41:00.001+01:00

Just when you think chilvary is dead, Dolce & Gabbana gallantly come to the aid of women (and the men in their lives) with an iPhone app designed to turn your boy into a sophisticated, dashing and gentlemanly fellow. Dolce & Gabbana, alongside current GQ Editor Dylan Jones, have compiled the 'Dolce & Gabbana Rules for the Modern Gentleman' app with tips on how to be the perfect Modern Gentleman.

Split into three sections, the app covers Etiquette, Style and Grooming, elegantly and intelligently conveying witty tips for a variety of modern scenarios (I love the 'Small Talk' guides in the Etiquette section.). But best of all, the app is completely free to download (how very gentlemanly of Mr Dolce and Mr Gabbana!).

The app was inspired by the new ‘Dolce & Gabbana - The One Fragrance’; a new fragrance for the modern gentleman that embraces all things gallant and elegant. It's available in the UK at Boots, and at Bloomingdales in the US.

Have you tried the app yourself (or secretly downloaded it to your boyfriend's iPhone)? I'm a sucker for chivalrous acts and etiquette, and would like to thank Dolce & Gabbana for trying to make the men of the world more gentlemanly!

Cx

*This is a Sponsored Post*

A Fairytale Takeover

2011-08-03T10:16:00.146+01:00

I don't think you can get more 'Zeitgeisty' (yep, just made that a word) than Fairytales at the moment. With no less than 7 fairytale fable movies released this year/in production, including two Snow White movies, one with Kristen Stewert and one with Lily Collins, Jack and the Beanstalk, a 3D version of Pinocchio, Red Riding Hood with Amanda Seyfried, Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, and Beastly, a Beauty and the Beast adaptation with Vanessa Hudgens, the fairytale is firmly back in vogue.

With fairytales, fables and fantasy movies creating very lucrative franchises, such as Twilight and Harry Potter, the industry is looking to this genre for 'fresh' ideas. And where movies and Hollywood lead, other industries follow. Fashion is always so closely linked to the movies of the the time, and movies play a part in fashion forecasting, creating trends, colours and silhouettes (remember the hugely popular Vivienne Westwood pirate boot resurgence around the time of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies?).

We saw a leap into the modern fairytale at Couture Fashion Week in Paris at several shows, especially Givenchy's angelic collection, and at The White Fairy Tale Love Ball, held by Natalia Vodianova at Valentino's Château (complete with a fairytale painted snow capped background). These couture catwalk trends will continue to filter through the highstreet for 2011/2012, with a gothic vs ethereal fairytale style.

While I've been recently thinking about this trend and doing a post about it, what really got me in the fairytale mood was going to see my brother's play, Little Bear, at the Camden Fringe on Monday night. Based in an enchanted forest, Ula, the Little Bear, retreats into a fairytale land to escape her real life issues, but soon discovers that your problems never really leave you behind.

There's just something about the reworked, magical, fantastical, gothic fairytale that has us hooked, and as 2011 will be all about the fairytale, you best brush up on your Hans Christian Andersen.

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Little Bear runs until the 7th August (except Thursday 4th) at 7pm, with an additional matinee performance at 1pm on Saturday 6th August - St Martin’s Garden, Pratt Street, NW1 0HR. All performances are outside, so bring your own drinks and picnic food, but picnic blankets are provided. And it's free!

Hailee Steinfeld, Elle Fanning and Chloe Moretz cover LOVE magazine

2011-07-29T11:48:00.002+01:00

Chloe Moretz cover LOVE magazine

They have a combined age of 41, have numerous hit movies under the belts and two *huge* modelling contracts with key designers, Marc Jacobs and Miu Miu. Hailee Steinfeld, Elle Fanning and Chloe Moretz are not only making some clever and bold film choices in their young careers, they're now becoming the faces of young fashion and beauty. And I love them!

Hailee Steinfeld cover LOVE magazine

They're all so fresh and interesting, and I actually think they can all act, not just stand around looking pretty or being imitation Lolitas (*cough* Megan Fox's early career *cough*). There has been split opinion in the fashion industry about Hailee Steinfeld becoming the face of Miu Miu and Elle Fanning becoming the face of Marc by Marc Jacobs, with some saying that these teenage poster girls are out of step and much younger than their actual customers, while others say that these girls embody the brand, look great and are very loyal to these brands on the red carpet.

