London Collections Mens: The good, the bad and the stylish.

You may find it hugely surprising but I honestly love London Collection Mens just as much as i love women's LFW. And I swear it's not all to do with those beautiful models and their striking bone structure....honest.

No, for me half of a gents appeal is in his dressing, and I confess (reddened face hidden behind hands) to be majorly 'put off' a date if I disapprove of their outfit. And I'm talking sneak out the bathroom window never to see a second date kind of 'put off'. But then I'm sure some see my cloche hat, brogues and fur coat and cringe at the thought of walking alongside a young women trapped in her granny's hey day. Ah the problems us fussy girls face today.

So back to the trends I've spied at the LCM AW14 shows this week. (From the comfort of my sofa unfortunately, work has kept me in the northern hemisphere this time) And I must admit, hand on heart, brownies honour, that I didn't like all I saw. In fact. A lot I seriously hated. If Instagram had a 'I hope to god I never meet a guy in that' button I would have hit it thousands of times.

Maybe I'm too stuck in the past, where men clothed in their Sunday best every day of the week, or maybe I just seriously hate men in 90s over sized trousers, Disneyland ears and heels (no joke- HEELS).

Let's start with...

THE GOOD (oh how I hate the word good.)

It was raining menswear over at Topman, who showcased a palette of black, bright red and a tone between powder blue and dove grey. With a collection of chunky knits, leather and even a transparent  cape, you can bet this high street favourite will be dressing the majority of twenty something men come October. I am however hoping the transparent cape does not make its way into the Liverpool store.

Onto yet more shades of vivid blue and bold red, and a great collection of casual knitwear. At John Smedley, we saw geometric print and bold striped jumpers teamed with matching tonal trousers. The jumpers I like, the matching trousers however may just be a step too far for the average Joe. But against some slim denims, we may be about to push those awful Christmas jumpers out of the wardrobe for good! Oh what a joy!

At fashionistas favourite Paul Smith, we had what looked like a smart simple collection. But on closer inspection I spied the bold tartan and floral patterns running through the suits, the overly wrapped chunky scarves and the camel print which adorn them. An all round pleasant collection in navy, terracotta and grey, but nothing ground breaking here.

Image- VOGUE

Close your eyes, it's time for...

THE BAD (and the ugly.)

Well lets start with my least favourite...then things can only get better hey. Katie Eary what were you thinking?! Hair reminiscent of Prodigy's Keith in their Firestarter days, with frightening Mickey Mouse headgear alongside red (yes, red AGAIN) leopard and cartoon animal prints. It was all very punk meets 90s- and definitely not my cup of tea!

I'm all for androgynous looks, but for me, JW Anderson took it too far this season. Heels?! For men?! And I'm not talking Tom Cruise style stacks, I'm talking platform loafers.Then theres the bag- a rigid bucket bag, that looks more Jack and Jill than a key accessory. And finally, the sleeveless shirts. No. Sorry, but this is just too far for my liking!

Then its back to Mickey Mouse ears over at MAN. Not only ears, but horns too, and mouth guards, teamed with jumpers featuring the classic Disney font. Whatever magic potion their taking, I think I'll pass thanks.

Image- VOGUE

and thankfully...

THE STYLISH 

Gieves and Hawkes unsurprisingly impressed me immensely. But then given working on their store relaunch last year was one of my favourite jobs, I'm not shocked. With a masculine palette of moss and khaki green alongside classic navy, grey and brown in fabrics such as tweed, shearling and cashmere, our men can still look suitably stylish in the colder British months.

Plus with a new eyewear range and a great selection of accessories designer Jason Basmajian has definitely made this 243 year old Saville Row brand proud.

 This season also saw Thomas Pink's LCM debut- and what a debut it was. A mixture of their heritage classic shirts and office wear, with surprising hints of AW key colours teal and tomato red.

Chester Barrie's satin paisley scarfs, midnight blue velvet loafers and teal roll necks also made me sit up and take note, whilst Hardy Amies was another brand I breathed a sigh of fashion relief at. Yet another heritage Saville Row brand showcasing beautifully cut suits, crisp shirts and tailored coats in an array of classic neutrals with accents of cobalt blue and terracotta. The collection was completed with silk pocket squares and classic Grenson shoes.

