style Archives - Page 4 of 14

bloomzy / June 19, 2016

It’s Graduate Fashion Week, Darling

Graduate Fashion Week 2016 | The University of Northampton – Tiffany Ruff

There’s something special about graduate fashion week. Maybe it’s the buzz surrounding up and coming designers. Maybe it’s the innovative use of cuts and fabrics. Or the innocence and naivety that comes from not being a fully fledged member of the industry…yet. I like to think it’s a mixture of all of these, and more. This year Weleda invited me to attend, as well as watch The University of Northampton’s catwalk show.

Why Weleda?

So why was I a guest of Weleda? Unless you’ve been living under a rock, I’m sure you’ve all heard of Weleda’s Skin Food. This natural cream has been a staple on the catwalk, and behind the scenes at fashion week for a few good years now. So to celebrate their 90th birthday they invited myself – and several other lovely ladies – along to The University of Northampton’s show, whom they were partnered with. I’ve been using Skin Food (and other Weleda products) for a couple of years now, and it’s always been comforting to know I’m alongside stylish fans such as Alexa Chung and Suki Waterhouse. The holistic natural products promise to offer inspiration to mind, body and soul.

Graduate Fashion Week 2016: Highlights

I live to be inspired, and graduate fashion week is just the place for it. Walking from stall-to-stall, university-to-university, graduates brought forward a variety of materials, textures, cuts, styles and more. I was intrigued by the creativity and imagination that so many designers brought to the show. The judges had a tough time on their hands this year. And whereas I would love to say everyone was a winner, I of course had favourites.

The University of Northampton – Alice Chambers
Manchester Salford University – Adeel Kaiser Ali
Nottingham Trent University – Chloe Jackson
The University of Northampton – Laura Budryte

I wish I had space to write more names, but I would be here forever. All I know is I’ll be keeping my eyes on the designers I came across at Graduate Fashion Week 2016, and crossing my fingers that I’ll be able to buy their pieces one day.

Check out my previous fashion posts here.

bloomzy / June 13, 2016

Mori Gal | Style (OOTD)

T-shirt: Delores Daywear | Trousers: New Look | Sneakers: Comme des Garcon x Converse | Sunglasses: Playn*

I’ve always been fascinated with nature. As a child I would beg my parents to let me explore woodlands, or dip my toes in a babbling brook. Whether it’s plants, animals, fractals…well, you get my point. Of course lifestyle choices often transfer over to personal style. That’s why I love the idea of the Mori Gal fashion trend so much.

But you’re not a Mori Gal?!

The first time I fell in love with the style and concept was with the character Shizuru Satonaka in Tada, Kimi wo Aishiteru. Mori Gal literally translates to Forest Girl. This fashion subculture originates in Japan, and often features earthy tones, natural fabrics, and loose fitting clothes. The style itself has never really found a foothold in my own wardrobe. Loosely permed hair (natural waves), and always carrying a camera around is about as close as it gets for me. Still, I find the concept incredibly romantic. Being more ethical in your fashion choices. Slowing down your daily life. Spending more time with nature.

True, I may not embody mori gal, but I can be inspired by it. I can be reminded of it; in my love for nature, quality fabrics, and ethical clothing choices. At the end of the day, mori gal is supposed to be whimsical. And we all deserve to have a little whimsy in our lives.

If you like the idea of MG, you can find out more and how-to with “Mori Gal Rules“.

Check out my previous style posts here.
Thanks to V.A (Chopstickpanorama) for the photos of me.

bloomzy / June 6, 2016

A Love Affair with Italian Leather Shoes | Style

A Love Affair with Italian Leather Shoes | Sandals by Lorena Paggi*

My press trip to Italy last October was something I will never forget. Discovering Fermo and the amazing artisan shoemakers of the region was enlightening. Since my visit I’ve definitely gained a new found love for Italian leather shoes, and a variety of new designers.

Italian Leather Shoes: Lorena Paggi SS16

One of the designers I visited during my trip to Italy was Lorena Paggi. Producing Italian leather shoes, bags and accessories, I fell in love with a pair of their brogues, and that was that. The brand had certainly left an impression on me. So when their Spring/Summer 2016 collection popped up on my Facebook feed I immediately clicked through. Dusky pinks, chunky heels and minimalist looks to name a few. These are stylish sandals with a difference.

Where to find them…

This is the question I asked myself…Lorena Paggi…and every social network possible, after I saw these sandals. The dirty pink shade was so perfect, and so perfectly on trend. The style is very me – minimalist, comfortable, high quality and stylish. You couldn’t ask for better. Lorena Paggi luckily saw my pleas on social media, as I desperately tried to find out where I could buy their new sandals. I can’t wait to wear these in Barcelona at the end of the month. And hopefully in London, but I don’t want to jinx this gorgeous weather just yet.

Unfortunately Lorena Paggi shoes are not available in the UK…yet! However if you happen to be in Italy or Eastern Europe/Russia, you will definitely be in luck. Keep an eye on their Instagram, Facebook and Twitter accounts for more info.

Urban Research in Japan | Style (OOTD)

Tie Waist Top: Urban Research | Trousers: Urban Research | Watch: Timex* | Sneakers: Comme des Garcon

When I visited Japan in March, one thing stood out to me. My personal style was miles away from what it was when I was living in Tokyo. It dawned on me that the stores and areas I once frequented during my time there were now alien to me. For this reason alone, I had resigned myself to the fact that I probably wouldn’t buy any clothes during my visit. However one rainy day, we decided to wander around the Sky Tree Mall – Solomachi. Filled with stores such as Punyus, Loft, and earth, music and ecology; I soon realised I was in good hands.

