Returning to Dazed

After mopping about this summer, moaning about having nothing to do, I decided to get back in touch with Elizabeth Fraser-Bell, deputy fashion editor at Dazed and Confused. 

I managed to bag myself an internship at the style magazine last December. It included hard work, heavy suitcases and long hours but I was working at one of my favourite publications so I won't complain. I emailed Elizabeth the other day to ask if I could return to the Dazed fashion department. 

Knowing how many interns come and go at the magazine I was worried that I might not be remembered but thankfully I got a warm reply, welcoming me back to work at Dazed. I will be returning in August and can't wait to be heading back to the Dazed and Confused office.

USED

Yesterday afternoon I found myself back in the East End, heading towards the Used magazine office. Used is a new biannual publication, that focuses on the connection between fashion and art. I met with the lovely Rebecca Sammon - the Fashion Editor of Used, to discuss potential work experience there for myself in the future. The magazine office was quaint and cute, somewhere I would definitely like to work. My chat with Rebecca went well and we established that I will be returning to Used to help out in the next few weeks, which I am very much looking forward to. 

Lazy Oaf X Batman

 

To celebrate the release of The Dark Knight Rises, Lazy Oaf have teamed up with Batman to create a capsule collection for men and women. 

In true Lazy Oaf style, the collection is animated, full of prints, with bat wing dresses, sheer crop tops, leotards, shirts and tee shirts. The batman print crop top in the image above has particularly caught my eye, and I can safely say I will be waiting for the collection to launch this Friday. 

One of my favourite photographers, Viktor Vauthier shot the campaign for the collection.

Life of a Fashion Intern

Alexis Knox

Today I'm heading down to Notion magazine's office in Old Street, to meet and help out fashion stylist Alexis Knox's team. The rain is pouring down so fingers crossed I'm not sent out running round London as usual. Either way I'm happy to have the chance intern for Alexis as I've been a follower of her and her work for a while. 

Happy Interning to me!

For my work experience with Alexis Knox's team I had to style a show room for a press show that will take place later this week. It's reassuring to know that not all internships mean dragging suitcases round London! The day was spent sorting rails of clothing and styling mannequins. At the end of the day I swapped numbers with Alexis's Fashion Assistants, who said they'll let me know when they next need an extra pair of helping hands...

Dungarees

I injected a hit of nostalgia into my wardrobe when I purchased a new pair of dungarees last week. I have always lusted after the perfect pair of dungarees. Playful and childlike, they remind me of the good old days, when  I was able to run around getting grass stained knees in the summer. However, unlike my childhood, I wont be using my dunga's as overalls to protect myself from the dangers of my back garden. 

The hunt for the perfect pair began early this year. London's cool kids nabbed vintage one's from the likes of Beyond Retro and Rokit. But alas, my tiny 5'3 self found it hard to track down a pair that would fit me without looking like I drowning under a sea of denim. 

So I turned to the high street. Trusty Topshop let me down and Urban Outfitters only had dungaree skirts and I was after shorts. 

I finally found the perfect pair in American Apparel. I ended up paying £76 - a little on the pricey side I agree - but I know I will where these babies constantly throughout summer. The baggy fit adds a tomboy charm and my new dungaree's are both pretty and practical! All I need now is my jelly shoes, vintage ray bans and Hawaiian shirt and I'm ready for summer.

Tess Yopp

Fashion stylist Tess Yopp has caught my attention lately...

Spoiling myself..

I decided it was time to treat myself for two reasons. 1. My hard work for Nicole Freeman needed to be rewarded and 2. I haven't treated myself in far too long.

I bought a Mink Pink knitted jumper with 3/4 length sleeves. I love the holey detail on the jumper and for this reason, I also bought a lace crop top to wear underneath it. The crop top also works well as a comfy alternative to a bra. Both pieces are from Urban Outfitters.

 I also treated myself to a ditsy floral print playsuit, also from Urban Outfitters. Not something I'd usually be drawn to, but thought I would try something more feminine for once. The cut out detail breaks up the print nicely and I look forward to wearing this little number with converse and a denim jacket when the sun comes out. My final (and favourite) purchase is a pair of dungarees from American Apparel. Due to their expense, I decided to order these online to save myself 15% so I'm looking forward to having these babies delivered in the next few days. 

Assisting Nicole Freeman - The Dreaded Returns

The dreaded returns weren't actually that dreadful. Arriving promptly at Nicole's flat in Hackney at 11 to collect the heavy suitcase of clothes, I headed off round London handing back borrowed clothes to designer offices and PR companies. Despite the rain and the painfully heavy case, I was quick with returning and was back at Nicole's flat for round 2 of returns by 2pm, the target time I had set myself earlier on. Round 2 wasn't bad either, except this time round I was worn out from round 1 and my feet were absolutely killing me. Despite the pain, I soldiered on and had returned every item on my list my 4.45pm. Not bad. 