Finally, we saw cult high street and mums favourite brand Marks and Spencer stamp their thrifty mark on the London fashion scene. With their third Best of British collection, they drew inspiration from Sir David Frost and Sir Michael Caine to create a contemporary range of classic tailoring, luxury cashmere and Prince of Wales check.

Other brands I'd suggest having your beady eyes on when the leaves fall is Duchamp,Hackett, John Lobb, Kent and Curwen and Pringle. 

Image- VOGUE

So if this weeks shows have anything to go by, this Autumn I'll be hanging around the great British High Street, avoiding those who seem to think its 1992, have visited Disneyland and those whose heels are higher than mine. 

It's certainly going to be an interesting one....

LFW SS14 Make-up Trends

As the fashion pack leave London behind and head to the streets of Milan, it's time to look back at which collections inspired us the most, make-up wise.

The week was filled with a variety of looks- bold lips, soft eyes, nude cheeks and everything in-between!

The 1970's was one decade that cropped up in a few shows- Holly Fulton, Temperly, Paul Smith and Jean Pierre Braganza were three of those shows, each inspired by different aspects of the disco days. I for one, will be embracing this look- I would do anything to have been a fly on the wall at Studio 54 in its heyday!

Temperly

At Temperly, Lisa Eldridge created soft Hollywood glamour, with warm apricot shadows buffed seamless around eyes, teamed with a glowing complexion, whilst at Paul Smith and Jean Pierre Braganza artists Petros Petrohilos and Terry Barber sought inspiration from British actress and fashion icon Jane Birkin.
 (It's not just anyone gets a Hermes bag named after them.. )

Jean Pierre Braganza

Soft fluffy lashes and sunkissed freckles were on the agenda at Paul Smith, where Petrohilos created natural looking freckles using MAC Coffee eyeliner and Strut Eyebrow pencil, across the nose and cheek area. At Jean Pierre Bragazna, MACs Make up director, Barber, focused his attention on long, full lashes. 
And lots of them- including a full set of strips on the bottom lashes. The rest of the make up was keep subtle- light gloss on eyes and a nude cream lip. 
The modern 70's vibe is very under-stated, expressing our natural beauty with simple definition around the eyes. An easy trend to follow at home!

Paul Smith

Talking of 70's disco, gold glitter was once again dancing down the catwalk, as it was in New York. At Micheal Van Der Ham make up artist Lauren Parsons created sophisticated glitter eyes, by pressing MAC gold pigment and glitter onto models eyelids, adding subtle definition with a neutral taupe along the socket line. For added drama you could add lots of black liner, kohl on the waterline and mascara, for the ultimate party make-up.

But spring wouldn't be spring without a hint of pastel. At Peter Pilotto make up artists Lucia Pica dressed models lips with an array of matt pastel tones.  If you fancy a change from the traditional pastel pink, why not dip your toes into a lovely lilac? Try wearing with a sun kissed bronzed glow and muted eye make up. Illamasqua have a great range of lip colour's including a selection of mauve tones- I love Lavender shade Liv.



2 weeks down, 2 to go, and I can't wait to see which make-up gems Milan and Paris have in store in us!

LFW SS14 Day 5

IMAGE- VOGUE

It's here. The last day of my beloved London Fashion week. Now we have our SS14 look nearly time to a T, its time to recruit that staple handbag, and who better to turn to than Anya Hindmarch. 

The show's tag line- 'Out Of This World', surely couldn't prepare the guests for the heights Hindmarch would go to introduce this space inspired collection., which included handbags hanging from the ceiling and models taking to the air.

Models, dressed simply in tight, deep coloured dresses, carried a variety of totes and clutches, in shades of soft grey plus bright tones of orange, yellow and blue and python print.

I know which one I have my eyes on!

 (The one in this picture- HINT HINT!)

IMAGE- VOGUE

It would seem inappropriate to miss out on yet another monochrome collection on the last day of LFW- so over we go to Simone Rocha, who only graduated from Central Saint Martins in 2010.

Being the offspring of one of our generations fashion greats, John Rocha, if Simone was feeling the pressure, she certainly didn't buckle.

Stunning pearl detail against bold black fabrics, followed by white crochet, khaki satin, gold brocade and tulle veils, Rocha keep her colour palette simple, but her textures intriguing.

Paired with punk inspired, braided mohawks and bare faced models, Simone is becoming one of the UK's hottest names, without even mentioning that famed surname.

