Beyond fashion and trends

Will the high street scuff Jimmy Choo image? - By: Nashen Bata




Next time you are in Bond Street, take a minute to press your nose against the window pane of a boutique for a seductive view of posh frocks and wacky shoes. Leer at the snooty shop assistants, giggle and leave a greasy smear on the glass. Do not go in and don’t make a purchase, because exclusive designer wear is clobber that is not for you.
High-end fashion retailing is for people who pay over the odds not to be near you or be seen by you, except in the gossip columns of magazines. It is a place where price secures exclusivity.
If that is true, why is Jimmy Choo selling stilettos and sandals at Hennes & Mauritz for £79? H&M is a chain store that sells T-shirts and denim for teenage kids, not diamante-encrusted silks for Paris Hilton. Logic suggests that a pile-em-high merchant, such as H&M, is too downmarket for Jimmy Choo’s exotic pumps — the bedazzling and bizarre thousand dollar foot clamps made famous by the TV series Sex and the City. What a comedown for Jimmy Choo to be forced to stock its over-the-top flimflam at H&M.
The great thing about recessions is that all consumer products find their natural home, their perfect price point. The end-of-year ritual of destocking, of discounting last year’s bad colour, wrong hemline or other disastrous idea is, in recession extended to a whole collection, even a brand. In other words, the chill wind has found Jimmy Choo a natural home not in Bond Street but in White City. The shoes are seen to be not premium but Primark, not luxury, just flashy.
This recession has been very bad for designer luxury and even if the slummy end of the high street is recovering, it isn’t over yet for people who sell £5,000 watches and £500 shoes. When the gale hit Wall Street last year and toppled a bank or two, several rash merchants insisted that the truly rich would carry on spending. They didn’t. Those who should know better forgot that the truly rich are truly mean.
Richemont, the Swiss company that owns a clutch of watch brands, said this week that half-year sales were down 15 per cent, while Burberry revealed a 19 per cent drop in profit. In October, LVMH, which owns Louis Vuitton luggage and Tag Heuer watches, said that revenues over nine months had suffered a 6 per cent fall. The decline in watch and jewellery sales was 28 per cent, which it blamed on dealer destocking.
The hustlers of luxury could just sit tight, trim overheads and wait it out, but curious schemes are being hatched to get the top line moving. Ebel, a venerable maker of Swiss timepieces, is introducing a range of watches targeted at the daughters of the wealthy. A typical Ebel sells for SwFr4,000 (£2,360) and they go as high as SwFr8,000, but times are tough, so Ebel hopes to loosen Dad’s grip on his wallet with pieces for precious poppet costing less than SwFr2,000.
Cartier, too, is toying with a junior luxury range, with the launch of a new line of “welcome” products aimed at the young but comfortable. Marc Michel-Amadry, co-president of Ebel, said the firm needed to recruit the children of their customers to brand loyalty as well as deal with pricing problems. “Consumers have to think of value now. They have become more demanding,” he said.
That does not solve the branding problem. If your business is selling trinkets (or shoes) to the truly rich and vulgar, does it make sense to market a range that tells the buyer that her wealth is, frankly, a bit juvenile. Or that her shoes are junior Choos?
The pressure on these firms to generate more income is intense after a lost year. According to Ledbury Research, a consultancy that monitors the spending habits of our betters, the market for luxury goods will shrink by 15 per cent this year. Worse, it will barely improve next year, according to Ledbury, which is forecasting a mere 1 per cent increase in spending in 2010.
One-off designer promotions have become regular occurrences at H&M, which in previous years has puffed Stella McCartney and Karl Lagerfeld. Gap is also in on the act, as is Uniqlo, promoting Jil Sander. It is easy to see why this benefits H&M. Mass-market retailing is about footfall, drawing shoppers inside and getting them spending. It’s almost irrelevant how many Jimmy Choo gladiator heels are sold; what matters is the crowds and the extra impulse spending on tops, knickers and jeans.
But for luxury designers, this is a dance with the devil that could, if mishandled, destroy the cachet of a brand. James Lawson, a director at Ledbury, wonders how it benefits the likes of Jimmy Choo to be associated with H&M. “It’s a no-brainer for mass-market retailers, it creates awarenesss. But Jimmy Choo could easily produce £50 shoes. The question is: does it destroy their ability to sell £500 shoes?”
It raises the prospect that the posh end of fashion will segment into true luxury and copycat luxury, or “bubble brands”, which hop between high street and Bond Street until their stars fade.
Or is Jimmy Choo really on to something? Could it be that the bottom and top end of retailing are in some way connected, leaving the middle out on a limb? It is the puritan middle who sniffs at gladiator heels, who scoff at toe-crunching stilettos. Who wears such stuff? Footballers wives, bankers’ wives and office girls from Romford. What lies between them is just a price tag.