Elle Fanning cover LOVE magazine

I personally don't see the difference in using a 14 year old actress or a 15 year old model to front a campaign for a major fashion brand or to cover a magazine, and these girls are having fun with fashion and looking really good (wish I had had a stylist at 13, would have saved a lot of retrospective cringing!).

This issue of LOVE is available from Monday 1st August.

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Design Your Dream Dress with Oasis and Look Magazine

2011-07-26T13:34:00.001+01:00

Design Your Dream Dress with Oasis and Look Magazine

We've all been there; you know EXACTLY the dress you want for a very important party, but can you find it anywhere? Nope! If only you could design your dream dress yourself. Well, it looks like Oasis and Look magazine have solved our problem.

Design Your Dream Dress with Oasis and Look Magazine

They've just launched the 'Design Your Dream Dress' competition, where you can use their very cute and easy to use (if a bit basic) design tools to create the perfect silhouette, style, colour and even the embellishment details of your dream dress. You submit your final design into the competition and if you're the lucky winner, your design will be on sale at Oasis for the Christmas party season (as well as £1,000 and VIP tickets to The LOOK Show).

Above is my 'Dream Dress' (I'm obsessed with orange dresses at the moment!); not quite what I would call my dream, but to have my dream dress I'd have to whip out my pencil and get designing properly!

Enter the Dream Dress competition here.

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Look How To Video: The French Plait

2011-07-22T13:16:00.000+01:00

I love a good hair tutorial video, and Look magazine do some really good ones (I was a big fan of their soft ponytail video). I constantly look for inspiration for how to style my hair in new and interesting ways, but as my very straight and long hair isn't that easy to style, I sometimes need a little help.

I'm a huge fan of plaits, from beachy plaits to Wang catwalk masterpieces, but I always struggle with the gorgeous and sleek French plait. I recently had my hair French plaited at the Jacques Townhouse event, and loved it. Now all I have to do is try and recreate it myself (without swearing too much or lobbing my brush across the room!).

How to French Plait or Braid Jacques Townhouse

Shop Spotlight: Topshop

2011-07-21T16:16:00.001+01:00

Topshop Spring Summer 2011 Lookbook

I haven't shopped in Topshop in years. Mainly because I can't be bothered to wrestle teenagers and tourists away from the rails, but also because I was fed up of not finding clothes that I really loved or were in my size (yeah, 10 size 6 dresses on the rail, totally reasonable). So I've been rather shocked recently to find myself browsing around Topshop more and more - and liking it!

Let's face it, I'm (sadly) a bit out of Topshop's target market of 16-24 year old students, and with boobs and hips, their clothes aren't usually my friend. But recently I've been amazed that the clothes are fitting, hemlines are below my knees and I can zip things up! Now, don't get carried away, their clothes are still cut on the snug side and some items of clothing should not be worn unless you have model like proportions and are young enough to have an NUS card, but I can see some changes. Even Olivia Palermo has been rocking some Topshop pieces on the red carpet and at couture fashion shows (and rather well, I might add).

Olivia Palermo in Yellow Topshop Dress at Couture Fashion Week

I've actually fallen for quite a few items in the stores at the moment, and OMFrickinG might actually buy something. Here are my top Topshop picks (obviously all dresses, as I have an addiction).

Topshop Dresses

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

What do you think of my picks (and what should I buy)? Are you a Topshop lover or a Topshop fighter?

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Motilo - Putting the social into online shopping

2011-07-19T16:09:00.000+01:00

I love learning about fun and interesting ways to shop online and share looks and style ideas with friends (and my mum), so I was really intrigued when I got approached by Motilo and asked to play around on their brand new social shopping destination, Motilo.com (in beta - so allow for some teething problems).

Launched in April 2011, Motilo.com is an online community where you can shop together in real time with your friends. Motilo offers an interactive fashion-focused social network fused with a unique e-commerce platform. The Motilo shop contains fashion items from hundreds of international websites, each carefully chosen by our in-house stylists each week. On Motilo, our members can create looks using the pieces in our shop, share these looks with friends, and then buy every item in the outfit. Motilo is updated daily with exciting content presented through the eyes of the Motilo girls, Motilo’s magazine and from users who create and submitting looks.

Obviously, the first thing I did was play around in the 'Create a Look' section, which is seriously addictive and is like dressing a digital paper doll. With a simple and fun layout, I quickly got the hang of it, and was resizing, layering and building my looks like a pro in no time. After some spending perhaps a bit *too* much time on building my look (not quite as addictive as Angry Birds, but still...), I settled on this look, which I've called 'Colour Pop Wedding Guest'- what do you think?

