Celebrity Style

Kelly Brook New Look

For all you tech savvy fashionistas out there you should check out New Look’s UK flagship at Marble Arch. The store has launched an innovative concept with Blippar, the world's first mobile augmented reality and image recognition platform enabling advertisers to reach consumers via outdoor ads, billboards, magazine and in New Look’s case, window displays. For the less tech savvy, Blippar is simply another phone app, but the first of its kind to recognise images.

New Look had a glamorous assistant on hand to cut the ribbon and launch the concept, the lovable and curvy Kelly Brook. Kelly Brook has long had links with New Look with her high street lingerie and swimwear lines appealing to a wide range of customers. Kelly kept her clothes on for the launch wearing a seventies inspired black wide-legged jumpsuit with up hair. The new Blippar POS is for Kelly Brook’s new make-up range. The store is one of the new premium and boutique stores featuring cutting edge technology such as the Blippar enabled Kelly Brook POS.

So how does it work? Customers are able to ‘blipp’ the POS to load rich media content enabling them to try on Kelly Brook's nail varnish range as well as having their photo taken with Kelly and watch an exclusive New Look video of Kelly talking about her new make up range. To blipp the window display customers need to download the free Blippar app then scan Kelly Brook's signature to load interactive content.

Peter Andre Milano Shirt

The press release says ‘Peter Andre launches stunning new men’s clothing range’. They weren’t my words, yet on inspection, the range isn’t half bad. Undoubtedly it is very ‘Peter Andre’ but there are a lot of ‘Peter Andre’ type men out there. Men who like slim fitting shirts, plucked eyebrows and a year-round tan.

So 'alpha by Peter Andre' is the new and exclusive menswear range designed by the man himself.  Having been involved in the entire design process, Peter is extremely proud and excited to be welcoming his Autumn/Winter 12/13 men's fashion collection which follows his sell out Spring/Summer' 12 range. Including the Greek Alpha a symbol on all of his designs, Peter wanted to symbolize a cultural yet fashionable sign of his Greek heritage.

The collection is predominantly shirts and t-shirts, so you could wear a different Peter Andre shirt for every day of the week. Prices are fairly average for a brand but pricier than high street favourites, at £25 for a tee and £55-£60 for a long sleeved shirt. I rather like the Milano, a narrow stripe button down collar shirt featuring contrast under collar and placket.

Black ASOS Jumpsuit

Just a few weeks ago, Kristen Stewart was wallowing in heartbreak after her break-up from Robert Pattinson. Most recently however, Kristen was at the premiere of her new film, with no sign of puffy eyes and smudged eyeliner in sight. The actress looked great in a jumpsuit outfit, and although Robert Pattinson wasn’t by her side on the night, rumour has it the pair are back together. Said to be a private couple and very much in love, R-Patz must have forgiven Kristen for her alleged affair with came out in the press last summer.

So, Kristen looked back to her not-so-smiley self at the premiere for her new movie On The Road in Los Angeles on Saturday. True to her own sense of style she shunned the girlie dresses in favour of a Balenciaga monochrome jumpsuit designed by head designer Nicolas Ghesquiere. The piece had a fitted white top with cut-away midriff and high-waisted straight black trousers. Androgynous yet sexy, the outfit showed off her small frame and flat stomach.

Kristen teamed her Balenciaga jumpsuit with classic black Christian Louboutin heels, smoky eyes, dark red lips and hair pulled back into a ponytail. Her On the Road co-star Amy Adams went for a full skirted floral print prom dress in black satin, beautiful. Earlier in the day, to promote the final Twilight instalment, Breaking Dawn: Part 2, Kristen wore an optical illusion dress in black with green panels. Once again, simple yet stylish.

Louise Thompson Goddiva Blouse

Have you been watching the new series of Made in Chelsea? It is definitely my guilty pleasure and perks up Monday nights. As much as I love the gossip, I also like watching the Made in Chelsea stars for the fashion. These are a group of people who always look good, sometimes over groomed (the men), but still really rather lush. They shop with money to burn so their clothes always look shiny and new, but which of the girls are on top form this season?

Skinny Millie Mackintosh loves to show off her body in bodycon styles and short skirts. She recently said to the Mail ‘When I wear a gorgeous outfit to some premiere, I like the idea that I’m being photographed and people will write about it.’ I love her Chanel, or Chanel-esque, jackets and the fact that she always has a fabulous tote on her arm. Plus who can forget the ultimate fashion accessory, her little grey dog Herby, who has been carried everywhere with Millie this series.