Non profit initiative Fashion East also wowed the crowds today. Established by Lulu Kenndey and Old Truman Brewery in 2000, Fashion East gives emerging designers the chance to show their collections at LFW and offers guidance, support and an bursary. This season Fashion East designers are Ashley Williams, Claire Barrow and  my personal favourite Ryan Lo. Lo's collection featured bunny ears, fox tails and large amount of face paint. Yes, you read that right, and I haven't gone blind or insane.Supported by LOVE Magazine and Dazed and Confused, Lo's collections are known for their romanticized fantasy feel. This collection consisted of stripes and lace in a palette of candy colours, perfect to team with that new Burberry Prorsum candy trench.

IMAGE- VOGUE

Last, but my very means least, it's Meadham Kirchhoff, who always have the ability of making me sit bolt up right and take notice. But, being the scaredy cat I am, I'm quite glad I wasn't sat listening to the horror movie music which accompanied today's show. 

With models sporting bright orange and white blonde wigs, styled in tight ringlets, with the crown section pinned back, the feel was a cross between the Highway Man and Little House on the Prairie. The set design again evoking a spooky atmosphere- a black and white garden , with red and cream roses framing the runway itself.
Dresses with front apron detail, knee high socks and handbags featuring children's book characters, all completed the child-like feel. Once again we saw lots of monochrome, python print, checks and flashes of bright yellow and orange. 
But whether I'll be brave enough to take inpsiration from this collection, time will only tell.

IMAGE- VOGUE

So, lets skip this dull miserable Winter and jump straight to Spring Summer shall we?!

LFW SS14 Day 4

IMAGE- FASHION SCOUT

The penultimate day of London fashion week has arrived, amongst a flood worthy amount of rain. Or were they my tears? From what sat in my bag, placed within a busy classrom, full of eager make-up students, was my ticket to Scottish designer Pam Hogg's show. 

Gutted doesn't even begin to describe it.

As one of Lady Gaga's favouirte designers, we all knew her collection would be pretty outrageous. And Hogg did not dissapoint. Latex bodysuits, panelled dressed and super tight pencil skirts, in bold shades of silver and yellow alongisde SS14 staples monochrome and dusky pink, models heads were decorated with rather interesting headwear. These took the term 'floral crown' to the next level. 

Make-up however, was very underplayed in comparision. The Body Shop team, lined the models waterlines with white kohl, and kept lashes, brows and lips subtle, whilst the Label M stylists used rollers to create bouncy, sexy curls.

IMAGE- VOGUE

From bold latex, to a wearable collection packed with beautifully soft pastels. Chrsitopher Bailey has done it once again. I am seriously in love with the SS14 Burberry Prorsum range.

The show, held near Kensington Gardens, was , of course, attended by Burberry 'faces' Sienna Miller and Alex Chung, and had a FROW to rivial House of Holland and Mulberry. 

Sheer skirts and blouses, cashmere jumpers, pencil dresses and of course, the staple Burberry trench, were all treated to soft washes of candy pastels. And if we weren't convinced this collection was aimed at Spring-time, the petals which descended on the guests during the finale, confirmed which season Bailey was designing for.

Make-up artist Wendy Rowe, used Burberrys make-up range to create a soft, pretty make-up inspired by an English Rose. With a soft diffusion of pink buffed onto eyes and an earth blush for cheek countour, skin was naturally glowing.

Well, Burberry, this collection for me, is what dreams are made of. God help my credit card.

IMAGE- VOGUE

From a soft Spring at Burberry, to what usually resembles an AW collection at Giles.

From show stopping black and taupe gowns, accesorised with ostrich feathers, to bold lip prints and dresses featuring images of sultry women, the collection seemed rather disjointed. But, no doubt, aspects of each piece will make it onto our high street fairly soon.

With hair swept into loose side plaits, make-up had an etheral feel, again usually seen on the February AW catwaks. 

With one day left, we can be sure that from what we have seen so far, in Spring Summer 2014 anything goes!

LFW SS14 Day 3

What I would give for a a Mulberry Wedgwood tea cup to be sat in my kitchen today. Why? Because if you were lucky or talented enough to receive one of these from your postman in the past few weeks, then you would have access to the Mulberry SS14 show! The show, collection and campaign, I anticipate and truly love, each and every season.

