Tinker Taylor

Best foot forward

2010-11-26T18:02:00.000Z

New in at Topshop and a total snip at just £70, Tink T just loves these oh-so shiny patent platforms. A fashion fix par excellence ... wear them with chunky knit tights and a long line tunic top for a truly dashing winter look.

www.topshop.com

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

2010-11-26T15:51:00.001Z

... how lovely are your branches? Well these in particular, are pretty damn fabulous actually. Just as you might expect a Galliano Christmas tree to be!

Claridge's have unveiled their second yuletide collaboration with the designer, presenting an 'Under the Sea' inspired offering, resplendent with giant seahorses, colourful jellyfish, silver leaves and glistening coral.

The Christmas tree is open for the public to view until January 5th 2011 at Claridge's Hotel, 49 Brook Street, London W1 (www.claridges.co.uk)

Baby It's Cold Outside

2010-11-22T17:06:00.000Z

Warnings of the big chill are rife, Scandinavian snow storms are a-coming and they're set to stay. So, Yes, it's going to be cold, but on the bright side, think of all those fabulous cosy clothes and accessories we can pile on ...

Centre, Limited Edition Faux Fur Coat, £85, Miss Selfridge. (www.missselfridge.com) Clockwise from top left: Fair Isle scarf £19.99, River Island (www.riverisland.com) Knitted beanie £16, Topshop (www.topshop.com) Cashmere leg warmers £95, Rag & Bone at www.net-a-porter.com. Thermal shorts £6.99, Uniqlo (www.uniqlo.com/uk) 'Wonderland' Boots £270, KG by Kurt Geiger (www.kurtgeiger.com) Gloves £43, Moschino at www.my-wardrobe.com.

Best Dressed - This Week

2010-11-13T13:06:00.001Z

Easily the best dressed starlet of the week was girl de jour, Emma Watson. Stepping out on to the red carpet for the premiere of Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows, Watson was show-stoppingly beautiful in a lace and feather mini dress by Rafael Lopez for Atelier-Mayer, accessorised to perfection with Solange Azagury-Partridge jewellery.

Barbour & Alice Temperley - Pure fashion Gold

2010-11-09T10:44:00.001Z

Classic British heritage brand, Barbour, is hooking up with one of TinkT's all-time, most absolute favourite designers, Alice Temperley, to create a capsule collection of timeless, glamorous classics for Autumn/Winter 2011.

The collection, entitled Barbour Gold Label by Temperley, will take inspiration from Barbour's classic back catalogue of fabrics and designs, and given a Temperley twist to create an undoubtedly feminine and fabulous collection.

Barbour's Managing Director, Steve Buck, says 'Gold Label is new, directional and fresh and we wanted to work with a British designer would could capture this feeling yet still remain true to Barbour's heritage.' Alice Temperley adds 'Launching a premium line with Barbour, one of my favourite British brands, is a perfect fit for Temperley. As we plan to celebrate our tenth anniversary in 2011, this collaboration comes at a significant time for our brand and our customers and offers our customers even more to choose from than ever before.'

Excited? You betcha!

Lanvin for H&M - The highlights

2010-11-03T10:24:00.002Z

Not set to hit the high street until 23rd November, the Lanvin for H&M collaboration, for now, remains just outside our reach. So to whet your fashion whistles, TinkT happily brings you a sneak peek at some of the collections highlights.

Crammed full of Lanvin's signature flourishes, the 48 piece collection is awash with bows and ruffles, while cinched waists, sumptuous satins and antique-ESE lace provides real show stopping glamour. Add in all the fabulous accessories ... shoes, clutches, hosiery et al ... and what Alber Elbaz delivers is a a dazzling array of head turning, heart stopping gems. I'll see you in the queue.

From L-R: Faux fur jacket £79.99. Asymmetric ruffle dress £99.99. Double chain necklace £34.99. Shoes £69.99. Chocolate satin ruffle dress £99.99.

www.hm.com

No way baby?!

2010-11-02T15:24:00.001Z

Now, you may mock .. but this is potentially a very real trend alert ... although not one I'm suggesting you work outside of your own four walls. The adult one piece is fast becoming a the most snuggle-tastic way to while away a wintry (or hungover) Sunday afternoon. Norwegian based OnePiece, are the driving force behind this fabulously kitsch trend, pedalling their acid bright, fleece lined wears from their very recently launched website. Punters thus far include Sadie Frost, Davina McCall and Pixie Geldof ... and quite frankly, I'm not ashamed to admit ... I want one too ... !!!

Prices start from £80 www.onepiece.co.uk

Cream of the Crop

2010-11-02T10:16:00.000Z

It's nice to see Emma Watson finally getting her elfin crop working for her on the cover of the fabulous December issue of Vogue. Out Thursday

Winter Wünderland

2010-11-01T14:11:00.001Z

Take your winter look from cosy to cool with the addition of a few super kitsch alpine delights ...

Clockwise from top left: Knitted Gilet £60, Next. Gloves £8, Jane Norman. Faux fur trapper hat £22, Topshop. Knitted dress £205, Paul Paul Smith at My Wardrobe. Boots £120, ASOS.com. Bag £40, Accessorize. Scarf £39, Jack Wills. Leggings £14, F&F at Tesco.

Main Picture: D&G Fall 2010/11 (Marcio Madeira/FirstView.com)

Kate Moss - The Final Collection

2010-11-01T11:53:00.000Z

The final Kate Moss Topshop collection goes on sale tomorrow (instore and online) bringing to an end a three year partnership between the legendary supermodel and the high streets best loved fashion destination. The collection, as you might expect, is a celebration of Moss's ubiquitous vintage/boho style. Decade de jour, the Seventies, is also heavily referenced in everything from floral and paisley prints to beading, fringing and embellishment. This can also been seen in cutesy Peter Pan collars and maxi skirts and dresses. Some of the the lines early greatest hits also make a reappearance, namely the Pansy print floral tea dress and the backless sequined evening gown.

www.topshop.com

Booty-licious

2010-10-19T11:28:00.000+01:00

Lea boots £160, H by Hudson

Now has come to time to replace old for new. It's out with last seasons boots and in with some fine and dandy, new season offerings. Personally I'm favouring some good old fashioned bovver boots and these are my pair of choice. The H for Hudson Lea boots are a little slice of vintage heaven. The beaten up, aged and washed leather gives them a well worn look as well as making them comfy as sin. Perfect for rocking up a pretty day dress or just worn simply with skinny jeans and an oversized top or tee, these are an everyday boot to die for.

www.hudsonshoes.com

Hermes Pop Ups in LDN

2010-10-19T11:11:00.000+01:00

Joining the Pop Up revolution, Hermes is to set up two temporary London stores in November to celebrate its collaboration with the photographer Matt Irwin. From November 17th to the 25th Hermes will 'pop up' in Shoreditch then head across town, popping up again on the 25th in West London.