Urban Research

One store that stood out to me in particular was Urban Research. Sure the name might seem odd to English speakers, but the lifestyle element to the store intrigued me. It reminded me of my favourite London stores, but with a difference. However it was only when I went shopping with Renka that I properly investigated. I ended up picking up an ensemble that felt a little out of my comfort zone. Something I would admire on others, but would maybe be a little nervous to wear myself. Luckily Renka is a great shopping buddy. I knew I could trust her, and when she gushed at how much the outfit suited me I decided I had to have it. I had to admit, I felt kinda cool in it. And this is coming from the person who would never have considered wearing a matching two-piece outfit. As you probably guessed, that outfit was the one in this post. I mean, this story would have been entirely pointless otherwise, right?

Check out my previous style posts here.
Thanks to V.A (Chopstickpanorama) for the photos of me.

bloomzy / May 19, 2016

My Spring Colour Palette | Style

My Spring Colour Palette | SS16

Now I’m not one to follow trends, but every so often something comes around that fits into my personal style like a glove. In 2014 it was dip-dyed hair and patterned fabrics. In 2015 it was sleeveless waistcoats and fashion sneakers. This year – in 2016 – it takes the form of a colour palette. Put simply: trending colours in style and interior. Never in my life would I imagine that palette would include pink.

Shock, horror!

Yes I have finally succumb to pink. Growing up I’ve always favoured darker colours and shades, so you can maybe understand my aversion. However SS16 has seen pink come back…with an attitude. Dusky, darker pinks are popping up all over the place. Some have underlying hints of purple, others peach. And I for one love it. This is pink, but not as we know it.

My Spring Colour Palette

Now that we’re over the initial shock of me wearing pink, let’s talk about some the colours I’m loving right now, because it’s not all about the p. Some of the colours I’m loving have carried over from Winter, but the majority are Spring shades. It’s also worth mentioning that I love pairing a lot of these colours together, as they compliment each other pretty well. Anyway, enough chit-chat, let’s look at the colours:

Cream | Antipodes Cleanser*
Pale peach | Premium Magazine #5
Grey | Comme des Garcon Play t-shirt
Blue-grey | Ohgigue iPhone Case
And of course, dusky pink | COS Classic t-shirt

So the big question here is: why does any of this matter? Of course Spring-Summer usually sees people opting for lighter shades, but you know me – the darker the better. Well it’s not earth shattering but it does mark a change in my own personal style.

Check out more of my style posts here.

bloomzy / May 4, 2016

The Nor-Folk Look | Style (OOTD)

Jumper: Nor-Folk | Trousers: New Look | Hat: Blake LDN | Shoes: New Look

The Nor-Folk Look…

In my last style post I talked about The London Look. So in this post it seemed only fitting to return to my roots and discuss the infamous Norfolk Look. Well really there’s not much to discuss. Most people assume Norfolk is full of people dressed in flat caps, Joules gilets and riding boots. That’s great, but in recent years I’ve seen some amazing brands and designers coming from Norfolk, and that excites me a lot.

Finch womenswear are on top of keeping Norwich fashionable, but if I had to choose a brand, hands down it’s Nor-folk. Nor-Folk is a graphic design-led lifestyle brand founded by husband-and-wife graphic designers who reside in Norfolk, UK. Timeless minimalist aesthetics are backed up by the idea that our wardrobes (and lives) should consist of quality over quantity. This is something I thoroughly believe in, and have been working on in my style, and home, for the past few years.

I was so pleased to meet Fiona when I visited Norwich a few months ago. Not only is she incredibly friendly and kind, but her outlook on fashion is so refreshing. We chatted about the use of quality fabrics, interesting cuts, and fair trade. It’s safe to say that my love for Nor-folk was cemented that day. It’s so good to know that the clothes you own are created with such love and care. That’s what the Norfolk look is all about.

Check out my previous style posts here.
Thanks to V.A (Chopstickpanorama) for the photos of me.

bloomzy / April 19, 2016

The London Look | Style (OOTD)

Coat: Topshop | Trousers: New Look | Hat: Blake LDN | Backpack: Sandqvist | Sneakers: Luca Verdi*

The London Look…

What is it? This is a genuine question that someone asked me recently. Ok so they may have been American, and things may have gotten lost in translation…culture-wise anyway. Still a lot of people talk about it. One big beauty brand even has it as their tagline. But what does the London look even mean? Honestly I’m no closer to figuring this out. Some days I think it’s a combination of vintage finds. Others, a minimalist outfit made up of greys, nudes and blacks. Truth be told, I don’t think it is one particular look. But that’s what makes the fashion scene so great in London. It’s a hybrid of tons of different trends, styles and looks.

I like to think of it as a different look for every occasion. But what do you wear for brunch on a rainy London afternoon? Simple! Your favourite new tailored trousers, a chic shirt and sweater combo, and some designer Italian sneakers. That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it!

For me, London is a place where I can dress however I want. Whether it’s smart-casual, ripped jeans, or an evening dress – I can feel like my style is completely my own. I feel secure in what I’m wearing, and I know others feel the same about themselves. That’s something pretty special. Maybe at the heart of it, that’s what “the London look” really is. Its just you, doing you.

Check out my previous style posts here.