Kylie Minogue Berlin

Kylie Minogue might be tiny but she always turns heads. It’s not just because she’s famous, talented and gorgeous although that certainly helps, but she attracts attention with her sense of style. She is one of those ladies who men fancy and women want to be. Whether on stage, or papped on the street, Kylie always looks stylish, so it is no surprise to hear that the pop princess has come out with a fashion book.

The book, called Kylie/Fashion commemorates 25 years of fashion throughout her career, featuring contributions from some of the world-famous designers to have worked with her - from Jean Paul Gaultier to John Galliano. It marks a celebration of a quarter of a century in the music industry. The style tome includes images of many of Kylie’s spectacular stage costumes and outfits she wore for music videos.

"This book charts my relationship with some of the most talented people in fashion throughout my career," explained Kylie. "It makes me very proud to see gathered together all the great designers and houses I've worked with over the years. Looking through my personal archives has been a real trip down memory lane and it is the fashion that brings back moments and memories of the last 25 years."

Which of these do you remember?

·         The white hooded catsuit from the Can't Get You Out Of My Head video

·         Her Ophelia look in the video Where the Wild Roses Grow

·         The skimpy gold Spinning Around hotpants

·         The Grecian-inspired designs from her Aphrodite world tour

Burberry Orchard

There is a new ‘It’ bag for winter ’12 and it’s by Burberry. A brand synonymous with style right now, Burberry can do no wrong. The bag in question is the Burberry Orchard. Emma Stone, Blake Lively and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley are just a few of the celebs who have been spotted with the bag in the last few weeks.

I call it an ‘It’ bag because it is THE handbag everyone wants, but unlike other ‘It’ bags, it isn’t loud or crowded with bling. It is subdued and classic, a beautiful bag that will last for decades. The original style made a catwalk debut at Burberry's autumn/winter 2012 show, and has been updated this season to reflect the brand's evolving style. The Burberry Orchard is very versatile, inspired by vintage luggage that could double up as an overnight bag. A big bag comes with a big price tag, from £995, but even this is cheaper than some designer bags of the moment.

The Orchard is available in a range of colours including the classic Burberry check, and then there is the check jacquard version (which is decked out with alligator skin) which will set you back a tear-jerking £14,000. Its loosely apple shaped with short tote handles and vintage look clasp. It has been featured on countless blogs and last week was mentioned on GMTV. It is the perfect day bag, roomy enough for all your things yet effortlessly chic. Inspired by the countryside, it looks very British, and is clearly catching the hearts of fashion lovers worldwide.

River Island Gold Chain

Nothing Lady Gaga can do can shock anymore. But her latest appearance did show off something quite innovative. The global popstar turned up at Harrods yesterday to launch her new perfume, ‘Fame’ (what else?) with a hand full of gold. I’m not talking about a finger full of rings, but a whole hand full of serious bling.

Gaga’s fingers and wrist were covered in gold jewels, pointy golden fingers spread out like Edward Scissorhands. It wasn’t pretty; in fact I find the pictures oddly disturbing! Fans who waited at the Knightsbridge department store hours on end to catch a glimpse of the star, were disappointed that she didn’t hang around and chat. Perhaps though, she was just worried about shaking their hands.

If you didn’t catch sight of the golden arm, Gaga looked relatively normal. Wearing a clingy black maxi dress with fluted hem, and letting her hair fall loosely over her shoulders. As she left Harrods, she was wearing a furry ensemble – a black furry pom pom dess, matching knee high boots and a massive star on her head.

If you want to take inspiration from this outfit, I would take heed from the black and gold. Embellishment and sparkle we know is big this season. Team a LBD with a bit of bling like this Indian inspired gold hand chain harness by River Island. At £15 it’s an affordable, and wearable, nod to Gaga’s look, adding an exotic touch to any outfit.

Lady Gaga's fans, known as Little Monsters ,held black and gold balloons and sang her hits as they waited for the star, but the singing soon turned to boos as Gaga failed to walk the full length of the carpet and trotted on inside without speaking to her fans.

Red French Sole Pump

Hands up, who’s a fan of The Wizard of Oz? Then put these dates in your diary, because the original Dorothy’s ruby slippers are going to be displayed at the V&A from October 20th until November 18th before being jetted back to the US in time for Thanksgiving. The iconic shoes worn by Judy Garland as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz will be on display as part of the V&A’s Hollywood Costume exhibition.