Dedicated to selling the labels classic scarves the stores will be branded J'aime mon Carré (I Love my Scarf) and be staffed by experts who are on hand to educate customers in the apparent 'art' of scarf wearing.

Behind the Scenes - Lanvin for H&M campaign

2010-10-14T12:30:00.000+01:00

The hotly anticipated collaboration between the much lauded luxury brand, Lanvin and H&M is but weeks away. Set to launch in UK stores on the 2nd November, H&M have released a teaser for the ad campaign in the form of behind the scenes footage from the shoot. Featuring the model, Natasha Poly, the clothes are pixilated to keep the doubtless divine creations of Alber Elbaz a closely guarded secret till the actual launch.

As is par for the course with all of H&M's recent designer collaborations, you can expect a bun fight of the highest order when the doors fly open on 02 November, however, this may well be one collection worth sharpening your elbows for.

Chrissie Hynde turns Fashion Designer

2010-08-20T15:18:00.000+01:00

Rock n' Roll veteran, Chrissie Hynde is branching out from creating music to produce a line of ethical clothing with her bandmate and on/off boyfriend, JP Jones. The eco-chic range, called Fairground Luck, is firmly pitched at cigarette slim rocky muso types with skinny jeans, beaten tees and faux leather jackets (no animal skins here ... Hynde is a PETA supporter and spokesperson don'tcha know) the order of the day. There's even a pair of Emmylou Harris inspired cowboy boots ... yee ha.

Hynde and Jones have thus far consulted with Todd Oldham and John Bartlett on the collection, who they say 'are in to it,' but with no launch date confirmed TinkT can only ask that you watch this space ...

The Gina Experience

2010-08-19T15:40:00.000+01:00

Luxe shoe brand Gina have unveiled their new online emporium at www.gina.com. Featuring super stylish, show stopping images, the site is no longer just a platform for their delicious shoe offerings. Billed as more of an 'experience' the site is now crammed with detailed information on the heritage of the brand, all the latest Gina news (including sales dates) ... you can even watch their latest cinematic efforts or catch up with their recent press coverage.

For those with the serious intention to spend here, you will be able to click your way to your next Gina purchase as you navigate the various fabric and colourway options before finally viewing your shoe of choice through an intuitive menu of image angles and hi-res zoom options. We are definitely not in Kansas anymore.

Alexa turns designer for Madewell

2010-08-19T14:28:00.000+01:00

Following on from the announcement back in February that fashionista de jour, Alexa Chung, was to take a star turn as guest designer on an exclusive range of clothing for American fashion brand, Madewell, TinkT can now reveal to you a very sizable handful of highlights from the collection

As you might expect from Chung, the collection is heavily vintage inspired and crammed full of graphic, easy to wear separates. From oversized wool jackets to cutesy tea dresses, sheer shirts and skinny jeans, each piece serves as a highly wearable, style staple that would be a welcome addition to any closet.

Sadly for you Brits, Madewell is currently only available stateside, and get this ... they don't even ship internationally! If you would like to protest at this foul indignation then you can email them, entitling your message 'International' and they will keep you updated on developments here.

www.madewell.com

H&M for iPhone

2010-08-19T12:59:00.000+01:00

H&M has gone and got all techie on us, launching their very own iPhone App which puts the high street fashion destination at your very finger tips. The App allows you to browse what's in store now, check out their latest campaigns, get all the hottest news and offers ... you can even find your nearest store, no matter where you are in the world .. now that's some clever shit. And with the 'My H&M' feature you can start your very own payday wishlist and share the looks you love with all your Facebook chums. Best of all ... it's free, so there's plenty of dollar left to dress yourself fabulous ... You can download your very lovely H&M App here.

Vintage Heaven

2010-08-18T16:18:00.001+01:00

There are many ways to spend a sunny day but I can think of none finer than rifling through stall after stall of long forgotten finery and frippery at a good old fashioned flea market. Whether it's fashion or furniture, knick knacks or bric-a-brac that floats your boat, a day spent in vintage heaven is a day well spent in my book.

But of late I have been left a little jaded by my visits to Portobello, Spitalfields and the like. Having become such iconic tourist destinations, an afternoon browse or meander has now turned into the sort of affair that requires one to be in possession of a pair of the very sharpest of elbows and the steeliest of wills.

So having been told that a little slice of vintage heaven existed just a stones throw from the M25 (about 40mins from London) it was with a little skip in my step that I set off, with my lovely Mum, to breathe the fresh air of the South Downs and take in the IACF's Ardingly show in West Sussex.

To my delight, what I found was nothing short of a gargantuan antiques fair set across the sprawling fields and lanes that make up the Ardingly showground. No rumbling Westway overhead, just sky ... and me ... on cloud nine!

I think if I had taken a HGV lorry I could have filled it ten times over with the shabby chic offerings from each and every stall. Eight foot high stacks of antique trunks and suitcases sat alongside the freakishly fabulous, taxidermied delights in their bell jars. Nineteenth century dressers sat neatly with mid century modern classics and all manner of 'brocante' had made its way from the across the channel, including the most wonderful selection of books, comics, roadsigns, industrial lights and lamps et al. Fashion-wise there was the usual glut of questionable furs, a whole host of fabulous Mary Jane's, vintage buttons and bags galore plus many an Abigail's Party style dress.

To say I was truly sold on this particular style of treasure hunting would be an understatement. Never again will I trudge the streets of W11 or EC1 (well maybe not never!) looking for a slice of the retro fabulous as I have found it here, in the rolling hills of the great British countryside.

And not only have I found it here, a little clever TinkT style research has blown this little world of wonder wide open to me. There are quite literally hundreds of these fairs taking place across the UK and Europe, and I for one am getting involved. The first weekend in September will see me and the boy hot it foot it across the channel to partake in the famed La Braderie of Lille. Billed as the biggest flea market in Europe, it is a festival and flea market rolled into one ... Brocante, biere, moules et frites .. happy days!

La Braderie, Lille takes place on 3rd and 4th September 2010.

You got the LOVE

2010-08-18T15:01:00.000+01:00

LOVE magazine gets gorgeous for Issue Four as it gives over the cover to no less than eight of the most heavenly of beauties. With each said to embody female beauty at it's finest we see celebrities as diverse as Agyness Deyn, Gisele Bundchen, Kelly Brook and Lauren Hutton working the camera in a number of different guises. Seeing Deyn as the the Rebel, Hutton's as the Heroine and Rosie Huntington-Whitely as the Siren ... and so on.

While it is rare to consider Kelly Brook, in terms of beauty, in the same thought as, say Bundchen or Miranda Kerr, but it the creative genius of editor Katie Grand that brings them together for this, the Gorgeous Issue, as she says that 'to my mind, each of these women are perfect.'

Issue Four of LOVE magazine is available from 23 August 2010

www.thelovemagazinemagazine.co.uk

Daily News - Tuesday 17 August 2010

2010-08-17T17:14:00.000+01:00

Grazia for Him

Weekly life and style bible, Grazia, is rumoured to be launching a sibling men's title this coming Autumn. Just as Grazia has set itself apart from the more celebrity orientated weeklies, TinkT imagines that any men's version of the magazine will fit much the same format, far removed from other men's weeklies such as Nuts and Zoo. A refreshing change indeed.