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Ray Ban Sunglasses Symbolize Unique Fashion Statement and Protection - By: Article Publisher



It is a well-known and common adage that fashion and style matters a lot for people in this highly advanced and innovative era. Exhibiting a unique sense of fashion through latest costumes and stylish as well as trendy fashion accessories is a dream of people today. Among all the accessories, one thing always comes first and it is high quality and unique sunglasses. Yes, it is true that wearing sunglasses not only adds spice in the beauty, but also keeps eyes protected from harmful rays of sunlight. In addition to look beautiful, numerous people also wear prescription sunglasses because of some eye problems.

Today, the increasing demand of these unique items has increased the number of manufacturers of sunglasses. However, they all are offering quality items, but unable to touch the heights of success that Ray Ban has already touched. Yes, it is right; this globally known brand has carved a special niche in the hearts of wearers by offering unique and high-quality sunglasses. Since its inception, Ray Ban is known globally for selling high quality and unique sun glasses. It is one of the leading brands that have something for everyone. Classic, sexy and sophisticated sunglasses from Ray Ban allure the attention of both men and women of all ages.

Because of offering unique quality and innovative styles at regular intervals, this brand name has been able to retain its loyal chain of sunglasses’ lovers. In other words, the craze and loyalty associated with the Ray Ban articles has not diminished to a single point. Having a pair of beautiful Ray Ban sunglasses is considered as a trend today as it not only shows the richness of wearers, but also makes them centre of attraction. This is the main reason that everyone wants to have these stylish pieces of creativity.

A variety of series of sunglasses from Ray Ban with an element of artistic creativity is one of the highly advanced and developed series available in the marketplaces. Depending upon your requirement and preference, these sunglasses are available in different lens colors, designs and styles, you can select one or more easily. You can also buy prescription or stylish sunglasses online as numerous suppliers are selling them online at easy on the pocket prices.

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[title]Camilla Franks - Australian fashion icon [/title] - By: Jerald Atay



A fashion icon was in the works the moment the vibrant Camilla Franks created her 1st kaftan five years before.
This previous actress donned melodramatic costumes of her very own making and had her mom's love of kaftans as inspiration in her launching of a clothing line that would make its mark in the history of Aussie fashion. With fans like Nicole Kidman, Bette Midler and Sharon Stone it didn't take long for celebs like Gwen Stefani, the Pussycat Dolls and Paula Abdul her talent for design and color.
The Camilla brand fuses exotic flavour and worldly charm to ageless fashion. Its designer describes it as a label that doesn't discriminate. This is proven in the designers constant world travels to search for inspiration. She makes all sizes and shapes for all areas of life and characters and just likes ladies to look as well as feel beautiful whether in a micro-mini or cocktail dress.
A great number of graphic and lively prints are featured in her collections which are made of scratch. Her ever-growing global-popularity is proven in her stockists. The brand's stocks lie principally in luxury shops and high end department stores across the planet. These include Harvey Nichols in Riyadh, Dubai, Dublin and UK, Henri Bendel as well as David Jones in her hometown. She partnered with Elizabeth Arden, world beauty house that launched Camilla's Mosaic Collection in 2007.
in cooperation with UNIFEM that the women's funds for the United countries, Camilla launched her book women of the planet in 2007. The non-profit book gives tribute to 100 inspiring and influential ladies and is available at all David Jones outlets countrywide.
Camilla jumped her class in history as the 1st Aussie designer who was personally invited aboard one of the planet's's most exclusive luxury cruise liners, The World. She charmed folks on the cruise through the Adriatic Sea and Greek Isles via a fashion show that featured her Spring / Summer Collection. She'll once more exhibit her collections this season as The World sails Mexico's high seas next month. The 1st seaborne conduit for the Camilla brand is a pop-up store aboard the planet.
The Camilla brand in addition has partnered with six-star Huyafen Fushi Resort and Spa chain so as to further corner the affluent market of the luxury travel line. Trunk show hosting are also in line for Camilla at different relaxing retrease in Sri Lanka, Dubai as well as Maldives. This includes a collaboration with Swarovski for each hotel guest to personalize or crystallize their Camilla kaftan. Huyafen Fushi Resort guests in the Maldives will similarly be given the chance to personalize their Camilla piece which was specially made for the resort.