The Motilo Girls are also worth mentioning, with blogging superstar, Bip Ling, and Vogue Ed at Large, Anna Dello Russo, being just two of the style-hungry experts giving their top shopping tips and style ideas.

They're also running a great competition on their facebook page to win a Mulberry bag! The more facebook likes they get, the better the Mulberry bag they'll give away (all the deets are here) - so will it be a Daria, Alexa or a Tillie?

Play and shop on Motilo, or facebook and twitter them up!

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*This is a Sponsored Post*

Carina100 Interior Design and Style - The Bedroom

2011-07-16T11:00:00.005+01:00

The one major flaw of mydeco is you build up your own 'Barbie's Dream House', only to remember you don't own the huge house with a swimming pool or orchid outside, or any of the beautiful furniture inside. But it is fun to daydream about it. Moving on from my first dabble with digital interior design and the love affair I'm having with the Green Lounge I created a few weeks ago, I moved onto The Bedroom.

I'm addicted to blue at the moment (must have something to do with my constant desire to be at the seaside), and this tranquil, baroque-meets-modern bedroom is so calming. I love the blue and white striped wallpaper on the alcove wall (Casadeco Wallpaper Stripes OJ760339) and the different shades of blue in the accessories, like the Mimo cobalt blue lamp, the Megan Quinton Eiffel Tower cushions and the John Lewis royal blue attache trunk.

I'm really enjoying creating these mydeco rooms, but I can't wait to start designing some rooms IRL, but until then, let's move on to the kitchen!

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Somewhere over the Rainbow with Christopher Kane Pre-collection SS 12

2011-07-15T12:41:00.000+01:00

Seeing this pre-collection SS12 from Christopher Kane has instantly brightened my day. I love how Christopher Kane shakes things up every season, yet has such a distinct style. Acidic rainbows and shimmering, metallic pink pleats? Hell to the yeah! Roll on London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011.

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The Best of the My-Wardrobe Sale + get an extra 20% off!

2011-07-14T17:14:00.001+01:00

I've been trying to avoid sale shopping, but My-wardrobe are making it very difficult for me! There are so many amazing pieces in their Summer Sale, including Mulberry, See by Chloe, Elizabeth and James, Tibi and DVF, at up to 70% off (how's a girl meant to resits that!?). And if that wasn't stupidly tempting enough, there's now an extra 20% off sale price discount code doing the rounds (it's mw20 fyi, valid until midnight on Wednesday).

These are my top picks from the sale, which either have a tran-seasonal, classic element or will work really well for AW 11, especially the beautiful orange Tibi dress which ticks so many AW 11 boxes!

Stylestalker: Young Hollywood

2011-07-12T13:12:00.002+01:00

stylestalker young hollywood

Stylestalker is one of the hottest new labels to come out of Australia since Seafolly. Launched in 2008 by Sue-Ann San and Rachel Zeilic, self confessed 'style stalkers', they create clothes that just scream 'style'. Mixing a beachy-boho, grungy vibe with edgy separates and killer mini dresses, I pretty much love them. A lot.

Their latest (and best) collection is their SS 11 offering, Young Hollywood. Mixing LA and Australian styles and with a modern, yet retro feel, this collection works so well, but stylestalker's real strength lies in the fact that each item in the collection is a stand-out, key piece in it's own right. The lookbook for Young Hollywood is a little bit awesome, as it should be, it's shot by the oh-so-talented Kimberley Gordon from Wildfox.

stylestalker young hollywood

If I wasn't daydreaming already about running away to LA and living it up in The Château, I am now.

Stylestalker is available at asos.

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Carina Covets Couture - Elie Saab Fall 2011

2011-07-11T17:15:00.000+01:00

Elie Saab has always been one of my favourite couture designers, and although he rarely mixes up his classic style and distinct couture mixture of lace, embellishment, chiffon, nipped in waists and billowing skirts, you can't help but fall in love with practically every look that so elegantly floats down the catwalk.

Following on from my previous Paris Couture Fall 2011 Fashion Week posts and the out-of-this-world Givenchy collection last week, I had very high hopes for Mr Saab's latest Haute Couture offering. The ombre palette for the collection was simply stunning, from a pale silvery-blue first look, to a deep navy finale, and slimmer gowns mixed in with his synonymous full styles gave the whole collection a fresh yet antiqued feel.