Luella puts pen to paper

Returning to her roots as a fashion writer and journalist, the now successful designer, Luella Bartley has penned her very own style notes, 'Luella's Guide to English Fashion.' Exploring all the late, great and oh-so quintessentially English aspects of fashion and style, the book features photos, drawings and recalls key fashion moments from the heritage archives.

Luella's Guide to English Fashion out 14 October 2010.

Roger La Borde's quarter century celebrations

Innovative design and publishing house, Roger La Borde, celebrates 25 years in the industry with a pop up installation at London's Liberty department store. The event will feature the work of many of La Bordes talented and unique illustrators and will also serve as a showcase for their new, limited edition homeware collection, 'Jubilee.'

Hot to Crop

2010-08-09T14:31:00.000+01:00

It's doubtless the 'do' de jour, it's status cemented by Emma Watson's decision to jump on the bandwagon just last week, but the pixie crop is proving to be way more than just a trend. Watson admitted to wanting to cut her hair for ages, adding 'it's the most liberating thing ever.' Or in other words "ta-ta Hermoine." The same can be said of Michelle Williams, moving onwards and upwards from the aftermath of Heath Ledgers death; proving the cut to be a veritable rite of passage for anyone trying to shake the old 'them.'

Where the cut best suits petite, oval shaped faces, that has not stopped Janet Jackson opting for the elfin crop; a style that has left her looking spookily like her brother.

Clockwise from top left: Emma Watson, Carey Mulligan, Renee Zellweger, Janet Jackson, Michelle Williams and Ginnifer Goodwin.

Daily News - Monday 09 August 2010

2010-08-09T12:58:00.002+01:00

Victoria Beckham confirms new handbag collection

Victoria Beckham has confirmed rumours that she is set to launch a collection of luxury handbags. While VB has well earned her fashion credentials with her much lauded clothing range, it is the news that she has collaborated with accessories genius, Katie Hillier, on this collection, that is most exciting. Having worked her magic at Marc Jacobs, Loewe and Luella (to name but a few) the Hillier/Beckham collaboration is certainly one to watch. Expect arm candy of the highest order.

Jimmy Choo up for sale?

Rumours are rife that Jimmy Choo owner, Tamara Mellon is to put the eponymous brand up for sale with an estimated price tag of £500million. Should a sale go ahead it is doubtless that Mellon will go on to other, equally fabulous projects ... watch this space.

Daily News - Thursday 05 August 2010

2010-08-05T11:24:00.000+01:00

Baby news for Lily Allen

Lily Allen has confirmed that she is three months pregnant with her boyfriend, Sam Cooper. The news comes as little surprise, as the 25 year old has often spoken of her wish to 'retire' from music and settle down. The news and break from music will allow Lily to focus on her soon-to-launch vintage clothing venture, Lucy in Disguise, an effort which she is collaborating on with her sister, Sarah Owen.

Megan Fox new face of ...

Former Transformers star and sexpot de jour, Megan Fox, has been named as the new face of Giorgio Armani Cosmetics. The newlywed is firm favourite with the fashion house, not only is she a front row stalwart at their runways shows, Fox also chose to wear a stunning Armani Prive gown for her recent wedding to Brian Austin Green and earlier this she year ousted Victoria Beckham as the face of their lingerie campaign earlier this year. She steals the Cosmetics crown from model of the moment, Lara Stone.

Primark to open second Oxford Street store

Not content with their gargantuan three story, 70,000sq.ft store at the western (Marble Arch) end of Oxford Street, Primark have announced they are to open a second store at the eastern (Tottenham Court Road) end. The 2007 opening of their first Oxford Street store attracted crowds of over 3000 people, queuing from 2am and required no less than fifty security staff to police the amassed hoards of bargain hunters. So we're excited about the new opening then ... ?

John Galliano Exhibition

John Galliano is set to be the subject an exhibition at London's Wapping Project. The exhibition, a showcase of almost forty images taken by London based photographer, Zanna, were taken over a five year period and show the designer to be the theatrical showman who know and love from his on and off the catwalk shenanigans. Creatively entitled 'Zanna and John Galliano' (!) the exhibition will run from November 4th to December 12th 2010. www.thewappingproject.com

Daily News - Tuesday 02 August 2010

2010-08-03T13:22:00.000+01:00

Holly hearts Smythson

Rising star of the British fashion scene, Holly Fulton, has joined forces with luxe stationery brand, Smythson, to deliver a collection of limited edition diaries and notebooks, adorned with illustrations from Fulton's own fair hand. If the sell out success of Erdem's 2009 collaboration with iconic heritage brand is anything to go by, you'll need to be quick to bag one of the babies! Available from October 2010. www.smythson.com

David Beckham turns designer?

While rumours are rife that David Beckham is set to launch his very own menswear collection under the umbrella of wife, VB's, already successful fashion label, Tink T can report that this is not the case. Sources confirm that DB is actually set to launch his own collection of underwear. Wit woo.

Updates to follow ...

Daily News - Friday 09 July 2010

2010-07-09T11:04:00.000+01:00

House of Fraser set date for Biba relaunch

Following on from their acquisition of the iconic Biba brand in November last year, House of Fraser have today set the launch date for the first collection as 8 September 2010. Ten in-store Biba boutiques are planned in addition to a online emporium, mybiba.com. Awash with sixties nostalgia the collection will feature a selection of limited edition maxi dresses, tunic dresses and one very fabulous leopard print maxi coat. All this AND Daisy Lowe as the 'face of' ... should make for crowd pleaser of a collection.

Tesco plans standalone fashion store

Plans are afoot at Tesco to take their F&F fashion brand and launch it into standalone stores, the first of which is planned to open in the heart of London's west end. The F&F stores would be set to rival the like of Primark and New Look. Asda had the same idea back in 2004 when they launched their George brand into standalone stores, they closed this arm of the business in 2008.

Updates to follow ...

Whistle for it

2010-07-08T12:50:00.000+01:00

Anyone who's knows me will know that I have something of a soft spot for Whistles. Invariably as I have got older, I have got wiser (fact!) and I look for something more than the throwaway crap aimed at style hungry, cash poor teens and twenty somethings. And so Whistles has become my fail safe shop of choice. Amazing basics, directional work gear and more than enough sassy stuff for playtime, without any of the silliness or fussiness seen in similarly pitched stores.

If you like it, has become my Topshop. In my twenties I could always rely on Topshop for something, anything ... but then comes the stark realization that in fact, it's not that cheap, it's not that well made and it makes me look like I'm trying to hard to be 'trendy' (read: old)

That Whistles is now under the creative control of former Topshop brand director, Jane Shepherdson is probably no coincidence then. The only difference being the brand and it's established demographic for whom she now waves her magic wand.

