For many of us, when we think of French fashion we think of two very distinctive styles from two very distinctive eras. First, we have the famed modern-classic style created and notarised by the likes of Coco Chanel et al; and then there are the spectacular creations showcased in Versailles by only a privileged few at the end of the French monarchy in the late 16th century. With the latter we’re talking opulence to the extreme; gold, baroque, feathers, pastels, lace… Seen Sophia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette? That’s what we’re talking about. And for now, let’s focus on the that – it seems the likes of Valentino and Elie Saab are anyway, so the bandwagon must be going somewhere good.

It’s hard not to be captivated by the luxurious detailing and dramatic shapes of pre-revolution France and indeed they are never far from the runways of Fashion Week. This season, the couture of Louis XVI’s court has been revived almost as it began: in the couture shows of Paris.

First up we have Valentino Couture. We expect couturish couture from Valentino Garavani, with dramatic red carpet dresses having long been his staple, but his latest couture collection would barely have raised a powdered eyebrow in the court of Versailles. The designs are modern of course, but the 16^th century references are so many that the gowns could almost be (stunningly beautiful) costumes. Hem lines have been changed, necklines toyed with, and sleeves removed, to give an overall contemporary effect to the work. But the gold brocade, rich golden embroidery, countless embellishments, and the cloud-like silver silk and tulle are undeniably influenced by the French Aristocracy.

Elie Saab too, has gone for renaissance fashion disguised in contemporary shapes. His signature pastels have never been more divine, or more appropriate – the silver blue against the flesh coloured silk featured in Marie Antoinette’s most infamous portrait. His shapes for the most part are in keeping with the 21^st century, through corseted bodices and flowing, volumised skirts – simply kept up to date with the inclusion of pockets. For all of his French architectural influences and aristocratic colour choices, it is Saab’s sheer opulence that truly allows the collection to fall in to this theme.

An entirely different but no less spectacular take on the trend is Alexis Mabille’s couture collection. His collection is 1680s Versailles through and through, all of the elements are there; the chalk white skin, the delicate pastels, the lace, exaggerated sleeves and waists, even the grey hair. Mabille’s models appear to be Marie Antoinette’s court incarnate; they just first found themselves in a London club, only to be slightly restyled. The result? A glorious clash of over-modern and the ornately old.

It’s hard to imagine ever actually having cause to take inspiration from any of the beautiful styles mentioned- we are talking couture, after all- but it’s hard not to fall head over heels for each and every one of the frothy delights. What can we say? We’re Francophiles.

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Images courtesy of Style & Marie Antoinette Official film website

Article by Amy Hampshire

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For the past few months, high street stores have been guaranteed to stock one thing -  the crop top and it’s safe to say that we can definitely count on their continued popularity throughout summer. The crop top is back with a bang, but what are the best ways to wear this fabulously flattering design?

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The different styles of the crop top have high street stores buzzing with an array of different colours, cuts and designs. But even if you don’t have a flat stomach or a six pack to die for, there is no need to panic because there are many ways to wear a crop top and still pull it off.

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The Spring/Summer 2013 catwalks were buzzing with cropped jumpers, vests, high necks and t-shirts; from Louis Vuitton’s checked, square designs to Jonathon Saunders’ metallic t-shirt ensembles. Although some may hold concerns that only a catwalk model can pull off the bare belly look, we hold a different view! The lesson we’ve learnt from the return of the cropped top in 2013? A curvy girl, somebody who previously may not have in their wildest dream ever considered baring their midriff can comfortably wear this style because the cropped look is no longer limited to a skin tight, skimpy vest. This is great news! A popular and flattering look this summer is the pairing of a t-shirt style cropped top with high waist shorts and we love it!

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Crop tops have made their mark in the fashion industry this year, we predict they will continue to be a major part of Spring/Summer 2013 fashion. They have proven themselves to be flattering to all shapes and sizes and they make up an essential part of a holiday wardrobe, fit for beautiful warm and sunny weather A big yes to crop tops this summer!

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Images by Glamour and The Guardian

-Article by Gabby Tuzzeo

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Royal fashion has become somewhat a topic of gossip ever since Prince William wed Kate Middleton in 2011. But arguably nobody has ever graced and honoured the royal title through her style better than Princess Diana did. This summer, Kensington Palace will host an exhibition displaying a collective range of royal dresses owned by not only Princess Diana of Wales, but the Queen and Princess Margaret. A fashion exhibition is so much more exciting when it’s hosted by the royals!

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Our lovely Queen Elizabeth has a history of fabulous gowns and ensembles we must not forget! Her style has progressed over her 60 year reign as queen from elegant and classic glamour to classy, clean cut and colourful suits. Although no clues have yet been revealed as to what we can expect at this exhibition, we have high hopes. We can’t wait to see what iconic outfits will be unveiled at Kensington Palace this summer.