It is the first time that the shoes will be on display outside America. They are on loan from the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington and unsurprisingly attract millions of visitors each year.  Since filming for The Wizard of Oz wrapped up in 1938, the slippers have remained apart from Dorothy's blue-and-white gingham dress so the exhibition will also be reuniting these two fashion icons.

The original slippers are only available for the opening weeks of the exhibition, so a replica pair will take their place for the duration.  It took V&A senior guest curator Deborah Nadoolman five years to secure the iconic shoes for the exhibition! Rumour has it the shoes were originally silver, but were changed to red to stand out more against the yellow brick road. Dorothy’s red satin shoes feature a modest heel and are covered in red sequins sewn onto fine chiffon, with bows edged with red glass beads.

M&S Nude Shoe

Marks & Spencer are reaping the success of our national love of the Duchess of Cambridge’s style. Last year nude court shoes soared in popularity after Kate stepped out in them more than a few times. Nude in general has become a key fashion trend of the last few seasons, bringing back classic feminine dressing. The Duchess of Cambridge is renowned for favouring her nude LK Bennett court shoes, but M&S have an affordable option.

Marks & Spencer have a style of nude court shoes similar to those loved by the Duchess of Cambridge and they are flying off the shelves.  Since featuring in the new M&S television adverts, the high street store has sold an average of one pair every two minutes over the last week. The shoe is one of Marks & Spencer's best-selling shoe styles of all time.

"Nude court shoes have always been a popular style for us however, their popularity has grown by royal proportions over the last year and even more so since featuring in our September television advert," said Sally Ambrose to Vogue online, head of buying for footwear and accessories at Marks & Spencer. "Although celebrity influence can often be a factor to increased sales the nude court shoe is a classic wardrobe staple that every woman should own."

Betsey Johnson Catwalk

Betsey Johnson’s daughter is launching her own fashion label. Normally, you might think the daughter’s label will be edgier, younger and more fun, but not this time. Betsey Johnson is known for her cute and crazy style, a lover of frills, sequins and girliness, so her daughter, Lulu, actually plans to tone this down for her own line.

That’s not to say it will be boring. The brand, jointly established by Lulu and her best friend Allison McClellen, will be inspired by her mother's line. It will be called Lulu and Allison and "It's definitely going to have a Betsey aesthetic, but we did tone things down and make them more modern," Lulu Johnson told US website Racked.  "It's a line for women who still want to be hip, sexy and cool."

Mother Betsey, has been in the fashion industry since the 1960s. She formed the Betsey Johnson label in 1978 and it’s still going strong. I have one of the label’s necklaces – featuring a bunny, mittens and pink pom-poms it is a perfect example of Johnson’s exuberant style. Based in New York she started out designing for a clothing boutique in 1965. Betsey designs clothing, shoes, handbags, accessories and perfume, available globally. Prices fall into the low designer bracket, affordable kooky fashion.

Betsey and Lulu will also star in a new US reality television show on the Style Network due to air next year. The show documents their lives in fashion and is a must-see for fashion lovers. Betsey celebrated her 70th birthday this year, and is a great-grandmother as Lulu has her own daughter, Layla. Watch this space for a Lulu and Allison first look.

Beulah Dress

Last week the Duchess of Cambridge made her first trip to a mosque in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur. To respect religious protocol, the Duchess wore a draped headscarf and elegant white silk dress by ethical fashion label Beulah London. Kate looked stunning in the gown which has long sleeves, knee length lightweight skirt and button up detail on the front. The dress will be available to buy at Harvey Nichols from 20th October and costs £540.

So it costs money to copy Kate, but this is money that does good. Beulah London employs women who have been the victim of trafficking, been widowed or contracted HIV. The brand launched in 2011, helping provide a sustainable livelihood to those that have come out of sex trafficking. Its origins go back to 2009 however, when founders Lavinia Brennan and Lady Natasha Rufus Issacs had a life transforming opportunity to work in Atulya, an aftercare home in Delhi slums. Neither had training in fashion, but hit on an idea of launching an ethical fashion label with a transparent supply chain, raising awareness of these issues.

Beulah creates beautiful clothing with an ethical agenda. They specialise in dresses currently, but also have tops, skirts, trousers and accessories. Perfect for weddings and Christmas parties, they offer glamour and timeless style.

Gucci AW12/13

Italian fashion house Gucci will be designing the stage outfits for Florence Welch to wear for her upcoming Florence + The Machine Ceremonials world tour. Red-haired siren Welch has long been a fan of Gucci’s glamorous style with the luxury fashion house dressing her for the 2011 North American tour.