Anyway, I digress. What I am really trying to say here, is that have a pretty damn fabulous sale on (70% peeps!) I myself have just picked up some very lovely vintage sunnies, some to-die-for skinnies and a rather lovely acid washed plain white tee. Not earth shattering style news I hear you say? Well no, quite frankly but all I'm saying is, its well worth a look. End of.

Check out the sale by clicking on the Whistles icon here on your very right hand side ...

PS. Today sees the first wave of their fantastical Autumn/Winter collection hit online and instore. Get involved.

Daily News - Thursday 08 July 2010

2010-07-08T10:59:00.000+01:00

Calvin's new poster girl

Zoe Saldana (star of Avatar, Star Trek) has been announced as the new face and body of the Calvin Klein Autumn/Winter underwear campaign. Lending her sublime beauty to the famed all American brand, Saldana finds herself in good company, following in the footsteps of Eva Mendes, Kate Moss and Scarlett Johansson.

Dita takes to the runway

A veteran of the front row at Jean Paul Gaultier's shows, Dita Von Teese yesterday opted to go centre stage as she walked the runway at her friends Autumn/Winter 2010 couture show. But DvT being DvT didn't just walk, she gave a show stopping strip tease to reveal a daring cutaway corset and minuscule matching panties. Other shows of note included Valentino and Elie Saab. For a full run down of the shows visit http://www.style.com/fashionshows/collections/F2010CTR/

Many happy returns

Last night saw the 10th Birthday celebrations of cult online emporium, Net-A-Porter. As you might expect from NaP the whole affair was cool and sophisticated with a bespoke guestlist that saw the company's founder, Natalie Massenet, rub shoulders with Victoria Beckham, Laura Bailey, Ben Grime and Jarvis Cocker and the like.

Updates to follow ...

Azzaro for La Redoute

2010-07-07T17:31:00.000+01:00

Luxury French design house, Azzaro, has exclusively produced a range of chic womenswear for fellow French home shopping company, La Redoute.

The house, now under the artistic direction of Loris Azzaro's protege, Vanessa Seward, has created a capsule collection of signature style separates and accessories with prices starting from £89. Sharply tailored jackets, waistcoats and trousers are juxtaposed with soft cashmere knits, silk tunics and feminine printed day dresses.

Whilst the mainline range is well known for it austere luxury and exuberance this is a collection that is infinitely more wearable and accessible, offering a real slice of Parisian chic at a fraction of the cost. The collection is available from August 2010.

For more details visit www.laredoute.co.uk

From left to right: Lace back cashmere sweater £159. Silk tunic £199. Velvet jacket £199, printed dress £159 & shoes £89.

Madonna living La Dolce Vita

2010-07-07T14:15:00.000+01:00

Following on from her previous appearances, Madonna is back as the face of Dolce and Gabbana in their latest advertising campaign. The black and white images are loaded with Itailan charm and nostalgia and see Madonna in roles ranging from peasant girl to Nonna's girl that play on from the Spring/Summer campaign where she featured as sexy housewife, sweeping floors and pegging up laundry.

Showcasing the designers Autumn/Winter '10/'11 range the signer appears in sharply tailored jackets, corseted tops and lace and leopard print throughout the series of ads, all key looks from the collection.

Photographs Steven Klein

Daily News - Wednesday 07 July 2010

2010-07-07T12:59:00.001+01:00

Leighton Meester and Karl Lagerfeld at yesterday's Chanel couture show

Chanel the highlight of Paris Couture shows

Yesterday saw the unveiling of Chanels' latest Couture collection at Paris's Grand Palais. The front row played host to an wide variety of a-listers from Gossip Girls Leighton Mesester and Blake Lively to Lou Doillon and Natalia Vodianova. Lagerfeld presented a collection full of tweeds, boxy cropped jackets and a selection of embroidered and bejeweled evening wear. Also showing yesterday were Givenchy and Armani Prive

For a full round up from the couture shows visit ...

http://www.style.com/fashionshows/collections/F2010CTR

The only way to travel

London auction house, Christies has announced it will hold an auction of classic and vintage Louis Vuitton luggage on 28 September 2010. The stylish suitcases will range from 19th century examples through to the 1940's. For further details visit http://www.christies.com

Updates to follow ...

Biker Chic

2010-07-06T22:08:00.000+01:00

As we all know there is none more dedicated to fashion than Daphne Guiness. Leaving the Chanel Couture show in Paris, she proves her commitment knows no bounds.

Spotlight on ... Matches

2010-07-06T15:43:00.003+01:00

As far as elegant retail experiences go, there is little to top a visit to a Matches store.

For those unfamiliar with the brand, be in little doubt that everything about Matches is a thing of beauty. From the supremely beautiful designer brands they stock, to the stores themselves, all combine to create was is truly a shining beacon of fashion boutiques.

Since 1990 Matches has been dedicated to offering a fashion retail experience bar none. Placing creativity, personality and attention to detail at the very heart of their brand ethos has brought them not only a loyal customer base but also invited exclusive collaborations with some of the most high profile, international designers including YSL, Diana Von Furstenburg and Helmut Lang.

And all the while they champion established design talent Matches are also nurturing labels of the future, having already introduced us the like of Roksanda Illinic and Joanna Sykes. Providing an opportunity to browse brands such as Azzedine Alaia and Helmut Lang alongside Acne, and Hannah Marshall is perhaps just one of Matches USP's.

The other is perhaps how they choose to showcase these amazing designer brands. The stores themselves, of which there thirteen, have their home in some of London's most exclusive postcodes. From Notting Hill and Marylebone to the suburban enclaves of Richmond Upon Thames and Wimbledon Village, the stores are decadent homages to boutique salons. Think hand sanded parquet flooring, elegant wooden and glass shop furniture and discreet and knowledgeable sales staff and you're there.

As you might expect the online experience is no less unique or personable, none of the exclusivity is lost and there are elements here that such as the blog and lookbooks that make it a truly complete fashion experience.

Current excitement both in store and online is, of course, around the new Autumn/Winter arrivals. Favourites from their new arrivals includes this pleated floral print dress, by 3.1 Phillip Lim and this classic re-issued Chanel 2.55 bag. You too, can compile your very own wish list by simply clicking into the Matches site from the sidebar on the left here on TinkT.

The sale may provide a more realistic option for most of us to pick up a little slice of sartorial heaven. Still in full effect and no less amazing than the new arrivals I suggest you fill your boots. As if justification is required I can share with you that online purchases come sublimely packaged in divine marbled boxes that can double up as stylish storage boxes ... sold!

Find stores and shop online at www.matchesfashion .com

Love the style, love the sound

2010-07-06T10:53:00.002+01:00

Andro quiff, check. Brogues, check. Tux jacket, check. Tailored trousers, check. Seems to me that the beautiful and oh-so stylish Janelle Monáe has worked her way through a checklist of the seasons hottest trends and crow barred each and every one into her the video for her latest track, Tightrope. Featuring Big Boi (Outkast peoples come on!) the sound is as addictive as the styling .... an earworm of the very highest order. One to watch!