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Images: Style.com

The White Fairy Tale Love Ball - Best Dressed

2011-07-07T16:56:00.000+01:00

The White Fairy Tale Love Ball Natalia Vodianova and Valentino

Following on nicely from yesterday's post about the ethereal Givenchy Couture show during Haute Couture week in Paris, we have the enchanted red carpet looks from the The White Fairy Tale Love Ball. In honour of Natalia Vodianova's charity, the Naked Heart Foundation, and held at Valentino's Château de Wideville in Paris (very nice, too!), the White Fairy Tale Love Ball red carpet was like a couture catwalk in itself, with a fashion guest list to rival Kate Moss' wedding reception!

Being a living-and-breathing Disney Princess, Anne Hathaway had this one in the bag, and was the White Queen to Natalia's Red Queen. I'm in love with the dreamy, rose tinted vibe to the whole event. Couture, Château and Chairty - a winning combination!

The White Fairy Tale Love Ball Anne Hathaway

The White Fairy Tale Love Ball Olivia Palermo

The White Fairy Tale Love Ball Margherita Missoni, Tatiana Santo Domingo and Eugenie Niarchos

The White Fairy Tale Love Ball Anna dello Russo

The White Fairy Tale Love Ball Elena-Perminova

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Images: Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images Europe

Carina Covets Couture - Givenchy Fall 2011

2011-07-06T14:58:00.000+01:00

As soon as I saw this image of Givenchy's Fall 2011 Couture Collection I tried to take in all the beauty of the intricate looks, but my eyes went straight to the fringed clutch bags. They reminded me straight away of a Fendi bag I have longed for since I watched Carrie parade around with ~~her~~ my bag on the Sex and the City episode 'Lights, Camera, Relationship'. Sigh.

Back to the clothes. While this collection is similar to Riccardo Tisci's last collection for Givenchy Couture, inspired by birds, origami and warriors (which Cate Blanchett, Florence Welch and Liv Tyler were all spotted in), the Fall 2011 collection has such an angelic, gilded, sophisticated edge to it I've completely fallen for it. It's so beautiful and embodies what Haute Couture is truly about. I don't even want to think of the amount of man hours that went into each and every last stitch.

I'll be bringing you more from Paris Couture Fashion Week soon, including the always beautiful Elie Saab collection.

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Images: Style.com

The Summer of Love (and Wedding Dresses)

2011-07-03T16:36:00.000+01:00

Kate Moss' wedding dress - John Galliano

It's well and truly wedding season and in a matter of weeks we've seen amazing celebrity and royal weddings from some of the most influential names in the fashion industry; including the new sell-out-sensation Kate Middleton in Sarah Burton for Mcqueen, THE trend-starter supermodel Kate Moss in John Galliano, vintage darling Lily Allen in Delphine Manivet and the willowy model Abbey Clancy in Giles Deacon.

Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress - Sarah Burton for McQueen

These brides will shape the wedding industry for years to come, as women tear pages from their copies of Grazia (who needs to buy wedding mags when there's a different celeb wedding each week in the fashion mags) and start demandimg elegant, vintage inspired dresses, modest sleeves, traditional ivory shades, delicate lace, undone, relaxed hair styles and make up, and more traditional, country style weddings.

Lily Allen's Wedding Dress - Delphine Manivet

Having worked in the wedding dress industry for over 6 years when I was a student (I have some GREAT bridezilla stories), I like to think I know a few things about THE dress (I can nearly always guess what wedding dress you'll end up buying). This many key fashion influencer and their hugely publicised weddings will have a huge impact on the industry and spawn 100s of copycat styles and see a move towards more traditional, romantic dresses and weddings.

Abbey Clancy's Wedding Dress - Giles Deacon

I know we don't need much of an excuse to look at all this gorgeous couture - we all love looking at pretty dresses, but mark my words, these wedding dress styles will be dominating weddings of late 2011 and for many years to come!

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Carina Covets Cooking - Warm Cheese & Chorizo Tarts

2011-07-02T11:00:00.000+01:00

Following on from the new 'Carina Covets Cooking' feature on the blog, (we started with carrot cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting) I'm now doing one of my favourite savoury dishes, Warm Cheese & Chorizo Tarts.

These tarts are so quick and easy to make, and the best bit is you can add or take away ingredients as you please, or customise each portion to fit each persons taste (the tart feeds 4 as a starter, 2 as a main). I always cheat and buy ready made puff pastry, how does the old mantra go? 'Life's too short to make your own pastry'!