IMAGE- VOGUE

This week's show is even more poignant, as creative director Emma Hill leaves the brand today, after launching it from a British heritage brand to one with an international fashion A-list status. Hill's last collection, was fairly simple, in comparison to her previous. Once again this season, we witnessed monochrome tones, alongside bold floral prints and accents of burnt orange and soft grey. 

Model of the moment, Cara Delevingne opened the show, with simply natural hair, and make-up- the strongest element being mascara packed lashes and subtle pencil liner.

IMAGE- VOGUE

Next, it was off to high street favourite, Topshop Unique show, yet another with a star studded FROW. Topshop seem to have embraced the warm weather we have experienced of late, and predicted an even hotter one in 2014. Well, either that, or they are hoping we are all planning on travelling to hotter climates.

This collection has definitely focused more on the latter side of Spring Summer, with fine fabrics, smart shorts and flowing dresses. Another designer showcasing large volumes of white, accent colours of colbolt blue, jade green and mustard yellow brighten the Topshop Unique palette.

Make-up artist Hannah Murray, used Topshop's own make-up range to create a sun kissed yet disheveled look. Smokey, sultry eyes, with an added hint of silver sparkle in the inner corners of the eyes, were teamed with bronzed skin and wet look, worn in curled hair.

IMAGE- VOGUE

Fancy really expressing yourself?! Then why not try the extreme make-up created by make-up genius Val Garland at Vivienne Westwood Red Label next season- it's certainly one to get you noticed!
Using MAC make-up and feathers, Val and her artistic team, created a look which seem to be inspired by Halloween, complete with backcombed, extremely tatty hair. 
The clothing on the other hand, was much more wearable, with florals and unique work wear in a subtle palette of lemon, grey, navy and red.
The talk of the night? That opening dance from Lily Cole. What a way to start a show!




Finally, its off to Matthew Williamson, where a children's choir were there to entertain us. With a collection created for a hot Summer in Ibiza, and a palette of sorbet tones, bold florals and graphic prints, this is one collection the high street is sure to be inspired by.
Simple make-up inspired by a 1970's jet setter, was created by one of my favourite make-up artists- Lisa Eldridge. Using Benfit products, she created a bronzed luminous complexion, curled lashes and plump glossy lips. Hair was kept simple too, Mark Hayes styled models with soft volume and a side parting.

IMAGE- HAIRDRESSING JOURNAL

LFW SS14 Day 2

After a manic day running round the city beneath a SS12 Cath Kidston umbrella, it was back to Liverpool for me, and a 14 hours of clients at So Coco Rouge. So, it was back to streaming shows online and drooling over the new collections we have ahead of us.

IMAGE- Herald Scotland

Holly Fulton has been one of my favourite designers since she launched her label back in 2009- which is no doubt due to our joint love (some say obsession...) with the Art Deco era. Next season however, she's been inspired by an era, a little closer- the 1970's. With a large collection, packed with a variety of prints and multi-tonal palettes of blue, orange and grey, Fulton provided us with a complete Summer wardrobe. Perfect for sunny days yachting in Cannes.

Hair and make-up was also inspired by the disco days- a sleek deep set parting sweeping into full, tight curls, brushed through, creating cloud-like fluffiness. Brushed through brows, vivid purple shadow applied to the eye lid and right up to the brow and a metallic bronze-nude lip completed the look. 

IMAGE- VOGUE

Then, it's onto yet another favourite- John Rocha- A collection that I turn to for inspiration every year. Rocha's SS14 collection was another to include a monochrome palette, alongside delicate floral patterns, ruffled fabric and sheer panels. The MAC make-up team created metallic silver eyes, by using loose pigments and teamed this with feminine soft pink lips and slicked back, crimped hair. 

IMAGE- VOGUE

As early evening approached, it was time for the celebrities favourite and fun filled brand, House of Holland. With a FROW consisting of Harry Styles, Kelly Osbourne, Nick Grimshaw and Elllie Goulding, this show is instantly guaranteed newsworthy- but did the collection stand up to its Holland's credentials? 

It most certainly does. Lace, checks, florals and  religious motifs. Metallics, pastels, bright primaries and denim. Accessorised with cat-eye sunglasses and peaked caps, what more could you ask for? 

And the make-up pleased me immensely- luminous complexions, flicks of liquid liner and full raspberry red lips. Hair was styled by Babyliss, using a heated wand to create loose summer waves, finished with slicked back front.