It's all too beautiful

2010-07-02T11:06:00.000+01:00

We've seen our fair share of Eva Mendes to be honest. Naked or near nakedness in magazines ranging from from Maxim to Italian Vogue and of course, those Calvin Klein adverts, but in her latest shoot for W Magazine, Mendes flicks the switch, going from out and out sex bomb to sultry screen siren at the hands of renowned fashion photographers Mert and Marcus. The result is collection of, quite frankly, stunning images that exude sex appeal and old school Hollywood glamour in equal part. Bravo.

Read the full article at http://www.wmagazine.com/celebrities/2010/07/eva_mendes

Celine ... See what all the fuss is about

2010-07-02T10:20:00.000+01:00

Daily News - Friday 02 July 2010

2010-07-02T10:19:00.000+01:00

Victoria Beckham for ... Range Rover

Victoria Beckham has been charged with designing the interior of the new Range Rover 'Evoque.' The popstar turned fashion designer is to lend her keen eye and doubtless, expensive taste to transform the interior of the their latest model that was launched last nights Vogue hosted party to celebrate 40 years of the iconic, upmarket car brand.

Celia Birtwell for John Lewis

With collaborations clearly the trend de jour, John Lewis have announced that they are to join forces with the iconic textile designer, Celia Birtwell. Bringing her signature style prints to both home and fashion collections, there is promise that they will be 'bursting with energetic verve and romantic motifs.' New instore for Autumn/Winter, prices start from £14. www.johnlewis.com

Updates to follow ...

A new aesthetic ...

2010-07-01T18:20:00.002+01:00

Images left to right, Celine, Chloe, Prada, Stella McCartney, Dolce and Gabbana

So the sun is finally shining and it may be that we are finally in the throws of summer. But sartorially speaking, it's all about Autumn/Winter, and with the sales finally making room for some new arrivals it's time to look ahead and see what's instore.

One thing that will quickly be come apparent about the coming season, is that Autumn/Winter 10/'11 has the potential to define more than just a seasonal shift as it is achingly apparent that designers across the board have chosen to pare down their design,s ditching any hint of flamboyance and returning to a cleaner, crisper silhouette.

What I mean, quite simply is ... that this is the season of the purist, think grown up clothes for grown up women. Gone are the statement pieces, the overtly embellished, the acid colours and the bold prints. And in their place, chic, luxe separates in muted, neutral tones. Tux jackets, tailored trousers, A-line skirts, silk blouses, funnel necked coats in leather, cashmere et al.

Driving this new wave of minimalism, most notably, was Phoebe Philo in her second collection for Celine. Here each and every piece could be characterized as flattering, simple and sexy, or as Philo herself puts it 'Strong, Powerful, Reduced.'

Championing the look as she was, she was still far from alone in this camp with Stella McCartney, Chloe, Louis Vuitton and Prada offering up collections that channeled the same aesthetic. Even Dolce and Gabbana ditched the frivolity in an effort to reconnect with the female form, and as such delivered a stunning collection of classics.

There is some danger that classic and simple translate into dull and boring however that is
far from true in this instance. None of the excitement has been lost, just the fuss. What you do get is clothes that exude an assured confidence and sexiness that comes, not from gimmicky accents, but from expertly executed tailoring and draping as well as the precision placement of pockets, splits and slashes.

Unsurprisingly this has been a season that has really struck a chord amongst the international fashion press, who have been hanging out for the industry to reconnect with its fundamental values afters, as Sarah Mower puts it ... 'a decade spent sucking up to celebrities and, increasingly, pumping out pseudo luxury made in China.'

Whether or not we can ride this wave of classical modernity into the new season and beyond is anyone's guess, but we have just ten short weeks until the international round of Spring/Summer 2011 shows begin, when we will truly be able to gauge the impact of this tour de force. What is for certain, is that Philo's return to fashion, so far, has been nothing less an epic.

Photos: Chris Moore/www.catwalking.com

Daily News - Thursday 01 July 2010

2010-07-01T11:54:00.000+01:00

H&M launch UK e-commerce site from 9th September 2010.
It's one of my main squeezes' on the high street right now, but as of early Sept the treasures that H&M have to offer will be just a mouse click away. With H&M stores often a mish-mash of offerings (the real gems take some weeding out!) we can only hope that the online store makes this process less of a chore. Roll on September.

Faith goes in-house with Debenhams
Footwear retailer, Faith, will be revived as a concession within selected Debenhams stores giving the brand a second chance after it went into administration back in April this year.

Updates to follow ...

Glastonbury ... it's all about the shorts

2010-06-28T16:25:00.001+01:00

It is by no means a ground breaking look but there's no escaping the fact the denim shorts were the look de jour at this weekends Glastonbury festival.

While most went for your standard blue ripped denims, Kate Moss plumped for belted and black but it was Kate Nash that really struck out there on her own, sporting a pair of button fronted, high waisted shorts in coloured denim.

The style sported at this years festival was, in general, little to write home about. Festival fashion has become such a cliched trend, rolled out annually with little to differentiate it from the last woeful collection of faux band tees, playsuits, chunky belts and daft hats.

One thing that can be said for this micro-trend is that at least it's not as try-hard as trends seen in previous years, for that I guess we should be thankful. Lest the shops now be crammed full of heinous Sienna style belts, Kate-a-like gilets and so on.

The brand new Burberry A/W '10/11 Ad Campaign

2010-06-28T10:53:00.000+01:00

Burberry's Autumn/Winter ad campaign is doubtless, a thing of great beauty. But, as you might expect from the iconic British brand, it is far from standard. Beyond the chiseled cheek bones and pillow lips and you'll find yourself face to face with some of the most hotly tipped talent from the world of fashion music and the arts.

Amongst these great British scenesters, Douglas Booth (owner of those cheekbones) who perhaps most recognizably and recently, played Boy George in BBC2's Worried About the Boy, Gwilym Gold, lead singer from the The Golden Silvers and models Rosie Huntington-Whitley (those lips) and Sam Rollinson to name but just a few.

Showcasing key looks from the Autumn/Winter 2010/2011 collection, from shearling and military to suiting and leather, the main campaign sees the cast of rising stars shoot many a serious, steely look down the lens, leaving you in no doubt that you are truly in the presence of the bold and the beautiful.

Choo Boot 24:7

2010-06-24T13:50:00.001+01:00

There has always been a special place in my heart for Jimmy Choo, but never more so than now, with the launch of their seriously damn fabulous Choo Boot 24:7 collection.

The collection is a stellar line of up of timeless wardrobe staples that can be dressed up or down, worn day or night. From the achingly on-trend 'Alanis' leopard print ankle boots (breathtakingly beautiful) to the more sensible (but no-less chic) flat over the knee 'Ernest' boots and beyond, each and every style is shining example of fashion and function.

