Stars and Stripes

Here is my latest piece for the Manchester Fashion Week all about the Americana trend! Full post can be found on the website as well :)

It seems that fashion will be seeing stars and stripes this coming summer, with key style inspirations being taken from across the pond.  

The eye-catching print trend began to re-emerge last year with the likes of Kate Bosworth sporting sun-faded star print tees from Balmain, and vintage denim print cropped jackets across summer festivals. Then this past Autumn/Winter, we saw Dolce & Gabbana showcasing heavy starry-eyed embellished looks down the catwalk. However this summer, garments and accessories will be embracing all things Americana, with over sized bold printed tees being teamed with ankle grazing black jeans, and statement patterned leotard bases and tank tops with high waisted denim shorts. For the style risk takers amongst you, the chunky heeled Jeffery Campbell boots will definitely kick some American life into any outfit. 

However, its not only at festivals the trend has been taking over, with the trend spotted in multiple street style photos, often with round rimmed sunglasses to complete the look, it goes to show the stars and stripes are not just for the flag. Hints of the print can be found from many brands with missguided.co.uk in particular featuring the print on a range of stylish hotpants. So whether it be a Californian summer style or a grungier street look, re-visit the all American girl look as it takes over this summer.

 

Manchester Fashion Week Bloggers Team!

Today's post is a bearer of VERY good news! I recently applied to become one of Manchester Fashion Week's blogger team, and on Friday I received a lovely surprise in my inbox informing me that I am to be one of the 10 covering the week events this coming April! Happy days indeed!

This year's fashion week will be the first ever to be held in Manchester. Currently, there are only a few details that have been revealed  in terms of who will be showing, and which celebrities will be attending the after parties! So far the likes of Mulberry, Ted Baker, and Missguided (the fashion week's official sponsor) will be showing their spring summer collections, with Caprice and Calum Best showing their personal collections also! I will make sure I post all the pics and info from all the events, shows and afterparties they will be sending me to throughout the week, so stay tuned April 9th-14th!

Photos from my entry 'Trip Down Oldham Street.'

The piece I entered into the competition was my recent post 'Trip down Oldham Street,' which has now been published on the website, Tweeted, and Facebooked, so make my day and give it a like or re-tweet if you see it! The website also will hopefully have more information soon in terms of who's showing, and how to get tickets so make sure you give it a visit!

My Post Link:

http://www.mcrfashionweek.com/a-trip-down-oldham-street.html

 

Ohhhh Zara

I recently can't seem to stop gushing over everything thing I am seeing from Zara. Their spring/summer collection has bought basics back with a triumph. In particular I'm loving their simplistic and classic dresses with a twist of v-stretched or panel cut backs, and fit and flare waists. All teamed with tough little Chelsea boots or peep toe wedges, the effortless and laid back chic is a winner.

The structured over sized blazers and tuxedo collared shirts are also grabbing my attention, with a playful mixture of lace, silks and organzas creating a sensual feminine edge to the boyfriend look. What's not to love!  

 

Gabrielle Aplin; Music Crush

I've always been a big enthusiast in terms of finding new artists and music, and my recent music love has to be the lovely singer/songwriter Gabrielle Aplin.  I first came across her on an itunes free download of the week with the track 'Home', and instantly fell in love with her delicatley soft voice and the equally lovely song. Her EP is currently available on itunes, and I have posted her track Home below, along with a stunning cover of Coldplay's 'Fix You' on BBC's introducing show. Enjoy.

Current Single; Home.

BBC Introducing; Fix You Cover

 

A trip down Oldham Street

Whilst being in Manchester, Oldham Street, Northern Quarter, has become one of my favourite places to wonder around when I've managed to ween myself away from my work. As those of you that may have visited this side of Manchester will know, it's full of vibrant, quirky cafes, music stores and vintage  boutiques, and can offer you an alternative to the bustle of the high street which is just a few minutes walk away. The alternative and artistic feel of the street is embraced very much so with multiple junk shop windows displaying a mish-mash of garments and accessories reflecting numerous eras. A few however show off their enviable creativity featuring simplistic yet eye-catching displays, my personal favourite being Retro Rehab with its statement clock watch display.

For those of you style hunters who are searching for a quick dash fashion fix, I wouldn't recommend this as your top destination. However give  yourself some time to rummage through the vintage treasures you can pick yourself up something that won’t be adorned by every girl on the high street, and not to mention discover some absolute bargains. I managed to find at least a few pairs of nearly-new Converse trainers for £15, which usually would set you back at least £40! My housemate has also been know to barter down the prices a bit, a definite advantage from not shopping in a chain store!

On the other hand though you will find stores like Junk, one of my favourite places for accessories, which will make you open your wallet a bit more for their Made-in-Manchester jewellery. However it's all in the name of sustainable fashion!    

If it's a bit of everything you're after, it's definitely worth popping into Afflecks Palace. Easily comparable to Camden Market with its random pop-up stores and concessions, you'll find anything from fancy dress, vintage sweets, jewellery making to tattoo parlours cased within the multiple floored building. However if you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, pop into one of the many cafes  and make sure you tuck into the tasty homemade cupcakes!