Rock N Kohl with Charlotte Tilbury

After returning to the North after a few days working in London, I had a horrible feeling I had planned to stay in the big smoke for longer. But, what on earth for?

Then a twitter and Instagram trending hashtag appears like a great big lightning bolt. 

image- Selfridges

One of my inspirations, make-up artist Charlotte Tilbury was hosting a week long beauty festival at one of my favouitre beauty meccas, Selfridges. 

Due to launch her own brand in September, House of Rock N Kohl, the event is a great introduction to whats in store, and a fantastic chance to learn from the UK's best.

Image- Selfridges

The event consists of a variety of events- including an evening of backstage beauty chat with Lisa Eldridge , Charlotte herself and Vogue Beauty Director Nicola Moulton, 'Tilbury' style transformations and a chance to have your lipstick read by the Psychic Sisters.

You can even bring along your make-up bag for a health check- Team Tilbury will be on hand to recommend the best products for you and teach you the best ways to use what you already have! 

Us make-up artists love having a nosey in each others kits, and Charlotte is obviously no different! Her kit favourites are even on display, and available to buy in store. What a great way of finding out what the top pro's can't work without!

Image- Selfridges

So, if you are in London this week and are a bit of a beauty junkie like me, then head down to Selfridges! Judging by this video it looks like you will have a ball!

OPI AW13 San Francisco Collection Launch

Finally, the sun is shining on the capital!!

And what better way to spend a sunny morning than listening to the Mamas and Papas cult hit 'California Dreamin' and imagining that you are cruising around San Fran, in a convertible around the late 1960's. The flares however are definitely optional. 

Well, that is exactly how I have spent my day so far-

With a gorgeous manicure, endless coffee and gossip all thrown in for good measure.

Cult nail brand OPI, today held their AW press launch of the fabulous San Francisco collection at the quirky Hotel Soho. Hidden off a bustling Oxford St, Hotel Soho looks quite traditional (and dare I say, bland?!) from the outside- but once you have stepped inside the polished foyer and made your way to the selection of conference rooms available, I can assure you, your opinion will change!

The OPI took over the Crimson room, which is decorated with sumptuous fabrics, Moroccan inspired prints and rich colours. If I could move in here, I'd be unpacked by the time you can say 'Home Sweet Home'

After a quick chat with my fellow OPI QVC presenters Lisa and Julie, and a catch up with colleagues Siobhain and Nicky, it was time for a pamper! 

Now, I'm a girl who cannot make decisions, how I manage to decide what to wear each day is beyond me. So, it's a good job nail tech Anita was on hand to guide me through the options!

 

After much deliberation we decided I should bravely move away from my favourite red and purple tones and try something new- in the shape of the multi-tonal 'Peace, Love and OPI' and a flash of liquid sand 'Alcatraz Rocks' on my ring finger. 

If you haven't tried it yet, Liquid Sand creates a textured, matte finish infused with reflective sparkle. A must buy-especially when you want to out-mani your friends or foes!

The San Francisco collection contains 12 traditional lacquer's and 3 Liquid Sand shades.

Ranging from moody greys to rich rubies, elegant blues to a rich nude, this autumn there is something for us all. Continuing the on trend 60s/70s vibe provided my the playlist, the collection was beautifully displayed amongst beds of daisy's and surrounded by striking black and white scenes of San Fran during the hippy era.

 

 
 

The advertising imagery created for this collection is simply beautiful too- tousled hair, soft make up and creamy skin compliment the strong nail shades perfectly.Definitely a look I hope to see more of!

 

The inspirational Lena White, managing director of Lena White LTD, 

the UK distributor of OPI said of the collection-

 "San Francisco offers a European flair with distinct West Coast attributes. These elements inspired a collection of urban chic nail lacquers, thanks to the sophisticated combination of high fashion and eclectic street style"

So, as a morning of listening to the familiar tones of Sonny, Cher and Donovan draws to a close, there is just time for a quick chat with QVC presenter Will Gowing before making my way back to the reality of 2013. I think a little trip to Topshop is in order- well flares are back in style this season aren't they?!

Kryolan Live Event

 

Well what a night it's been!

 

Tonight myself and Robyn, were kindly invited by Propa Ganda to the launch of the re-branded Kryolan range, which was held at The Chemistry Centre, in London's Piccadilly.

 

 

 

For those of you who think you have never come across Kryolan, if Robyn or I have applied your make-up, then you have! In our professional kits and the huge kit we have at SCR, you will find many Kryolan products.