By far and away the most kick ass pair in the collection, and my personal favourites, are Biker (lower right image above) and nor am I alone in my deep love of these boots, fellow Biker fans include Kylie, Elle McPherson and even Michelle Obama.

Carrying a price tag of £625, I'm not going to rush and buy them (just yet!) but I must admit if I bought them, I would wear them FOREVER. Hence, I proclaim their goal is achieved, Choo Boots really are the boots we'd want to wear 24:7.

View the full collection and buy online at www.jimmychoo.com

Festival Beauty ... click into it here

2010-06-24T11:46:00.000+01:00

Tinker-Taylor for Belle About Town ...
http://belleabouttown.com/beauty_wellbeing/festival-beauty/

Casa DvF

2010-06-24T10:08:00.000+01:00

Last night saw the unveiling of Diane Von Furstenburg's redesigned rooms and suites at the ever opulent, art deco London landmark, Claridges. Lending her signature prints and bold and bright colours to the iconic hotel, she has also designed a number of original pieces of furniture for the rooms.

Diane was joined at the launch by a stellar cast of celebrities including, Victoria Beckham (who arrived in a Giles Deacon corseted dress and thigh high boots no less) the Russian model, Natalia Vodianova, Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, Jo Wood, Joan Collins, Laura Bailey and er ... Jeremy Clarkson.

If you can't stretch to the price of a suite at Claridges, then perhaps you could look to feather your own nest DvF style with her soon-to-be-launched Home Collection. The line is expected to be available from January 2011 and will include tableware's, bed linen and bathroom accessories. Blending luxury fabrics with bold colours and graphic architectural prints Home Collection is crammed full of must-have statement pieces to treasure.

For more information visit www.dvf.com or www.claridges.co.uk

Victoria's Secret to open London Flagship store ...

2010-06-23T14:38:00.001+01:00

Let me hear a woop woop ... purveyor of super sexy undies and delightfully slouchy lounge gear, Victoria's Secret is setting up shop in our very own London town. Where once a trip across the pond was required to stock up on their famous and quite fantastic garbs, just a little jaunt to London's lovely W1 will now do the trick.

The flagship store will be a gargantuan 16,500 square foot retail space in Mayfair (the corner of Brook Street and New Bond Street to be precise) and will house all the mainline VS collections as well as their ever popular PINK collection.

The store isn't due to open until 2012, but more details are set to be announced in August . In the meanwhile whet your whistle at www.victoriassecret.com.

Beach chic made simple

2010-06-23T11:25:00.005+01:00

Be in no doubt, pared down beach chic is a fine art. Perfect it here.

Central Image: Bikini, £19.50, Hat £25 and bangle £9.50 all from www.marksandspencer.com

Clockwise from top left:
1. Oversized retro-fabulous sunnies, perfect for people watching £175, Balenciaga at www.cruisefashion.co.uk

2. Bored? Switch to analyzing the fictional lives of the characters in the latest book 'I Think I Love You' from best selling author Allison Pearson. £7.14 www.amazon.co.uk

3. A dandy little straw bag, perfect for stashing all your beach essentials. £12, Tu at Sainsburys.co.uk

4. Be good to yourself and spritz, spritz, spritz with Dermalogica Waterprotect Solar Spray SPF30, £29.60 (www.dermalogica.com)

5. For some 'go-with-everything' essentials choose these Skinny silver Havianas, £25 at La Redoute (www.laredoute.co.uk)

6. Cuter than cute candy striped towel, £70, Paul Smith at House of Fraser (www.houseoffraser.co.uk)

7. Do long lazy lunches in this Floral 'flutter' kaftan £30, Accessorize.com

8. Slick and stylish beach hair really does exist. Spray through with this frizz-fighting, humidity blocking hair mist. Zero Humidity Frizz Control Spray, £20, Frederic Fekkai (www.fekkai.com)

New sponsor for London Fashion Week

2010-06-22T13:24:00.000+01:00

Vodafone have been announced as the new title sponsor of London Fashion Weekend and the official sponsor of London Fashion Week.

The London leg of the international fashion melee is an event to behold. The relentless round of catwalks shows, parties and previews are all damn good fun, if not a little knackering!

LFW's worthy new sponsors will be offering a tiny taster of all this fabulosity to their very best customers. The perks include 48 hour advanced access to Fashion Weekend tickets plus the chance to win tickets to shows and previews as part of it's recently launched VIP scheme

To join in visit www.vodafone.co.uk/vip or for more information on London Fashion Week visit www.londonfashionweek.com/

She shoots, she scores

2010-06-21T17:33:00.000+01:00

Coleen Rooney has scored yet another lucrative contract to boost her personal wealth and profile.

This time we see her as the face of home shopping company, Littlewoods.com. In a deal that's rumored to be worth £2million the 24 year old will become the companies 'style ambassador,' featuring in the catalogues giving style advice and tips. Her wisdom truly knows no bounds.

Utah Jazz ... listen if you please

2010-06-18T23:47:00.000+01:00

http://www.myspace.com/utahjazz

Love, love love this
Click, listen, love ... follow

It's a date

2010-06-18T15:09:00.000+01:00

Keeping one step ahead of the increasingly tech savvy fashion pack, Burberry Prorsum are once again planning to bring you footage live and direct from their undoubtedly fabulous Menswear Spring/Summer 2010 Menswear show in Milan.

It's all happening tomorrow (Saturday 19th June) at 2pm (GMT.) Log on to http://live.burberry.com and watch in amazement. Notepads to the ready boys, as you can pre-order outerwear and accessories live from the runway. Now that really is proper good, isn't it.

Festival teaser

2010-06-17T18:06:00.000+01:00

It's a book. It's a new book. Called Grass Stains. A 'novel for the festival generation' no less. You want the lowdown? Of course you do ...

Girl has awesome job on trendy mag

Girl gets invited to lots of parties, goes to said parties and ...

Girl gets shitted on booze and coke every night

Girl shags lots of deeply inappropriate men, shacks up with one twat in particular (even marries him)

Girl realizes she's a bit of twat too and needs to sort her shit out

Girl goes to festival (gets loaded)

Girl meets rather lovely bloke

Girl sorts said shit out, and lives happily ever after

... the end.

Obviously there are bits in-between that make it a pretty good read and I think Grass Stains will appeal to lots of different people on lots of different levels. For me it was crammed with nostalgia (in all fairness, I could have written this book!) but for most this book will simply be about escapism. Yes, it's a bit lightweight and fluffy, but that in turn makes a bit of a page turner. An ideal companion on your daily commute or a sunny day spent on the beach.

£7.99 Vintage Books (www.vintage-books.co.uk)

Top Rankin

2010-06-17T15:08:00.000+01:00

From the Queen to Kylie, Gordon Brown to Ricky Gervais, Rankin has immortalized more than his fair share of big hitters from the land of celebrity and beyond.

His latest exhibition, 'Portraits,' gives an opportunity for you to feast your eyes on some of his finest and most recognisable works, as well as a handful of previously unseen images.