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Go for London Alternative Fashion Week near Liverpool Street Tube Station - By: bryan hills


Alternative Fashion Weeks is all set to put the Stage on fire. It will groom up some of the existing fashion ideas, while flashing some unique and fresh innovations in the market. London Alternative Fashion Week will commence from 18th if April and will go on till 23rd of April, on at the Spitalfields Trade Market. This Fashion week gives an opportunity to the fledging fashion designers, to bring their designs in the market. You will find the most innovative and original work of the designers.

There will be 70 fashion designers participating in this event, who will bring a majestic collection from their stores. 14 different designers will make a show of their designs every day throughout the week. You can join this event and see some of the finest designs of the season. Like every year, London fashion Week will have something for women as well as man covering every genre which includes clothes, footwear and accessories. These designs have been casted by giving due attention to environmental implications. You can catch these designers spilling their innovative designs before the media, public and the rivals at Liverpool Street. You will also get an opportunity to get your hands on some of the best cloths, accessories and foot wears at the fashion market from 11am to 5pm on all the days during the week. Fashion week will see some trained models walking down the stage in elegance. Alternative fashion Week will have some fashion shows, talent art that will enthrall the event.

The London alternative Fashion week is arranged by the Alternative Arts. Alternative Arts also stages a lot of other events throughout the year like dance festivals, music programs, and exhibitions on subjects like Literature, photography and art. So you can see for more occasions with Alternative Arts, near the Liverpool Street tube station, which also serves as a center for many other significant events taking place in London. You can travel here by tube as a good network of tube connects the places of London. You can boards a tube to Liverpool Tube station, which will leave this destination point to a short distance. Lodging in this area will be a good idea, as it will give you an opportunity to explore some of the Liverpool attractions. Find yourself some suitable lodgings with Liverpool street hotels. There is a mélange of options from bed and breakfast hotels to luxury hotels.
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Beyond fashion and trends- The Elements of style. - By: Jack Race1

A Way Beyond Fashion analyzes the shifting boundaries between style and fashion design. Fashion Beat must pleasantly execute them and the styling of the pieces is an understatement.

Have you ever seen someone wearing clothes that are very smart and very nice, but the person is just not pulling them off? They're evidence that even a great wardrobe does not equal great style. And that lack of a few simple essentials will sabotage any look. Follow a few basic guidelines to avoid this problem

Fine grooming

This has got to be the number one means to make or break a look. Nobody looks good with straggly, greasy hair, chewed up fingernails, gross skin, unplucked eyebrows, and leg stubble. Take care of your skin. Take care of your hair. Take care of your cleanliness. Take care of your nails. In short, take care of yourself in all aspects.

Pleasant clothes

Nice clothes don’t mean expensive clothes. Style is priceless, but doesn't have to be high-priced. Take care of your clothes, as you should present yourself in a pleasant way. USE AN IRON. An iron is always your friend. More importantly, it is your clothing's companion. Love your iron. It loves you too!

Moderation

Please, do not do accessory too much. No one likes wearing huge hoope earrings, a beaded fringe necklace, a lariat, bangle bracelets, and those gross little butterfly hair clips. ALL IN ONE OUTFIT. Words can not describe how wrong this is, so know about it by yourself.

Find What Works

Don't trust mirrors. Pictures are much better indicators of how you appear. So find a really good picture of yourself, one you actually like. Why do you like it? Think of what is pleasing you, whether it's the color red, a great hairstyle, good lighting, or falling in love. And put together the most of it with every outfit.
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Summer Fashionable Hats - By: Nair Suresh


Summer time is the best time, when every woman wants to show how fashionable she is. Fashion clothing and fashion accessories are very important to take part in forming the style. If you wear trendy necklace, bracelets or other little details then it shows a fashion style. You can even choose nice purse which would look nice in your hand. As far as during this season of the year you have to cover your head for you may get sunstroke. A hat or a bonnet may become a perfect accessory to fulfill your style and express character. And there are so many hats in the market, but you can choose some trendy hats which would look beautiful on your head.

Latest trend is hat made of straws. What you must have in your wardrobe is a black straw hat with wide edges and a rounded vertex girded with a band. This kind of hat is definitely the most fashionable this summer. Although black is very popular, you may choose any other dark color that would fit better with your fashion clothing. If you're planning a trip to the beach where women commonly wear light dresses or swimsuit, pick a white hat and you'll look perfect.