Details have yet to be announced on how many outfit changes Welch will have and what the designs will look like but they are sure to be stunning if the sketch made available to Vogue is anything to go by - a full length lace black pleated gown with beaded embellishment. Welch really suits a dramatic look with her long limbs and fiery hair.

The wardrobe will be custom-designed by Gucci creative director Frida Giannini so a fully bespoke style is on offer. "I was immediately drawn to the drama of the autumn/winter 2012-13, collection when I first saw it on the catwalk," said Welch. "I am so grateful to Frida and feel very fortunate to be collaborating with Gucci once again."

The AW12/13 Gucci collection shown on the catwalk was dark, yet romantic. Models walked on a plush plum carpet and burgundy, black and navy dominated the show. Sheer black blouses teamed with textured velvet skirts, purple jacquard suits belted tightly at the waist and huge fur coats teamed with patent leather riding boots.

Ikea Wardrobe

This story caught my eye ‘Tinie Tempah’s Wardrobe Overhaul’. According to Vogue, the popstar and all round style lover Tinie Tempah is having a massive wardrobe installed in his new home. Double the size of his current wardrobe, the new set-up should just about accommodate his growing clothing collection.

The reason it caught my eye is because I have been wardrobe shopping today. I’m moving into a new flat of my very own and of all the furniture shopping I need to do, I’m most concerned with housing my clothes. Unfortunately, I could well imagine Tinie Tempah’s wardrobe to be not much smaller than my entire flat but ho-hum.

Tinie Tempah is looking dapper! At the GQ Men of the Year Awards Tempah wore a stylish Tom Ford tux. He was named Solo Artist of the Year at the annual men's magazine award ceremony. He has his own clothing label called Disturbing London, which is stocked in Selfridges. Unlike me, he has a lot of money to spend on clothes and so it’s no surprise that he has a growing collection.

I on the other hand, have to downsize my collection. This doesn’t mean I’m going to get rid of things, more that I need to be more organised. I will select a capsule wardrobe each season, and put other clothes in the loft or under the bed. I’m hoping this will make it easier to build outfits and I can at least go and dig out other garments if needed. I will line my drawers with voile fabric to avoid snagging and make little lavender pillows to make my clothes smell beautiful.

River Island Tee

Hilary Duff has been photographed looking very glam at a party thrown to celebrate the launch of upcoming sitcom The Mindy Project. The American actress, singer, songwriter and author has been off the radar of late having given birth to her son just five months ago. Aged 24, Duff is a married, settled mother and these latest pics show that she is of course a yummy one.

Duff worked hard to lose her baby weight which has proved hard to shift for the pint sized star. She showed up at the Hollywood party however looking fabulous in black leather trousers and a two-tone black top. Hilary Duff has always aced the rock and roll vibe, even with her sweet American teen style. Her skin tight black leather trousers were teamed with black stilettos, black clutch and chunky gem jewellery. Her two-tone top was loose fitting and flatteringly covered her shoulders.

Earlier in the day Duff was spotted in cobalt blue stretch jeans and a grey/blue tee. With her hair scrapped back, sunglasses and a Louis Vuitton tote bag ensured she still looked a million dollars. Her husband followed carrying the baby. Days before Duff was out in more jeans, this time classic indigo teamed with a casual vest and mustard yellow blazer.  She accessorised with a Chanel handbag and green heels.

The Duchess of Cambridge

I’m not a major one for apps. There are just so many of them. This is bound to do well though, and has certainly caught the attention of the press. An app which tells you exactly what the Duchess of Cambridge, aka Kate Middleton, was wearing for particular events and where you can get the same look.

The Duchess of Cambridge has always had her clothing choices studied, photographed, copied and usually, praised. She loves and is regularly papped in Whistles, Hobbs and Issa. She exudes elegance and grace and always knows how to dress appropriately. You certainly won’t find her with her top off in Vegas. Kate Middleton blogs cropped up showcasing her latest outfits by and for fans. Now however, you can get all the latest trend news from the Duchess of Cambridge straight to your phone, for 69p.

The fashion app of the princess was created by 28-year-old Helen Barclay, a former actress used to the limelight. It costs less than a £1 and reveals exactly what Catherine was wearing at any particular event, the designer or store it came from, and where the pieces can be purchased where ever possible.

"She mixes high street with designer so you can find a lot of the things she wears in shops such as Reiss and Zara," Barclay told The Daily Mail. "I spend a lot of my time trawling fashion websites and looking at the designers' shows online so that I can identify her pieces. I also follow a lot of fashion writers on Twitter so I know what Kate will be wearing when she next appears."