Nicole thanked me genuinely for my 'hard work' at the end of the day. Working with Nicole Freeman had been hard work but enjoyable at the same time and has made me long for the days when I have my own assistant to run around London for me... 

Assisting Nicole Freeman- Day 2

My favourite item from the shoot by Ashish

Day 2 meant the day of the photo shoot for Surface magazine. My alarm went off bright and early at 7am, the earliest I had woken up in a long time. I managed to nab a lift to Chance Street in East London off my Dad who's a black cab driver. Once I arrived at Chance Street Studio, I unloaded Nicole's suitcases from her taxi up to the dressing room and started unpacking and hanging up the clothes. 

An array of clothes fit for the sport luxe theme of the photo shoot filled the rails. Mary Katrantzou, Meadham Kirchhoff, Prada, and Ashish to name a few, were amongst the designer labels. Shortly after, two tall leggy models arrived at the studios, one blonde one brunette, who I had the privilege of dressing all day - because of course they can't dress themselves. My short 5'3 self, meant my eyes were at the models nipple level I had to stand on tip toes in order to zip up dresses to the top. 

Apart from dressing the models, my day was spent on the set of the shoot, watching the photographer at work, steaming clothes, packing the clothes back up and generally assisting Nicole on the styling decisions. At lunch time delicious take away pizza's were delivered to the studio, one of the days perks.

10 outfit changes later and the shoot was over. The atmosphere was much more laid back than I imagined and I got a real taste of what being a stylist was like. Nicole was lovely to assist for and I loved the whole experience of being on a fashion shoot. My week's work of assisting Nicole Freeman is nearly over, all that's left is the dreaded returns...

Assisting Nicole Freeman- Day 1

The first week into my summer holidays and I managed to bag myself some work experience for the fashion stylist Nicole Freeman. I will be assisting Nicole on a fashion shoot for Surface magazine.

Day 1: The Pick Ups

I arrived at Nicole's flat in Hackney at 11am to pick up a suitcase which I'd be filling with clothes ready for the shoot tomorrow. I head off on my travels around London - West, Central and East. I only had five places to pick up from but was warned there will be more when returning. I was told I had to pick up an Erdem sample from Relative PR, which meant I got to the biscuit building where they're located. I love the biscuit building, mostly for it's name but it's interior is lovely, so I was happy about that one. My first day of collections wasn't too bad concerning I spent hours walking round London, but the weather was kind and I had my ipod to keep me going.

Meeting Rob Da Bank

Yesterday the Lock Tavern in Camden hosted an event for Dj Derek's 70th Birthday. Joining Derek was a number of dj's, including Bestival's creator Rob Da Bank. I have been to Bestival twice and will be attending the festival again this year and can say that it truly is an incredible festival. It's clear how much thought and imagination goes into making Bestival what it is, so I felt obliged to express my love and excitement to Rob Da Bank. He was so genuine and down to earth and took the time to have a quick chat with my friends and I about Bestival. We were all over the moon. 

The event held at the Lock Tavern was intimate and friendly with a lively atmosphere. Dj Derek dropped dub and reggae beats, whilst dressed in his little waistcoat drinking a pint of Guinness... not a bad life for a 70-year-old. 

Lusting After Legwear

 

In the last few weeks I have been on a hunt for a light pair of trousers for the cool summer evenings that are just round corner. I have managed to narrow my search down to three, lovely contestants. The trousers I have carefully selected have many similarities, one of which being that they're all made from 100% silk, which makes them very special. The combination of the shape and fabric of all three of the trousers creates a sports luxe feel that I'm very fond of. The first pair of trousers are by Topshop Boutique, for £60. Although £60 seems a little pricey for something so plain, I feel the quality makes spending extra acceptable, plus I would be able to mix and match them with a variety of tops. The second pair from Topshop (which is my current favourite), just looks like they were made for summer nights. These little beauties are £75 but I am falling in love fast with the soft colour palette and silky texture. Lastly, in a bold, black and white paisley pattern there trousers also by Topshop Boutique for £80. These would be a statement piece in my wardrobe and don't forget paisley is so in right now.  I know for some paying £60-£80 for one pair of trousers may seem slightly extravagant to some, but I think if you're paying for quality (and something you really love) it's worth every penny. Now to make my decision...