From Derma Blend for Tattoo, scar and blemish cover, to their nifty lip palettes and huge pots of translucent powder, Kryolan is the brand we turn to.

 

This event was to celebrate the recent re-branding and launch of their newest products, giving professional make-up artists the chance to try them first hand.

 

The evening began with a heart warming talk from both Wolfram Langer and his son Dominik, who explained to us how Arnold Langer, Wolfram's father started the brand back in the 1920's, influenced by his combined passion of the theatre and science.

 

65 years on the brand is still used by make-up professionals the world over. From specials effects in TV to traditional theatre make-up and fashion editorial work, Kryolan has products to suit each genre.

 

After a short video showcasing the products uses, the newest advertising images were released and live models surrounded us each wearing a unique make-up design inspired by each genre.

Like children in a candy store, we were all eager to get trying the products, and boy did Kryolan spoil us! Huge pots of pigment, stacks of glitter and palettes upon palettes of brightly coloured eye shadows were available to play with, and play we did!!

My favourite products included the High Definition 15 shade foundation palette, Shimmering Vision Cream Pigments and the re-packaged lip palettes we already swear by! Luckily, Kryolan very kindly supplied us each with a bag full of goodies to wet our appetite until the new range becomes available later this month.

 

Before the evening drew to a close, I was very privileged to be asked to give a mini interview on my thoughts on the new branding, (which luckily were all good!!) which I'll post here when I receive the finished piece!

 

 

 

The SCR take on LFW SS13

Phew...arriving back in Liverpool and straight back into day to day life at So Coco Rouge. Coffee is most definitely needed!!

 

Whilst our minds are still down in London admiring the upcoming fashions, Robyn and I decided to create our own versions of two of our favourites.

 

First up is Antoni and Alison, which you'll remember was a splash of blue or green with a nude centre panel. Instead we used MAC pigments Mauvement, Vanilla and Naked, mixed together to create a warm natural toned area to the centre of the eye.

Products used-

Art Deco eye base

MAC Pigments- Mauvement, Vanilla and Naked to centre

Lily LoLo mineral pigment in Pixie

MUA Mascara

Estee Lauder gel liner in Black

 

 

Then we decided to create the Topshop make-up, Hannah Murray created.

Gorgeous pink lids with heavy Kohl.

 

 

 Products Used-
MAC Paint Pot- Artifact
MAC Shadow- Perky
MAC Kohl liner- Smoulder
MUA Mascara in Black



 

 

Next up- Louise Gray and Vivienne Westwood- if we dare?!!!?

Vauxhall Fashion Scout- DAS Collection

It seems a shame not to feature any of the upcoming designers at Vauxhall Fashion Scout, so I thought it would be good to introduce my favourite. DAS Collection, which was launched in 2008 by sisters Reem and Hind Beljafla.

 

 

 

 

 

I have always admired Alek Wek, and it was fantastic to see her open the show on Monday at Freemasons Hall.

 

The collections rich jewel colour palette was paired with luxurious silk fabrics, and elaborate gold jewellery.

 

Alek's make-up was kept very simple- dewy and neutral, in comparison to the other models 1950's inspired winged liner and classic red lips. All make-up was provided by Body Shop.  Models hair was slicked back, with a short centre part, into a neat top knot. A look that funnily enough Robyn was rocking on Monday too- how very fashion forward of her!!

 

 

Image- Vauxhall Fashion Scout

 

LFW Day Five

How quickly this week comes and goes- it seems like within the blink of an eye its all over once again!!

 

I have always had a soft spot for Mulberry bags, ever since I first held a Bayswater in Selfridges, Trafford. My love grew when I stumbled upon a beautiful vintage Mulberry in a local antiques centre 2 years ago, for under £100!  So, today as I am very season, my eyes are peeled on their SS collection.

 

 

 

The FROW as it is every year was jam packed with celebrity fans, alongside previous bag name-sakes, Alexa Chung and Lana Del Ray. This year they introduce the 'Willow' bag, which is surely a bargain buy- with its detachable clutch bag!!!

 

Once again, plaits and soft texture were featured in the models hair, whilst skin was left bare and dewy with heavily highlighted cheeks. Eyes were heavily wing lined with black liquid or gel liner, and lips stained with a rosebud pink.