Trinny and Susannah QVC

Bring back What Not to Wear! That’s what I say, and not the latest attempt at clinging onto the TV styling show, but the proper original show with none other than Trinny and Susannah. The dynamic duo entertained us for years as they grabbed bottoms and pushed up boobs in a bid to make women look better with a new wardrobe, hair, make-up and a dash of confidence. They were doing their job long before Gok Wan, yet he’s the biggest stylist to hit the box. Of course they did other things too – a column in The Daily Telegraph, the show Trinny and Susannah Undress - but they did five series’ of What Not to Wear and that will always be what they are best known for.

Although we are unlikely to see Trinny and Susannah back on TV anytime soon, there are numerous ways in which we can get our fix. Flick through the What Not to Wear book series for example, full of super stylish tips, and probably in an Oxfam bookshop near you. Or take their advice in the form of clothing designed by the pair.

Now, Trinny and Susannah have just launched a clothing range on QVC. Ranging from £48 to £150, the collection includes a sophisticated selection of dresses, jackets, skirts and blouses in both print and block colours. All will be available in a wide range of sizes to suit three main body types: top heavy, bottom heavy or those who wish to minimise their tummies!  Dressing to suit your body shape? We wouldn’t expect anything less. The range has hidden panels, clever tailoring and streamlined shapes to flatter and compliment every figure. 

The collection launched last Sunday and Trinny & Susannah appear on-air themselves alongside real QVC customers to demonstrate the key benefits of each item from the range. Worth tuning in for the tips!

Orphan Arms Tee

This weekend, and what a scorcher of one it is, everyone is talking about V Festival. Unlike the washout that was Isle of Wight Festival, V Fest has been hot, hot, hot so we would forgive attendees for wearing as little as possible. Countless denim cut-off shorts have been on show, plus cropped tees, graphic printed vests and tie front blouses. Sunglasses and sunhats were festival essentials.

Of all of the stars the lovely Pixie Lott attracted a lot of attention for her stage outfit. The 21-year old wore a jewelled leotard and mini skirt on stage in Staffordshire this afternoon, for the hottest day of the year. Always able to pull off an eclectic look, Pixie looked very cool in her fifties style bejewelled black leotard teamed with textured light mini skirt and sparkly red brogues. She accessorised with a pendant necklace and round sunglasses.

Tinie Tempah gave into the heat and went for a casual shorts and stripy vest combo one day and white tee and polka dot shorts the next. Ex-factor judge and former N-Dubz singer Tulisa wore a pink short-sleeved jacket, polka-dot corset and patterned trousers as she performed solo material, including her new single Live It Up. The crazy trousers featured cartoon prints. In contrast, Rita Ora didn’t go as crazy as she sometimes does. She came on stage in a bright blue dress with plunging neckline and red tassels, almost of a rubber texture – ok perhaps it was quite out there.

Helena Christensen for Boden

Model Helena Christensen is the new face of Boden for AW12/13 but can she vamp up the sex-appeal of the label traditionally targeted at middle-class middle-aged women? Normally used to showing off her body, having launched a capsule underwear collection for Triumph at the start of the year, Christensen isn’t the obvious choice for Boden. Yet if they wanted someone to make their clothes look fantastic, they have done the right thing. It’s like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley for M&S, except that combo did very little to help their clothing sales.

Christensen is in fact, 43-years old and has a 12-year old son, although you’d never guess. She also isn’t strapped for cash, so in that sense is the perfect Boden customer. The press pics scream, ‘you too can look as good as a supermodel in your forties’. Justine Tabak, creative director of Boden told the Mail: "Helena epitomises effortless glamour, has her own sense of style - easy, casual, feminine.”

It might sound like I have something against Boden. I really don't. I even have a lilac Boden wool hat which comes out in winter and I’m sure I’ll have more Boden in my wardrobe in ten years’ time (especially if it makes me look like Helena Christensen). At the moment Boden are offering 20% off selected autumn styles, so do they have anything for the youth of today?

Minnies Boutique Dress

The Only Way is Essex stars Billie and Sam Faiers are launching a capsule collection of clothing for young brand Little Mistress. Called ‘Little Mistress by Minnies’ after the girls’ own Essex based fashion boutique, the collection is designed with the Christmas party season in mind. The collection, launching in October, will be housed in a dedicated area of the Minnies Boutique Essex store, as well as sold online at Minnies Boutique and Little Mistress’ respective websites.