The Del Rey

It seemed to me like Miss Lana Del Rey popped up out of nowhere and with her hit Video Games and became an instant sensation. Her face was plastered on the pages and covers of numerous magazines as her music topped the charts with her soulful voice and emotional lyrics. With her Hollywood glamour style made up of feminine silhouettes she has also become quite the fashion icon. And now, taking the place of the previous 'It' girl Alexa Chung, Del Rey has had the honour of having a Mulberry bag named after her. Inspired by her nostalgic references, the Del Rey bag has a simple structure whilst oozing a vintage and traditional feel. Personally, I wouldn't invest in the Del Rey Mulberry, however I can see it's timeless appeal and nod to the heritage of the brand that will make it very popular indeed. It seems like at the moment Lana Del Rey has it all and I bet she's loving every minute of it.

It's the Queens Jubilee

If like me, you were a fan of Henry Holland's infamous slogan tee's then you're in luck. The Brit designer has added a touch of his quirky flavour to a tea towel in honour of her royal highness's upcoming jubilee. The slogan, 'I'm so excited I could wee it's the Queen's jubilee', is printed on the tea towel in a traditional Union Jack pattern. Distinctively designed by Holland, he has brightened up a kitchen necessity.

Bark Jewellery

Bark is a beautifully intricate brand of jewellery, created by Miwako Yoshioka. Each collection posses a nostalgic characteristic which defines Bark's quality. Yoshioka's inspirations are drawn from her childhood memories which is reflected through her darling designs. Each and every piece is delicately hand made to perfection in her London workshop, increasing the speciality of her jewellery. I have featured my favourite items above, a tiny ship in a bottle attached to a gold chain necklace and an engraved heart shape ring. Bark is available to buy from a number of stockists including Paul Smith, Urban Outfitters and Mitsukosh London. 

Film Review: Candy

Last night I watched Candy, directed by Neil Armfield, after being told about it by a friend. The film is based on the novel by Luke Davies and stars Heath Ledger, a poet who falls in love with an art student named Candy, played by Abbie Cornish. There love is glued by the substance of heroin, which forms a platform for despair and desperation. The film portrays both their addiction to love and the drug realistically and as the viewer you become hooked on their highs and lows throughout the feature. Performances by Ledger and Cornish gave a naturalistic insight into the journey of desire and obsessions concerning drug addiction. Overall the film had a very personal feel to it and was an intoxicating watch. I will definitely be recommending Candy to others.

Mimi Holliday

Mimi Holliday is a luxurious underwear label, where the finest silks, satins and French silk chiffons are sourced to create the delicate and intimate pieces. Details such as big bows and an overdose of lace create a seductive but playful feel about the underwear. The sizing ranges from a 28A to a 40E making the label suitable for almost any shape and form. The collections are sweetly themed and each range of underwear has its own name; the latest collection was named after cocktails, with ranges called Mojito, Pina Colda and Whisky Sour to name a few. I have purchased from Mimi Holliday in the past and can safely say the quality, fit and comfort of the products are of a high standard and although they seem a little pricey they're well worth every penny. Mimi Holliday is certainly a label to indulge in for intricate, beautiful lingerie.

Jellies

A staple fashion item from my childhood wardrobe, amongst Princess dresses and dungarees has to be jelly shoes. I distinctly remember a little glittery, orange pair. Although there is a lack of glitter this time round, jelly shoes seem to be making a come back this summer for a slightly older audience. These JuJu jelly shoes that I love, are available from Urban Outfitters for an affordable £24. They come in an array of colours including yellow, purple, white and my two favourites pastel pink and black. I can imagine pairing these with white ankle socks and short denim dungarees as part of my summer wardrobe.

Street Fest 2012

For my Broadcast unit at University, my group and I decided to head down to Street Fest in Shoreditch and interview a number of people about East London and whether it's still up and coming of dying out. Street Fest was located in Hearn Street car park off Curtain Road. The event was home to a number of creatives who showcased their work, including graffiti artists, rappers, break dancers, djs, skateboarders, and more. 

Street Fest brought together an electric mix of people from all over London to enjoy the urban event. Personal high points from the day included Lady Lykez, rapping, 'I Love My Butt', and an energetic set from Work It dj's, who delivered a mix of old skool hip-hop classics, dub and drum and bass, that got the crow. 

We managed to interview a number of people who took part in Street Fest, whether they were performers, members of the public or people promoting their own brands and designs. Everyone we interviewed was more than happy to give their opinions on the event itself and East London. 

 Street Fest proved to be an exciting one of a kind event, that I would happily attend in the future.

Jewellery Lust

I have never been one to splurge on jewellery because of my tendency to break, spill, smash and loose anything I touch. Luckily for me, my clumsy nature is beginning to wear out so I have begun eyeing up some treasures. Modelled on Vivienne Westwood herself in the Royalty issue of i-D (which I have blogged about before), is a gold skeleton necklace. The skeleton is hung by it's tiny hands to a thin gold chain which falls delicately above her chest. I love the skeleton figure, especially for it's anatomical joints which allow the arms and legs to move separately from the body. The necklace is also available in a longer length, as well as in silver.