 



Images- Vogue

 

 

 

Then off I head back up north, with a head full of Spring Summer brights yet dressed head to toe in AW Black leather.

 

Goodbye LFW, now let the countdown to February and AW13 begin!

 

 

 

 

LFW Day Two, Three and Four

From day two London is a buzz of sunshine, coffee and a schedule jam packed of the best shows in town.

 

Picking my favourites was tough- but here is a quick breakdown the ones that caught my attention the most!! I'd suggest you grab yourself a brew (Starbucks chai skinny latte for me por favour!) and a comfy seat before we begin!!

Day Two and we head first to the Topshop space in Bloomsbury to marvel at the fabulous Holly Fulton. The lip's at the Fulton show, are to me, what spring summer should be about- Experimenting with bright, loud colour.  The lips were a clever blend of tangerine and fuchsia, blending seamlessly together. Models skin was beautifully sunkissed by Sienna false tan, and a sheer coverage base was used to create a bare dewy look. Eyes were kept completely make-up free- ensuring all eyes were on those fabulous lips!!

 

Image- She Said Beauty

 

 

Once again we saw plaits emerging in the SS shows. This time alongside deep side partings and textured swept fringes.

 

Mavla headed the nail teams, creating these colourful intricate designs featuring beach balls! Well it is Spring Summer after all!

Image- She Said Beauty

 

 

 

It was then onto Somerset House, and one of my favourite designers. John Rocha. I always find his show inspiring, and adore the ethereal look he always creates.

 

Today was no different. Sam Bryant designed this years make-up, creating an ethereal smokey eye, using light brown earthy tones with a cream texture, extenuating the contour of the eye socket. This was paired perfectly with a chiselled cheek and jaw and a matt bare lip.

 

Image- MSN

 

 

To complete my day two favourites with a holiday feel, its off to House of Holland, and the FROW everyone wants. Celebrity friends galore!

 

MAC designed and headed the make-up, focusing soley on eyes. Back was the favoured bleached brow, along with a softly blended brown smokey eye. Skin was bronzed, complete with faux freckles, contoured cheeks and a nude lip. The sunkissed theme continued into the tousled beach waved hair, softely pinned.

 

Image- Facebook

 

 

Day Three, usually the day when your bum gets numb, your body stops responding to your usual cappuccino hits and  you slowly turn to an espresso. But this year, all you need is a little bit of Val Garlands creative flare to get you right back into the swing of things!!

Image- Getty

 

Vivienne Westwood Red Label- the one show that will make SS13 stick in my mind.

Think 1950's-1960's. Think Andy Warhol. Think Techno Colour.

 

Add a touch of the wonderfully bizarre personas Val creates for Lady Gaga and you've got it.

 

Beautiful 1950's set hair, the perfect hourglass figure and make-up you can only begin the imagine.

 

Once again the word on everyones mouth was Westwood. (And Garland the Goddess!!)

 

 

Its then onto Topshop Unique, which started off as such a small show, yet has grown to be one of the hottest tickets in town. Hannah Murray as always headed the make-up team.

Hannah like all pro make-up artists likes to mix it up- so used pinky blusher on lids, soft peach lipstick on cheeks and a neutral shadow on lips- and boy did it work!!

 

The Kohl lined eyes added an edge of grunge, which is so hot this AW, one can only hope it can continue way into SS.

 

Image- Inside Out

 

Finally Day Four-  and we are back off to the Topshop space for Louise Gray.

Once again this is a show like Westwood- known for being a little alternative and brimming with creativity.

This year was not a disappointment. You thought 'Scouse Brow' was a bold look? Then the 'crowned' brows here probably aren't a trend you'll be inheriting!

Like House of Holland and Westwood, at Gray faux freckles and beauty marks were also created- but in the un-natural tone of electric blue- which was also used as a liner across the socket line.

Tangerine lips finished this bold make-up, which is now slowly becoming my SS shade of choice.

 

 

 Image- Vogue

 

Its then onto Burberry- yet another favourite of mine, mainly due to my love of a trench coat.

This seasons trench has had an injection of metallic colour, many describing the final collection looking similar to a box of Quality Streets!

 

To keep with the Burberry tradition-hair was kept soft and simple with deep side partings paired with simple eyes and a classic red lip. Beautiful.

 

Image- Reuters

 

 

Four days down and one to go. Lets up the espresso intake, crack open more bubbly and celebrate our wonderful city in all its glory.