The first collection of Little Mistress by Minnies includes three maxi dresses, a chiffon top and a pair of leggings, as well as five party ‘silhouettes’. Sisters Billie and Sam Faiers found fame on the hit reality TV show The Only Way is Essex. Sam is a former glamour model and owns Minnies Boutique on Brentwood High Street which she set up with Billie last year (with the help of their mum!). No stranger to the limelight, both sisters love a bit of glamour and their fashion store and new capsule collection certainly reflects this.

Kardashian Kollection

You’ve watched the show ‘Keeping up with the Kardashians’ – now you can get their look at high street prices. The Kardashian sister’s fashion collection ‘Kardashian Kollection’ lands at Dorothy Perkins this autumn 2012 designed by Kim, Khloe and Kourtney.

The stylish trio often find themselves in the public eye after finding fame on the hit U.S. reality show. The most famous sibling, Kim, made a name for herself as a socialite friend of Paris Hilton. She has had a number of high profile romances, acted and put her name to a few fashion projects and fragrances. The three sisters own a clothing boutique D-A-S-H which starred in their reality show too.

With their olive skin and long dark hair, the sisters always look glamorous. It’s no surprise that us Brits would want a bit of that cool LA style. The range is currently sold in the US in department store chain Sears, and comprises denim, accessories, shoes and homeware with prices starting from a very reasonable £15 for a bikini top and around £30 for a miniskirt. On top of around 250 Dorothy Perkins stores nationwide, countries such as Malaysia, Turkey, Thailand and Indonesia will soon be stocking the collection. Global domination!

Fashion Closing Ceremony

At its peak, 26.3 million people in the UK were watching last night’s Olympic Closing Ceremony. Were you one of them? A fantastic musical performance was embellished with a fashion show spectacular. Two years in the making, Vogue Fashion Director Lucinda Chambers helped to put on the display, recruiting a number of top models and designers to the cause.

In case you missed it, British supermodels Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Karen Elson, Stella Tennant, Lily Cole, Jourdan Dunn, Georgia May Jagger, Lily Donaldson and David Gandy took to the biggest runway they have ever walked – the Olympic Stadium. Starting with Nick Knight-shot billboards, the screens were torn down to reveal the models themselves. Working the Union Jack catwalk, models wore Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Christopher Kane, Erdem, Vivienne Westwood and Paul Smith – some of my very favourite designers and so proud to be British! A legion of foot soldiers positioned themselves to form the iconic Alexander McQueen skull shape, in tribute to the most revered British designer of this generation.

The Brits have made such an impact on both music and fashion over the decades that it is fantastic that both were shown off in the much anticipated Closing Ceremony. Christopher Kane speaks to Vogue about his contribution – a striking metallic crystal mesh suit. Using ‘wearable and light’ aluminium, Kane integrated sections of Swarovski crystal mesh, taking at least 80 hours to complete the outfit. He said: “We had to unlink each metal ring and reattach it. It was a really timely process”, now that is craftsmanship.

Vogue Fashion Books

Fashion books are scrummy. There is something very exciting about finding a new or second-hand fashion or textiles read. Full of beautiful photographs of beautiful things, a fashion library is an essential thing for fashion students and style lovers alike. To add to the amazing range already out there, Vogue have launched a whole new fashion series ‘Vogue On…Designers’. And if anyone should tell you about designers, it’s Vogue!

The series starts with four separate tomes, focusing on the iconic Alexander McQueen, Coco Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli and Christian Dior. Written by renowned fashion writers Bronwyn Cosgrave, Judith Watt, Chloe Fox and Charlotte Sinclair (Vogue Talent Contest Winner 2001), the books will document the hugely successful careers of each of its subjects - both through the written word and via a selection of stunning images. Inside you will find photographs taken from Vogue's rich and unique archive of fashion photography by the likes of Mario Testino and Cecil Beaton. They make a great present for a friend, costing a reasonable £15 each, they will be available from mid-September 2012.

Styled to Rock

It is less than two weeks to the launch of Rihanna’s new TV show, Styled to Rock. A style icon all over the world, Rihanna knows a thing or two about fashion.  Styled to Rock will air on Sky Living HD on Tuesday, 14th August and is hosted by fashion designer Henry Holland and Girls Aloud bandmate Nicola Roberts. The pair will team up to search the UK for the country's next big design star. The final winner had their work worn by Rihanna during her performance at London's Wireless Festival in July!