The exhibition runs from 18th June to 18th July 2010 at Annroy Gallery, Kentish Town London. Entrance is gratis peeps so lap it up at no expense.

If you're feeling really rather spoilt at the free-ness of such a fabulous experience then perhaps you will feel inclined to pick up the very lovely coffee-table book that accompanies the exhibition. Portraits costs £40 and is available from bookshops nationwide or to order from www.turnaround-uk.com

Annroy Gallery (Nearest tube: Kentish Town)

110 - 114 Grafton Road

London

NW5 4BA

Opening hours Mon-Fri. 11am - 6pm. Sat & Sun. 12pm - 6pm

Mark Fast for Topshop .. it's a'coming!

2010-06-17T13:45:00.000+01:00

Brace, brace, brace fashion fans. The long awaited Mark Fast for Topshop collection has finally been unveiled. Not only that, tis a mere matter of weeks til you can get your fix. In selected stores (Oxford Circus, Selfridges, Manchester Arcade, Liverpool and online) from 7th July, this tight collection of just five signature-inspired pieces are going go like the lovely little hot cakes they are. Prices from £80 (Asymmetric dress pictured here, £150)

Seriously lacking the X Factor

2010-06-14T18:18:00.000+01:00

Er ... one word NO. Usually too cute and too stylish for words, where the fook did Natalie Imbruglia pull this horror out of? Arriving at the X factor auditions as guest judge, Natalie looked like she'd just ransacked Coast in this v.v average LPD (lil pink dress)

Girl, stick to your divine, too-cool-for-school rock chic look, you work it so well.

Go forth and Glamp!

2010-06-11T14:47:00.000+01:00

It's June. It's pouring with rain. Do the math and what do you get ... Festival Season!

A whole summer (and I use the term loosely) crammed with fantastical, musical weekenders kicks off today with both both Download and the Isle of Wight pulling in the crowds of good times guys and girls.

But do these peeps really know what makes for a festival weekender supreme? They will if they read on, because, my friends, it's all about your outlook. Are you merely camping or, are you ... glamping?

There's a world of difference here, a camper vs a glamper can be told apart a mile off. Campers will be scruffy, unkempt little buggers who whiff a bit. A Glamper, on the other hand are clean, chic and stylish individuals, who are, essentially, an all round treat to the senses.

Now, hands up, which do you want to do camp ... or glamp? I thought so. Needless to say, following the following advice will see you steer you safely towards an altogether more salubrious festival experience.

Glampers DON'T

...smell.

A quick swipe in all the right areas with one of a Skin Wisdom Daily Wipe or such like, will allow you to shamelessly throw your hands in the air all weekend long. (£2.44 for a 25pk from Tesco stores nationwide)

... get sun burnt

While you might think that the chance would be a fine thing you forget how easily you can burn even when there's just a smidge of sun. So get some of this on your lovely self.

Elizabeth Arden's classic and much loved Eight Hour Cream now comes as a Sun Defence for Face SPF50, ticking boxes as both a moisturiser and a sun protectent (£22 from larger Boots stores and selected Department store nationwide)

Ditch the bottled sorts of greasy heavy sun creams and pack these Solar Defense Wipes from cult skin care brand, Dermalogica. SPF15 and crammed full of botanicals and vitamins, these soft towelettes and so handy it hurts (www.dermalogica.com)

... spend hours putting up a tent

Pitching a tent is nobodies idea of fun, least of all a glamper. Pick up this quick pitch tent from www.woolworths.co.uk for a mere £34 and the little winner will pop right up the very instant you let it out of the bag (well sort of) and if you can't figure out how to get it down, it's cheap enough to leave behind.

... get trench foot

Wellies are never going to be the coolest things, but they're kinda cute in their own special way, and these, form Adidas Originals, are about as good as they get. £70 (Stockists: 0870 240 4204)

... do the bedraggled just rained on look

Oh god bless M&S, they've given us this supremely poncho and it's only £9.50. It packs away all little in its own special special bag and will keep the rain off a treat. Does what it says on the tin. What a winner. (Marks & Spencers stores nationwide)

Glampers DO

... have lovely clean locks

Spray a little of Fudges Dry Shampoo through your mane and brush through, simple. It's never going to turn you into Cheryl Cole but if you think more Pixie Lott then you're in the right ballpark. (£9.95, salons nationwide or visit www.fudge.com)

... slumber in style

An oh-so chic (and matchy matchy) sleeping bag and bed roll from Biome Lifestyle will ensure the most stylish sleep to be outside outside of your very own home. Made from organic cotton they are cosy and ethical, get you. (Bed roll, (pictured) £65 and sleeping bag £75 www.biomelifestyle.com)

... look stylish and sassy at all times

A cute dress that you can wear over skinny jeans or leggings (basic essentials, take heed) when the chill sets in. Throw in supremely cute jacket and your capsule wardrobe is complete. (Dress £50 and Jacket £90, both Monsoon Fusion. www.monsoon.co.uk)

... look bright eyed and bushy tailed

Never let your peepers betray your hedonistic tendencies. A quick swipe of this cooling eye serum from Crystal Clear will help to banish dark circles and reduce puffiness whilst firming and toning the skin. Ding ding, round two anyone? (£38 www.crystalclear.co.uk)

Fellas, welcome to the club

2010-06-10T14:55:00.000+01:00

Boys, you just don't know how lucky you're about to get. Beloved ... deeply, deeply beloved online boutique and all round fashion mecca, Net-a-Porter, is finally granting you a pass.

www.mrporter.com will launch in January 2011 so there's still some time to wait yet, but quite frankly, at least it gives you time to start saving ... believe me you'll need to. Expect to be dazzled and delighted with offerings from global designers and niche specialist brands alike. I'm talking Burberry, Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Lanvin, YSL, Margiela, Balmain, Dunhill, Margaret Howell, Rick Owens, John Lobb and MR by Roland Mouret.

Enjoy!

Oh how I love thee Music Tee

2010-06-10T14:37:00.000+01:00

It's music, it's fashion, quite frankly it's a match made in heaven ... or Selfridges to be more accurate. These pretty lovely t-shirts feature album art from the likes of The Plasticines, Mos Def, The Music and Daisy Dares You (pictured.) Each tee has a unique code that then allows you to download your featured artists album. OK, so you could just buy the album and save yourself the cost of the tee (prices start from £55) but where would the fun be in that?

Rocking out to your favourite band while wearing a tee with their name on, that's fun. Doing it in a red vest for example, not so fun ... see?

Music Tees are available as of ... now!! Exclusive to Selfridges or online from www.themusictee.com

Walk the Walk; Talk the Talk

2010-06-09T15:00:00.000+01:00

Gawd bless Regent Street, not only is one of my favourite shopping streets in the whole of London town, it's also flippin' clever. Clever enough to launch it's own iPhone app anyway. Free to download from iTunes, this handy little gadget is designed to guide your ass around the fabulousness that are its shops, bars and boutiques restaurants.