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The curator, Cassie Davies-Stodder has said that the show will open on 4th July 2013 and it will provide us with the opportunity to ‘get up close to these wonderful dresses and be transported to the times in which they were worn.’ Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales have all been very much linked to Kensington Palace throughout their lives, the location is ultimately idyllic.

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We are all dying to see what blasts from the past are set to be showcased to the public. Her style was iconic and she beautifully modelled the style of a glamorous celebrity, whilst maintaining the composure and elegance of a royal princess. From short, figure hugging LBD’s to sequinned, floor-length gowns Diana was a role model to many young women of the time and it will be very exciting to see her old outfits come to life once again.

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Images by Grazia

-Article by Gabby Tuzzeo

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David Bowie’s new music video for his second single from his new album called “The Next Day”, shows him as Jesus. Marion Cotillard and Gary Oldman make surprise appearances with Gary playing a gangster-looking priest and Cotillard as a prostitute who appears to show signs of the stigmata. The video is probably not appealing to everyone and has come under criticism for its treatment of the Christian religion.

Even though it is pretty controversial, it definitely makes for an interesting view. Watch it at the YouTube link below.

David Bowie- The Next Day

Bowie’s remarkable comeback which includes this video has garnered him a lot of attention. It was apparently removed form YouTube for violating terms but can be see on there now. Other pop stars have been known to “mock” religion including Madonna with “Like a prayer”and more recently, Lady Gaga’s “Judas” which came under fire for its religious connotations, though it was thought to be a homage to Madonna.

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Image courtesy of The Atlantic Wire

Article by Rebecca Bourke

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American retail giant J.Crew have confirmed that they are coming to London permanently, opening up a flagship boutique store in November. This exciting news comes after J.Crew also announced a pop-up store coming to Kings Cross for two days at the end of May. The pop-up will give shoppers a taste of what is to come from the UK flagship store, providing a chance to see and preorder the J.Crew Summer collection and preview the Autumn collection.

Some J.Crew goods will also be available to buy, including hand jewelled collars and Italian cashmere pieces. J.Crew’s monogramming service will be available additionally. Along with the pop-up store, J.Crew has announced that they will be collaborating with Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, by launching a specialist scholarship program and design project with MA students from the college.

The president and executive creative director of J.Crew Jenna Lyons said: “Design students are the lifeblood of our industry. Their creativity and enthusiasm is a constant inspiration for all of us at J.Crew. We are looking forward to introducing ourselves to Londoners this May.”

We at TSC couldn’t be more excited for the new store and the lucky students at Central Saint Martins, and we can’t wait to get our J.Crew fill at the end of this month!

The pop-up store will be at the Western Transit Shed, 4 Stable Street, Kings Cross, N1C 4AB – for the 24^th and 25^th of May only.

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Images courtesy of J Crew

Article by Daisy Kent

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You’ve probably had the memo – cycling is cool again. Forget the fact that your knees ache and your face is the colour of an angry tomato within thirty seconds of pedaling – Alexa Chung has been seen cycling her troubles away and in accordance with the maxims of fashion-trend hierarchy, so must you. Okay, we kid; if the thought of exercising in public is enough to make you consider permanent hibernation then fair enough. But take a look at some of the wonderfully chic cycle accessories on offer and you may be sorely tempted. Anyway, cycling isn’t about the nylon shorts and keeping fit anymore – it’s about the fashion, of course.

The bicycle-fashion compound is a relatively simply yet non-negotiable formula. To be successful at achieving the coveted referral of ‘bicycle-chic’, you must be able to be categorised as each of the following things: Retro, quirky, and inappropriate. The ‘retro’ element of course is in reference to your bicycle. A ‘70s throwback is good, or even an ‘80s sports number – Karl Lagerfeld has gone for this theme with his seventeen thousand dollar bike for Chanel.

If you really want to impress, though, go old. Full on rust is good. Think bells and wicker baskets and the likelihood that said bike was first owned by a suffragette. A bold move would be to go for a penny-farthing, though you will be branded a hipster – whether you consider that a good or bad thing is your call. Don’t go for a unicycle though. Never a unicycle.

‘Quirky’ is for your accessories. If you’re going to consider safety then we strongly recommend a hand painted helmet by Belle Helmets. Our favourite is this asymmetric ‘phrenology’ one – a bit pricey, but worth it; this piece is as beautiful as a Stephen Jones hat. And anyway, hat hair will probably be the new in thing next season.

If you’re not too fussed about keeping mortality rates down, you could instead opt for this amazing Chesterfield style leather seat by Autumn, or perhaps this rather amazing and practical picnic basket by Moynat.

Last but certainly not least, we have ‘inappropriate’. If you haven’t guessed, we’re referring to your cycling attire. At an absolute push you may get away with skinny jeans and a vintage jumper and Chelsea boots, but only on a rainy day. True pedaling fashionistas wear only the flimsiest and most unlikely of clothing atop their pushbikes. Think bloomer-skimming silk dresses, summer sandals, denim shorts, perhaps even a back-wheel-brushing maxi skirt if you fancy a walk on the wild side.

