Topshop talks; When I met Alexandra Shulman.

Alexandra Shulman, editor-in-chief of British Vogue, author and mother is perhaps one of the most influential editors of today. On 31st January, Oxford Street Topshop held a talk with the icon, where she discussed her book 'Can We Still Be Friends', her career and how to make it in the industry. Naturally, as a budding fashion journalist and someone who essentially wants her job, I went along to see what I could dig out.

The evening started off with Alexandra telling us about her book. Her reason behind writing it now, what it's about, and how she relates to the characters. She said that chose now to write her book because although she'd had the idea for a while, she managed to one day just decide to go for it... Despite the fact that it took her 2 years to complete. 

After answering questions on her novel, Alexandra went on to talk about her career; how she got to where she is, her icons, her failed attempt at working in the music industry... That sort of stuff. She told us that she really didn't want to follow in the foot steps of her parents- both two successful journalists. As someone interested in the music industry, Shulman's first two jobs included her working in that particular field. However, after being fired from both jobs before she'd even been there a year, Shulman resorted to seeking help from a job agency. As she was able to write in shorthand (a skill for journalists- something I am now able to do as well!), she ended up working for a magazine... And surprise, surprise, she actually found she liked it! 13 years later, we found a new editor on the throne of British Vogue; Alexandra Shulman.

The editor claims that when she started working in fashion she 'didn't know the slightest thing about it'. She had no idea that fashion was always 6 months ahead and that there were two major fashion collections showcased each year! Now however, the woman has adapted well and is even the editor of the British Vogue iPad app. She claims there are many aspects to her job, but is always thankful to those who buy the hard copy of the magazine- 'if there was no magazine, there would be no website'. Shulman also offered her insight into the ever evolving digital age, and predicts 'in the future, people will be charging for websites, to be able to see the content'.

'Always trust your own judgment.' This is, according to Shulman, key to being a successful editor. She also said that the 'wonderful thing about Vogue, is that we can experiment a little.' Her job, although it seems fabulous includes 'as much hard work as it does glamour'. Well, I don't think anybody would expect being the editor of THE fashion bible being easy! 

Getting my copy of 'Can We Still Be Friends' signed, and
getting some valuable advice from the iconic
woman!

She then went on to talk a little about the Vogue Festival. She expressed her happiness at its success, and also that she is a big supporter of British designers, claiming 'they're some of the best designers in the world'. As for the new Miss Vogue supplement coming out this June, alongside that month's issue of Vogue, Shulman told us it is a magazine 'for those who fell in love with Vogue at a young age' (essentially under 20 y/o). If it successful, the Vogue team may look into producing Miss Vogue on a regular basis!

After, there was a quick Q&A session between the audience members and Shulman. When asked what item of clothing should every woman own? Her reply was a humorous 'knickers!' So what more can we expect from the editor-in-chief of British Vogue? Well, so far, she is contemplating writing another book... And after the success of 'Can we still be friends?' I for one, cannot wait.

Alexandra Advice; 'You can always change your mind'. 

Marium x

Celestial Couture

Couture fashion week, one of the highlights of the year and the best thing about January, came to a close on Thursday, and after four days of exquisite beauty in the form of a couture gown, I am sad to see the end of it. 

Divine silhouettes, stunning detail and gorgeous colours were just some of the main highlights. I think it would be hard for me to choose a personal favourite show, as every year, I struggle to decide who deserves to be picked out above the rest, but then you realise it isn't a competition. It's not a race for first place at all, more a chance to admire the beauty of the fashion and the creativity of the designs. 

All week I had been keeping up to date with the catwalk shows via the style.com app for iPhone and iPad. It is one of the best apps I have ever downloaded and I'd definitely recommend it!

So, the four fabulous days kicked off with the Versace show on Sunday evening. I will admit, I was a little skeptical as it isn't my favourite ever collection from the Italian brand- they can definitely deliver more. In fact, I preferred Donatella's couture collection from last year when Versace decided to come back to couture after nearly 10 years! However, there were a few pieces that stood out amongst the rest of the designs which caught my eye. As we stepped back into an 80s vibe, the gold ABBA-esque suit was one of my favourites.

Up next was Dior, and Raf Simons did much better with this couture collection than his previous. This collection focused on the traditional silhouettes and the iconic volumised skirts from the Dior archive, in a much more contemporary way. The colour palette consisted of contrasting mints and burnt oranges, which was accompanied by beautiful and intricate embroidery, that all made for the perfect feminine couture collection. 

After Dior, we saw Giambattista Valli, creative couturier. The label's works never seem to fail my expectations, and though I was very much in love with the previous couture collection, I wasn't displeased with this one. The taming of complex shapes, each made to flatter the figure is not an easy talent, yet Valli some how managed to create masterpiece gowns that define the waist and create a ladylike elegance. My personal favourite was the couture take on the onesie: cigarette pants and a bodice with a trail behind it!

Next up, we saw the obvious favourite: Chanel. Now, it seems to me as though Karl has been trying a little too hard in these recent years to bring back archived ideas and fashions, and add a modern twist to them. I can say that I was pleasantly surprised this time around in comparison to my disappointment in the recent years, as Chanel delivered a goth-meets-romance show. The lace detailing on the dresses which indicated a subtle reminder to Miss Havisham's well worn wedding gown, alongside the heavy black makeup and the feather detailing in the hair, all created the perfect enchanted fairytale. The medieval-like peep toe boots worn with the beautiful yet quite sinister creations highlighted the 'Midsummer's Night Dream' feel that Lagerfeld went for. All in all, it was a magical show, with every piece a structured, show stopping design.