So you might have seen the outfit, although the TV series has yet to start. Rihanna works as executive producer for the show and makes regular appearances throughout the series alongside a whole host of super star judges. Katy Perry, Cheryl Cole, Pixie Lott and The Scissor Sisters are confirmed to appear as one-off mentors whilst The Saturdays, Rizzle Kicks, Little Mix, Katy B, Tynchy Stryder and Little Boots are all guest judges.

Each guest star takes centre stage in their own episode, setting the contestants the challenge of creating a one-off outfit for them based on their specific requirements and instructions. Cheryl and co will then hand-pick their favourite design, which they will wear at a public event. One contestant will leave the show every week, battling it out to design Rihanna’s stage costume. Designing for the woman who could literally have anything from any fashion house in the world if she wanted it must be tough. Rihanna herself has recently taken on a design role, creating a range of River Island.

Kelly Holmes for Tesco

The Olympics are off to a flying start having gripped the world with the UK’s tremendous opening ceremony on Friday. If however, the Games don’t inspire you to take up sport yourself and you’d rather get comfy on the sofa, Dame Kelly Holmes can provide the ultimate lounge wardrobe via Tesco. Yes, superstore Tesco has collaborated with Double Olympic Champion Dame Kelly Holmes to design a range of loungewear and leisure clothing that is perfect for rest days.

Using a flattering colour palette of purple and grey, the collection is both wearable and very affordable. Kelly Holmes had already previously collaborated with Tesco on a fitness clothing range launched last December, and in its second collection, so the loungewear range marks the perfect accompaniment. Priced between £8 and £14, the nine piece collection includes yoga pants, loose fit vests, round neck t-shirts and zip-through hoodies.  All of the items come in a soft jersey fabric and have been specially designed for maximum comfort; perfect for watching the Olympics from the comfort of your sofa.
 

NW3 Annabel Dress

The Duchess of Cambridge has been spotted in a reduced Hobbs dress. Kate’s ‘Wessex’ dress cost £35 in the sale at Hobbs (I imagine it was £80 to £100 originally) and she wore it to attend the launch of a new sports project in south east London which aims to train the next generation of sports coaches. Getting stuck-in playing table tennis, Kate looks lovely as usual and the bargain high street find is a great shape. Cap sleeved with a wide neckline and nipped in waist, it made me want to check out what else is in store at Hobbs.

Hobbs is a mid to upper market high street chain, aimed at if not at the more mature woman, then the working woman at least. Currently offering up to 70% off in the summer sale now is the time to stock up on some classic, sophisticated pieces. NW3 is their younger, fashion forward brand. According to Hobbs, NW3 styling is ‘young and easy to wear with an off-centre, eclectic, free-spirited vibe and attitude’.

Supra Women's High Top

Traditionally a men’s skateboarding footwear brand, Supra have branched out to women’s footwear after seeing an unmet demand for female versions of their shoes. Celebrity fans such as Heidi Klum, Rihanna and Chloe Grace Moretz have all resorted to wearing men’s Supra in the past, hence a supply of ladies versions is obviously needed.

Supra is a brand with attitude. Street wise and forever cool; Supra is a casual and youthful footwear brand. Their first foray into women’s footwear is in collaboration with trendy eyewear brand A-Morir (also loved by celebs). They created a limited edition, sequin covered high top. Yes – a sequin covered high top! Glamour meets street like you’ve never seen before. The black women’s sequin high top with white sole cost £75.

Supra approached A-Morir because they believe that the eyewear brand embodies the spirit of the Supra female – independent, fun, fashion forward and fierce. Founded in 2008, A-Morir features hand embellished eyewear created by designer Kerin Rose Weinberg, and is a favourite among fashion’s biggest trendsetters. Beautifully and elaborately crafted, the label produces bling eyewear. A great match then with trendy Supra.

Supra for women will feature many of the classic men’s styles but in new colourways and materials including sequins, glitter, animal print, foil and metallic embroidery. Sizes range from a tiny 2.5 to 7.5. Wear yours with skinny jeans and a slogan tee, or denim mini and vintage sweatshirt. They are guaranteed to generate as much attention as a Gucci heel and they need just as much care taken not to scruff them up.

Christopher Ciccone, image Fergus Greer

Whether you love her or not, Madonna has had a great influence on fashion over the years. From 80s get-up in her first music videos to the whip-cracking dominatrix star on stage for her The Girlie Show World Tour, Madonna has long been a style icon. The question is, does her little brother have such a style influence? We will soon find out as he launches his debut footwear line.