So, have we swayed you? If we have, great! But if like us, you manage all of ten minutes upon a bicycle before realising that you’d much rather be on a bus then how about one of these silhouetted stag head bike stands from Graham and Green to store your cycle? That Chanel bike worth your annual salary is probably way too valuable to actually be ridden anyway…

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Images courtesy of Moynat, Pretty Dinos, Chanel, Graham & Green, The London Nocturne, Belle Helmets and Autumn

Article by Amy Hampshire

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The Saatchi Gallery will host an exhibition dedicated to Hermès, based on what goes in to the craftsmanship of the French label’s products. Artisans who work at Hermès will demonstrate to visitors a selection of 10 different crafts that they use in order to create the beautiful, high-quality produce that the company is renowned for. Unlike the retrospective exhibition at the Royal Academy of Art last year, Handbags, printed silk scarves, watches and fine jewellery will be made in view of those visiting.

The exhibition is intended to show the audience the traditions and values that Hermès believes in, when it comes to producing fine, luxury items. Interaction with the craftsmen is also encouraged at the Hermès Festival des Métiers, as they showcase iconic items and bring them to life at the gallery.

The exhibition has so far visited Beijing and Shenyang, in China and after London it will go to Dusseldorf.

Admission to the exhibition at London’s Saatchi Gallery will be free of charge, so there is no reason not to go!

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Article by Rebecca Bourke

Images courtesy of Hermés and 2cvtv

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It has been confirmed that Selfridges, London is to launch the first ever drive through shopping experience in January 2014! Customers will have the option to purchase and reserve online, before collecting at a designated spot at Selfridges without even having to leave their car!

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This on one hand can be seen as revolutionary – Have Selfridges begun a new way of shopping? Will other brands follow suit on this new development? However, there have been some valid points suggested in disagreement with the idea. The average customer of Selfridges will for one be unlikely to live in central London and will commute in for the day using public transport. Secondly, if said customer did live in Central London, the likelihood of them owning a car is low, and driving to Selfridges down a very busy and congested Oxford Street seems an unlikely prospect for a Londoner. Will this new innovation prove successful and popular? We will surely find out.

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Simon Forster, the department store’s multi-channel director has said, ”There will be a dedicated area providing the level of service you would expect from Selfridges. It will not just be the first drive-through service, it will be the best”. Being able to control your order and choose when to pick it up in a queue and hassle free manner would certainly be lovely. Forster added, ‘It’s going to be a pretty slick service. A drive though where you can pick up shoes? Definitely more glamorous than going to get a Big Mac.’

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Images courtesy of Selfridges

Article by Gabby Tuzzeo

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Head to toe stripes are back with a bang! However this time around designers have been experimenting with width, length and colours; they have created an inspiring and current look that has gripped the fashion industry this summer!

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Harrods have embraced the summer trend as a result of Dolce and Gabbana and Ralph Lauren’s sporting stripes in their Spring 2013 collections, where it was predicted that particularly black and white stripes would become a huge success. This has rung true! High street stores have also followed the flattering trend and stripes have become a very popular holiday look this season in River Island and Topshop.

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Stripes have been reinvented, explored and pushed in a new direction. Designers and high street brands have experimented, morphing horizontal and vertical stripes into one design, and alternatively have created quirky designs with bright colours and textures.

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Stripes have previously been associated to limitations and caution in the fashion industry, however the 2013 collections appear to have introduced a free rein on the design. Designers have not held back and the age old fear of horizontal stripes making a person look larger has also appeared to have vanished. This is great news. Stripes are fun, fashionable and funky and we dread the day they disappear from our catwalks again.

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Images courtesy of Grazia and River Island

Article by Gabby Tuzzeo

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The mystique of the Far East is proving to be a hit with many designers this season. Kimono sleeves, obi belts, embroidery and Chinese silk are being used by designers such as Emilio Pucci and Haider Ackermann as they add a dose of Eastern allure and glamour to their collections. Proenza Schouler showcased a fierce and sporty take on the trend by combining a Chinese- embroidered bomber jacket with ankle boots and a sharp knee length skirt.

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Proenza Schouler

Haider Ackermann

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Marni and Stella McCartney decided to show kimono-style suits that had no a hint of any embroidery which just goes to show that this trend can be done subtly. There is no need to revisit the OTT 90s trend of full on Chinese evening dresses.

However, if you are not shy of the Geisha look, you can find Altuzzara and Pucci using traditional techniques like knotting and embroidery for a high-impact style.

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Emilio Pucci

Altuzarra

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This exciting voyage to the East that we have been taken on this Spring/ Summer mirrors the impact that the Eastern market is having on Western designers. Prada has gone all out but with a very modern twist. Large lotus blossoms were all over the clothes which gave them an origami feel.

Along with boxy cuts and folded satin, this girly, beautiful take on the Geisha girl is what dreams of the orient are made of!

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Images courtesy of Vogue, Pucci and Style

Article by Rebecca Bourke

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