Ingredients:
425g Jus Rol Puff Pastry Sheets
100g Thinly Sliced Chorizo (can use Parma ham or other deli meats)
150-200g cheese (I use mature cheddar and goats cheese, but can use any mix of cheeses)
150g baby plum tomatos (I prefer not to half them, as I like whole roasted tomatoes)
1-2 large mushrooms, sliced
50g tomato purée
100g Rocket
Balsamic Vinegar

1. Preheat oven to 200°C and line a large tray with baking parchment.

2. Unroll the room temperature pastry and place onto the lined tray.

3. Apply a generous layer of tomato purée to the pastry, leaving a 3cm edge around the pastry.
Scatter half the grated/torn cheese over the pasty topped with tomato puree. Then tear and scatter the chorizo (and/or other meats) over the base. Place the tomatoes and sliced mushrooms evenly over the base. Scatter the remaining cheese over the filling and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edge have puffed and turned golden brown.

4. Serve immediately with a rocket leaf salad and drizzle the tart and salad with balsamic vinegar.

Happy Baking!

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No7 Stay Perfect Nail Colours Masterclass with Jamie Nunn

2011-06-30T16:50:00.001+01:00

Even though I'm a huge fan of nail art, I've never really mastered it. What I really needed was a masterclass with a nail guru. And luckily I got just that at the No7 Stay Perfect Nail Colours launch with Jamie Nunn (don't you just love it when a plan comes together?).

With 20 new catwalk inspired shades in a range of colours from chic neutrals, classic reds and delicate pastels to in-your-face pinks and glossy metallics, these new No7 nail colours are seriously gorgeous and really reflect the up-coming trends for AW 11. My personal favourite was Lucky Lilac, a beautiful pastel shade that will take you from AW 11 through to SS 12 (very Miu Miu).

Now the fun bit! We all got to sit around a table, and, led by Jamie (head of nails at X Factor and tends to many a celeb's nails, including Cheryl Cole and Lady Gaga!), we were taken step-by-step through some easy (and some not so easy) nail art techniques. My favourite (mainly because it looked the best when I tried it on my nail wheel) was the Marble Nail, and here's a quick 'How To' from Jamie himself:

Apply a thin layer of base coat.
When dry, apply 2 coats of a coloured nail varnish and let it dry (Sing the Blues works well).
Take a clean make up brush and paint a metallic colour onto a corner of the sponge. Gently dab the sponge over the nail for an 'antiqued' look. (Hot to Trot is a great colour for this).
When this layer is dry, cover with a top coat!

In between creating our nail works of art, we also munched on very tasty Molly Bakes cake pops and Really Ree and I 'fell behind' the rest of the class as we gossiped, ate cheese and fell in love with the Swarovski crystal nails that Jamie was working on for Lady Gaga's latest video (see below).

Emma Stone - Vanity Fair August 2011

2011-06-29T13:56:00.001+01:00

As if I could love Miss Emma Stone any more than I already do!? Following on nicely from my last 50s inspired, bathing-beauty-filled OMEGA post, comes Emma Stone's shoot for Vanity Fair's August issue. With her hair still a baby blonde shade (she's since returned to her trademark red hair), ruby red lips and an amazing selection of 50s, vintage inspired bikinis, these images, shot by Patrick Demarchelier in St. Barth’s, show that Emma can be a Hollywood siren as well as a great comedy actress. I want to live in this photo shoot. Pretty please?

Watch the 'behinds the scenes' video of the shoot here.

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Images: Vanity Fair/Patrick Demarchelier

The OMEGA Ladymatic Pool Party

2011-06-29T11:38:00.000+01:00

There ain't no party like an OMEGA Pool Party. Seriously. I will now find it difficult to enjoy a party that doesn't have a pool and synchronised swimmers. Add in the glamour of the Haymarket Hotel, the 50s theme dress code and the bathing beauties lounging by the pool, you can see why this party for the launch of the OMEGA Ladymatic has spoilt me and ruined all future parties.

The OMEGA Ladymatic reintroduces a name from the storied brand’s illustrious past. Originally launched in 1955 and continuing for the better part of a generation, the Ladymatic wristwatch line defined feminine grace and elegance in another era. It was one of the brand’s first self-winding watches to be designed especially for women and it featured the smallest automatic movement OMEGA had ever made.

The new OMEGA Ladymatic Collection draws certain influences from its namesake: like the original Ladymatic watches, the line perfectly blends graceful, timeless design and OMEGA’s groundbreaking technology. The new collection, with its Co-Axial technology and bold fashion features, takes the best elements of an earlier era and introduces them, completely updated and upgraded, to discriminating women in a new century.