Christopher Ciccone is a creative sort, predominantly known for his artwork, interior and furniture design. He also wrote best-selling book ‘Life With My Sister Madonna’ and acted as his famous sibling's creative director on her Blond Ambition and Girlie Show. He also frequently contributes as a writer for Interview and Icon magazines. Ciccone’s debut footwear range will launch with a presentation at London Fashion Week in September, before being shown in Paris, Prague, Toronto, New York, Miami and Los Angeles.

Following a deal with Czechoslovakian shoe company Novesta nearly a year ago, Ciccone became inspired by classic Hollywood stars and the work of American artist Georgia O' Keefe. The collection includes styles for men, women and children and will comprise a mixture of traditional styles made using modern materials. There are plans to develop the venture into a whole new lifestyle range, although I imagine that hinges on the success of the first collection.

Max Studio Fall 2012

Pretty stunning picture isn’t it? It is one of a number of beautiful brand new campaign images for Max Studio, shot at Leon Max’s headquarters in the fabulous stately home Easton Neston, in England. Models Erin O’Connor and Katia Elizarova have been named as the faces of luxury brand Leon Max’s AW12 campaign – pretty pictures that will be cropping up in your favourite glossy mag over the coming months.

Erin O’Connor joins Max Studio’s brand ambassador Katia Elizarova, who fronted Leon Max’s SS12 campaign, to showcase the fashion house’s latest collection in a shoot styled by Ame Austin and shot by Phillip Dixon. Katia Elizarova commented: “The Leon Max Autumn/Winter collection is the perfect balance of tailoring and style. Elegant designs accentuate femininity and form and there is something for any occasion. The lace effect dresses that were showcased recently at London’s Serpentine Gallery Summer Party are a must-have, and I’m really excited about this season’s looks. It was fantastic to work with Erin O’Connor to bring the beautiful designs of Leon Max to life, and I am very proud to front the campaign alongside someone so talented and beautiful.”

Leon Max is a Russian-born American fashion designer who has recently been encroaching on Europe. The designer founded Max Studio in 1979 as an up-market fashion range sold through department stores and an increasing number of standalone stores. Max Studio recently opened its European flagship store in the UK, based in London’s fashionable Notting Hill. Cocktail dresses cost around the £200 mark with longer gowns costing up to £350. The brand fills a gap in the market for luxury fashion at an affordable price tag. Shop online now for countless sale bargains offering even better value for money.

Holmes & Yang

Katie Holmes is all over the press at the moment. Not for her latest film, or fashion line, but for her announced divorce from Tom Cruise. I however, would like to divert attention from her love life back to her fashion label, Holmes & Yang, which launched in 2009 and this autumn will showcase its debut at New York Fashion Week.

Holmes & Yang, established by the actress and friends, stylist Jeanne Yang and businesswoman Heather McQuarrie, is set to hold a presentation at New York Fashion Week in September. The small clothing label is stocked in Barneys, Harvey Nichols and the Montaigne Market in Paris. The label isn’t cheap, you have to be something of a celeb to afford many of their chic pieces. Holmes & Yang create luxury basics, aiming to appeal to everyone from "rock stars to heads of state" - as Holmes told Vogue last summer. The design team specialise in wearable day-to-night pieces, with an emphasis on craftsmanship – attention to detail is key.

Spice Girls in the Nineties

Will a girl band ever beat the Spice Girls? They were an icon of the nineties, all crop tops and platform trainers. Women of my generation almost universally set up a Spice Girl tribute act at some point (I was Ginger Spice), we bought the CDs, posters, DVDs and stickers. Soon however, we will be able to buy the fashion too and I’m not talking about lookalike style, but the actual real deal.

The Spice Girls have announced an intention to auction off some of their most famous outfits. Geri Halliwell, Mel B, Mel C, Victoria Beckham and Emma Bunton have made the united decision to sell some of their old costumes to raise money for Save the Children and Children in Need. The nineties wardrobe auction is sure to generate plenty of cash for the two charities, but the girls can’t bear to get rid of everything.

According to the Daily Mirror, Victoria will be auctioning off some of her black PVC and leather dresses but will also keep some of her outfits for her baby daughter Harper. “I’ve got all my costumes still. I can’t wait for Harper to grow a little so she can have some,” the singer-turned-designer said, “but the rest I’d like to put up for charity, I think it would be a fantastic thing to do. Everything we did at the time was great, it really was great.”

It was great; we all loved you for it. Looking at the pictures now though, it’s funny how fashion changes. That said, nineties is experiencing a revival. I recently blogged about how to wear cycling shorts and other trends which have had a come-back include crop tops, leggings, and oversized tees. Trends to leave in the nineties? Make that platform trainers and culottes.