The other fashionable way to cover your head is a cap. You have to pick them carefully and it matches with sporty style or jeans. Men should pick washed pigment-dyed caps. You don't have to buy a new one and make it look as if it was used for 10 years, you'll undoubtedly find those in any fashionable shop and you can wear it. While men are into "dirty" style, women are suggested caps with flowers. A bright colored cap will surely make you look trendy, fashionable and add charm to your appearance. It would look beautiful on your head.

It’s a must to have a hat for real lady. It's very hard to define what is on top, because top is originality. Large hats of any color decorated with flowers and bands are always trendy and in fashion; however, you may find something very different and look amazing. Hats are not for everyday use. Original hat will make you noticeable and complete your style better than any other accessory.
If you don’t find a hat that fits your style or your face shape, choose original and practical way to cover the head. You may choose any material and tie it up any way you like. It goes perfectly with any style. It creates a characterized style.

Amongst all these hats, popular hats are crocheted hats. It’s hard to find this hat in a shop. You have to find an originally designed one or make it yourself. You can be sure that if it'll be self-made you'll receive compliments not only for hat but also for your good work.

While choosing a hat you should be careful. This summer is a great chance to start wearing it, because no matter what you choose - you look trendy and in fashion. You may feel free to experiment with various materials and forms. Being original this season means being fashionable.

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The fashion industry is changing, one plus-size model at a time - By: Freshoutsourcing


In a society where weight loss is an obsession and the media constantly overwhelms us with images of stick-thin models, plus-size women haven't been made to feel very welcome in the fashion world. But some recent encouraging developments suggest that change is on the horizon. Glamour magazine's photo of Lizzi Miller, radiantly oblivious to her belly fat, and plus-sized Crystal Renn's acceptance in the fashion world give hope to advocates of more realistic portrayals of women's bodies.

Lizzi Miller's photo amounted to only 3" long by 3" wide and was hidden on page 194 of Glamour's September edition, but that didn't prevent it from sparking a flurry of comments from ecstatic readers. Twenty-year-old Lizzi, a size 12-14 and weighing in at 180 lbs., isn't your typical anorexic model. In fact, she's not the least bit ashamed of her vibrant, healthy "plus-size" body, and it shows-she's beaming and radiant in the photo, as if to say that a little bit of flab isn't the big deal everyone seems to make it out to be. And she's not alone in her hope that the fashion industry will cede to the mounting pressure on them to feature more average-looking women. Lizzi explains that she first began to embrace her curves when "J. Lo and Beyoncé came out and were making curves sexy…just seeing them look and feel sexy enabled me to do the same." And it so happens that Lizzi's photo had the same effect on hundreds of viewers. Glamour editor Cindi Leive claims that "immediately, within hours of the magazine coming out, we had people telling us they were e-mailing it to friends, and that it was the first time they felt good about their own bodies, looking at this picture." Asked whether she expects this overwhelming response to Lizzi's photo is likely to impact the modeling industry (where any size over six is considered a plus-size), Leive said: "I think it absolutely will…It's also a sign of the times that women are really looking for a little bit more authenticity and a little bit less artifice in every part of their lives."

Crystal Renn, currently one of the world's most successful supermodels, began her career as an anorexically-skinny 14-year-old. That is to say, she was forced to slice nine inches off her plump and healthy 13-year-old hips in order to fit the cookie-cutter image of the US size-zero supermodel ideal. In her autobiography, Hungry, Renn explains that while her modelling career flourished she was close to death's door. She was so malnourished that she suffered heart palpitations, would faint if she walked too far, and her bones looked as though they would poke right through her skin. Soon she realized that a life of starvation and misery wasn't for her, she started eating again and she's now a voluptuous UK size 16. And as a matter of fact, she's more in-demand now than ever, which goes to show that the fashion industry is slowly ending its obsessive love affair with skeletal models to embrace womanly curves. Indeed, Renn has shown up in Italian Vogue, Italian Vanity Fair, Italian Elle, Cosmo Girl, and is the only plus-size model ever to have been featured on the cover of Harper's Bazaar. Renn's agent, Gary Dakin, whose agency represents models UK size 12-22, insists that plus-size models are no longer a novelty bracket of the industry but will be sought out for the simple reason that they are beautiful. Style arbiter Stephen Bayley observes in his new book, Women as Design, that "in periods when we are impoverished, as now, there is a vogue for voluptuous women" and Roland Mouret claims "advertising [is] going back to that powerful 1980s mentality...when supermodels were several sizes larger than top models today." Designers, too, are coming to the realization that plus-size models deserve a much larger slice of the spotlight.
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