Not only did I love the party, I also fell for the beautiful and oh-so-elegant Ladymatic watch range, which Nicole Kidman is the very ladylike 'face' of. They're also practical as well as pretty; waterproof up to 200m (hence the pool party. Clever, huh?).

This party was a celeb fest too, with the hot (but sadly short) Jesse Metcalfe, the beautiful and smiling Sophie Ellis Bexter, a blooming Jodie Kidd, Matt Cardle (X Factor, crap hat ... remember him?) and, apparently, a whole host of Olympians (that I didn't recognise!).

Beyoncé launches new album with secret London gig

2011-06-28T16:06:00.001+01:00

Last night, the reigning Queen of Glastonbury, Beyoncé, showcased songs from her forthcoming album, 4, at a secret gig in London. I was lucky enough to get invited to the intimate gig. Fans, press and her many, MANY celebrity fans, including husband Jay-Z, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessie J, Adele, Tinie Tempah, Ewan McGregor, Stella McCartney, Paloma Faith, Tom Ford and Alison Mosshart turned out for the hour long set.

Beyonce performing at secret London gig for 4 album launch

Beyonce secret London gig for 4 album launch Adele, Jessie J, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jay-Z

The crowd was going crazy before B even put a Louboutin on stage, with huge cheers as the A-list guests took their VIP seats. Adele and Jessie J (and her crutches) received huge cheers, as did Jay-Z and Tinie Tempah, but, most surprisingly, it was Gwyneth Paltrow who everyone went NUTS for.

Beyonce performing at secret London gig for 4 album launch

Beyoncé looked beautiful in a fringed yellow dress, and was flanked by dancers in the same dress, but in other colour popping shades (very AW 11), and an all-girl backing singer and band collective. She was, of course, amazing, beautiful and very endearing. It was incredible to watch her perform in such an intimate and relaxed setting (she even took song requests from the crowd!).

Beyonce performing Single Ladies at secret London gig for 4 album launch

Beyonce performing Halo at secret London gig for 4 album launch

My favourite song of the night was Beyoncé's cover of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody (you can have a listen in the video below), but she also tried her hand at Prince and Kings of Leon, as well as tracks from her new album, 4, and Beyoncé classics, like Single Ladies and Halo.

Beyonce performing at secret London gig for 4 album launch

Beyonce performing Rule the World at secret London gig for 4 album launch

ALDO AW 11 'Get Lucky' Launch Party

2011-06-27T12:22:00.001+01:00

Aldo AW 2011 'Get Lucky' Launch Party

You just know it's going to be a good party when all the Surgery PR girls are wearing THE best glittery, purple, 70s inspired platform sandals. And my first instincts were right - the ALDO AW 11 'Get Lucky' Launch Party was lots of fun.

The 'Get Lucky' AW 11 campaign is fronted by the gorgeous Lily Donaldson (she's even more beautiful IRL), and has a distinct 1970s casino feel. We had a preview of the adverts and videos for the campaign and they are really brilliant and fun, full or personality and reflect the ALDO brand perfectly.

The party was also to launch their new collection, ALDO Rise, which sees ALDO collaborating with the best new design talent in the UK and US, with Mark Fast, JW Anderson and Preen flying the Brit flag.

We were also very spoilt and each given the chance to order a complimentary pair of shoes from any of the shoes on display, and while they were all out-of-this-world stunning, as soon as I saw the bow bag (pictured below), my decision was made (you didn't think I could turn down a bag, did you!?).

Sunday Girl and Jameela Jamil at Aldo AW 2011 'Get Lucky' Launch Party

Aldo AW 2011 'Get Lucky' Launch Party

Aldo and Douglas Bensadoun at Aldo AW 2011 'Get Lucky' Launch Party

Lily Donaldson at Aldo AW 2011 'Get Lucky' Launch Party

Fashionista Barbie at Aldo AW 2011 'Get Lucky' Launch Party

Thanks to Danielle from Fashionista Barbie and Sara for being my party buddies and for Surgery PR for the invite!

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Cara Delevingne gets dressed for The Telegraph

2011-06-24T15:57:00.003+01:00

This video for The Telegraph featuring model-of-the-moment, and one of my favourite new faces, Cara Delevingne, is bloody brilliant! It's easy to see why Cara keeps landing such high profile campaigns and walks the tightrope line between commercial and high end fashion so well.

Read the accompanying interview here.

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Source: The Telegraph