I barely need to tell you that Regent Street is home to some rare, rare retail gems including Armani Exchange, COS, Banana Republic, Anthropologie and perhaps the damn finest examples of H&M and Habitat in all the land. Not to mention the only store capable of making me go weak at the knees, Liberty ... oh how I love thee.

I digress .. the app is launched in celebration of the 2010 London Festival of Architecture that runs from the 18 June to 4 July. Regent Street stores will be getting involved so expect to have times at the countless instore events that will be happening and gaze in wonderment at the 'conceptual' window displays.

For those of you sans iPhone a hard copy of this guide can also be requested from regentstreetonline.com.

Need I say more?

Le Freak? C'est Chic .... Non?

2010-06-09T13:47:00.000+01:00

An assault to the sartorial senses, that’s us Brits apparently. Recently topping a TripAdvisor poll that sees us crowned the worst dressed holidaymakers in Europe. Seemingly the sock and sandal brigade are alive and well.

There’s an element of the truth hurting, but it’s also easily believed, not least because the poll also reveals that 36% of Brits, and I quote, ‘dress more adventurously on holiday.’

Arrrrgggggghhhh! You fools. Dressing in a way that you wouldn’t usually, because you don’t think anyone knows you and such, won’t care what you look like … is, quite frankly, just not true.

I am assuming here, that in ‘dressing more adventurously’ people mean, wearing bright (read: garish) colours, brash prints, daft hats, silly shoes and with particular regard to the ladies; having an overriding penchant for anything metallic .. cos it’s glamorous innit?

I’d like to say that these fashion faux pas are the reserve of a certain age group, but that’s just not true either. Holiday makers in their twenties are just as likely to make these mistakes as those in their forties or fifties.

The crux of the problem lies with our great British weather. Our wardrobes are full of sensible clothes, in sensible colours and in sensible fabrics, all perfect for the grey, chilly days we know so well. So it’s little surprise that when the sun shines, we are clueless as to how to dress.

But we can’t let this be an excuse for losing all sense of style … and dignity to boot. Not least when high street stalwarts, M&S, Debenhams and the like, have really rather exceptional, and highly affordable, summer fashion collections. You only need to look at Twiggy swinging gaily round a palm tree in the latest round of TV ads to know this.

So why, when the high street are coming up with the goods, do we fail so miserably in assembling a stylish holiday wardrobe? How can we train ourselves, not to go potty; let-off-the-leash insane when purchasing and packing for our hols?

First off, and it’s a simple one, don’t simply dig out what you’ve been wearing for the past fours summers. OK, so you may not have worn them to death but they are old. It’s likely they no longer fit, and I’m pretty certain, they’ll no longer be in style.

Which brings me nicely to my next point. If you are only going to wear these things for a few weeks of the year, why embrace a seasonal trend? Buying a few well-chosen classic separates to form the base of your holiday wardrobe, is the way forward here. No spangles, no sequins, no gawdy prints. I’m talking casual, lightweight clothing in neutral colours; a simple safari style dress, linen trousers or shirt. Dull I hear you say? Not so. I challenge you to step inside a Banana Republic, COS or Zara store and not be floored by the wall-to-wall, super-stylish offerings that ooze elegance and sophistication. Tres chic, ce non?

www.bananarepublic.gap.eu

That said, I’m not suggesting you become a piece of walking, talking wallpaper. There are those of us that do like to inject a little seasonal style into our look. For example, the current trend for pretty florals is perfect vaction wear.

Unless this is a look you go for in your everyday life then it’s probably not worth spending too much here. Topshop and New Look have some very pretty separates but if you’re looking for a more grown-up interpretation of the trend then look to French Connection or Whistles here.

Floral dress £95, French Connection (www.frenchconnection.com)

At risk of contradicting myself completely, there is one store that I feel really does deliver on ‘holiday fashion.’ While I cannot emphasise enough the rule, that, if you wouldn’t wear it at home around you’re friends and family, then don’t inflict it on strangers abroad, Monsoon is a brand that really comes into its own with their Spring/Summer collections.

Bea Dress £95, Monsoon (www.monsoon.co.uk)

Picking up on trends left, right and centre, and delivering these in a friendly and amenable way is what they do best. Brights, embellishment, prints … you name it, they’ve done it, and they’ve done it well. So if really you must do faux-Souk chic or channel the Masai Mara, then do so here, but proceed with caution. There is real danger of overstepping the mark and venturing way, way too deep into trend territory, to the point of overkill.

I should make a special and very specific rule for hats. It’s unlikely you will incorporate one into your everyday wardrobe here in Blighty but fair play to you; you want to protect yourself from the sun and avoid the risk of over heating on your hols. Fine. But ask yourself this … is a straw Stetson really for you? Looking good in a hat is difficult for most of us, to say the least. In that respect you should consider a chic headscarf … very Cotes d’Azur don’t you know. Hit up John Lewis, Marks & Spencer and Accessorize for the biggest and best selection of holiday headgear.

And finally to the root of this problem. Footwear. That anyone in this day age might be wearing socks and sandals sends a shudder down my spine, but clearly, this heinous practice is still commonplace amongst a certain fraternity of us holiday-going Brits. I do understand that in teaming together these items, you do so in the pursuit of comfort. However, it is 2010 and footwear technology has come a long way. Comfy sandals are out there, waiting for you to lavish your hard-earned cash on them. Waiting and wishing that you would leave your socks back home where they belong.

Ladies, style and substance can be found in shops such as Shoon and in brands such as Gabor. Guys … same. The classic Birkenstocks and wooden soled Schol sandals are also good alternatives to the badly made and oh-so retro (dare I call them so …) Jesus Creepers.

For the younger, less comfort-concerned traveler, I feel there is nothing to say here. There are thousands upon thousands of chic and affordable pairs of sandals and flips up for grabs. But be warned, sandals and plasters are almost a worse look than sandals and socks.

So there you have it, holiday style rules designed to make us apparently caustic Brits a little easier on the eye when we’re taking our annual vacation. Think more Euro-chic and less Euro-trash, so when in Rome …

Show me the money

2009-12-02T17:07:00.000Z

So Daisy Lowe is the new face of Espirit. Former face of Peacocks, former body of Agent P. OK, so Agent P may be not so naff ... but really, doesn't this just smack of money, money, money.
Supposedly rock royalty (er ... of sorts) the like of D-Lo, Peaches and Pixie et al are all trying so hard to be too-cool-for-school. All sceney with their uber cool, indie rocker arm candy, dirty docker tats & an oh-so kooky dress sense.
But its amazing what the colour of money can do. One quick whiff of the cash & you have their face, their bod to flog whatever you like.
Gone is the sullen face & sarky comments, Peaches is now sweet & adorable for Ultimo's Christmas collection. Pixie for New Look .. er, we thought you were the slightly hip (if not a little weird) one. At least when it just Hollyoaks tartlets, soapbunnies or WAGS there's no intimation that they're trying to be anything other than what they are.
But come on, do the supposedly savvy high street marketeers really thing we buy that shit?