Elie Saab, one of my favourite ever designers showcased his gorgeous gowns on the final day. The usual over-embellishing adorned the dresses, which came in a variety of pastel colours, including lavender, baby blue, white and faded red. On the pretty red-carpet-ready creations, we saw lace and sheer fabrics. Not straying too far from his comfort zone, it is safe to say that Elie Saab's couture gowns were pretty, indeed. 

Another one of my favourites from this amazing week, was the Jean Paul Gaultier show, where the designer decided to look to the Middle-East for his inspiration. It definitely took a different turn from the rest of the collections we have seen, but there is no denying that Gaultier's use of bright colours, bold prints and of course, his iconic cone bras, was pretty amazing. The rich and varied pieces included tulle gowns, luxe tuxedos and patchwork trousers, which all made for stunning pieces that I could picture in SATC2 (the film), and every look differed from the previous. Truly, breathtaking. 

Last, but most definitely not least, we saw the beautiful Valentino. A perfect way to end the four days of exquisite beauty, this show did not fail to bring to the catwalk some stunning designs. I would have to say that this show for me, was the happy ending... The cherry on top of the perfectly iced cake, if you like. The princess-esque designs, all light, intricate and feminine, catered to the taste buds of women worldwide. The simple silhouettes with nipped in waists and high necklines echoed the familiar comfort of Valentino's past designs. After four days of celestial couture, I highly doubt it could have been possible to end on a more beautiful note.  

Marium x

Qui est Saint Laurent?

Last year, world known fashion designer Hedi Slimane became the creative director of Saint Laurent Paris, and was quick to rebrand the label by changing the name from 'Yves Saint Laurent' to the aforementioned. Despite all the criticism he received for his decision, he stuck by his choice and claimed that clearly, the history of the brand wasn't well known. 

I for one was a fan who was quite disappointed in the rebranding of the label, as to me, it just 'disrupted' the way of things. Fair enough, Slimane went back through the brands archive, but after having the name 'Yves Saint Laurent' for decades, it kind of seemed pointless to me for him to change it.

Earlier today, whilst browsing the net, I came across an item of clothing that is now a must have in my wardrobe. High Snobiety posted a link to a site where a sweatshirt and t shirt are being sold with the bold caption 'Ain't Laurent without Yves' slashed across it. As I am still not over the rebranding of the label (even though the new name has grown on me), I feel as though this jumper says a lot, and it's a definite staple that brings with it a nostalgic feel, for the old Yves Saint Laurent. 

Marium x

Birthday wish list!

With my birthday just around the corner (8th January- don't forget!), I thought I should do a post on my oh-so-materialistic, designer whore, rich kid from The Hamptons, spoilt brat wish list. These are all things I doubt I will ever get unless I make it to my ultimate career goal of becoming the next Editor of Vogue or a PR for Burberry... 

Dolce & Gabbana Sicily bag, £1855.00

Burberry medium Orchard in grainy leather, £995.00

Alexander McQueen mini dress, £650.00

Alexander Wang iPad case, £365

Charlotte Olympia dolly pumps, £625

Visionaire 37 Vreeland Memos, £200

Dolce & Gabbana belt, £2190.00

And last but not least, Lana Del Rey's face.

Pretty obvious I won't be getting any of this stuff, but you should always remember: A girl can dream.

Marium x

Chanel Métiers d'Art; Paris- Edinburgh

Chanel's Métiers d'Art show is always one of the most anticipated annual catwalk shows, and the most recent display has not disappointed- as per. 

The opulent fashion show came to the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots on the 4th December; dans Edinburgh. Inspired by the great Scots, Karl used this Scottish influence for his latest collection, and it was indeed evident. Red tartan, hints of baroque and an oh- so- slight homage to The Tudor's (in particular Elizabeth I), there is no doubt that this compilation of designs has an appeal of luxe. 

As a fan of historic periods of drama, such as The Tudor years, I loved the references that Karl payed to the royal's and with his use of authentic, traditional Scottish fabrics and colours, he has payed tribute to a beautiful country in such an exquisite way. The use of heavy embellishment which is in sync with the current baroque trend, as well as traditional silhouettes with a modern twist made for a slight gothic feel on the overall collection. 

Cara Delevingne, Edie Campbell and of course, Stella Tennant all strutted their long legs down the catwalk as onlookers such as Poppy Delevigne and Amber Anderson admired from the front row. 

Daphne Groeneveld on the
Paris- Bombay catwalk. 

Despite the beauty from the Scottish inspired fashion extravaganza, I must admit I am still more of a fan of the Pre- SS13 Paris- Bombay show which took place earlier this year. Maybe its due to the fact that I love the modern, high fashion twist on the traditional cultural pakistani dress (which I occasionally have to don), or the use of white, gold and a lot of embellishing appeals to me more than anyone will ever know... Whatever be the reason however, the Paris- Bombay collection will always be one of my favourites from the Chanel couture archive. 

Paying homage to the great Queen Elizabeth I?

Love these pearl drop earrings.

One of my favourite looks; A full length dress complete with a tartan beret. 

Love the detail 'CC' on the headpiece!

Stella Tennant wearing an oversized coat with tartan detailing. 

This slight reference to baroque is perfect.

Cara Delevingne.

Edie Campbell, looking as though she is ready to go hunting!

Overall, i'd say that this latest rendition of Chanel's Métiers d'Art was a perfect homage to the traditions and gorgeous fabrics that come from Scotland. I just wonder, did Karl serve haggis at the after party? 

Marium x