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.