Spotlight on menswear

Apr 19, 2013 by blackbook

London Collections Men -The first full men’s fashion week to be hosted in London, took place at the beginning of the year. It meant that menswear in the UK’s capital is no longer the poor cousin of the women’s wear iconic fashion week: time that was tagged onto the end of the spectacle when seemingly everyone else is packing away the main show. Instead, every major fashion capital of the world (except New York) now has a standalone event dedicated to men’s fashion. The Council of Fashion Designers in America appears to be more seriously working towards hosting its own event and the recent success of New York’s women’s fashion week should only strengthen the desire to catch up with the rest of the world. Men’s fashion is now being given the recognition it deserves, but what does this say about the way your average person is viewing his attire?

A few years ago, the idea of the ‘normal’ man using moisturiser or wearing concealer provoked a derisory response. Now, the idea of men not being committed to a daily beauty regime appears fanciful; they have skin too so why should they not look after it? Likewise, the ability to choose a clothing style from a broader (and more creative) offering seems natural in that it can only engender individuality and provide an easier means of expressing a distinct personality outwardly. It is ingrained in the Milanese that menswear should be afforded the same showcase status as women’s wear receives across the globe, and rightly so.

London Collections Men highlighted how creative menswear can be and represented a statement of intent to the fashion world. It tested the boundaries of what is acceptable for everyday dressing in much the same way as London Fashion Week does for women’s clothing and, in the process, will inspire thousands.

New York take note!

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Gallagher’s Pretty Green is looking for a new home

Mar 29, 2013 by blackbook

One half of the dynamic brotherly duo who launched the band Oasis and gave us hits such as ‘Wonderwall’, Liam Gallagher, is keeping himself busy with other creative outlets. Not only is he the front man and brains behind new band, Beady Eye, he has also launched and designed his own fashion label, named Pretty Green.

The brand is home-grown, British men’s fashion at its most stylish and boasts two distinct lines. Green Label delivers casual, wearable signature pieces for every day dress. Black Label uses the finest fabrics, the highest quality and most innovative British tailoring. Not limited to garments, Pretty Green produces footwear, eyewear and accessories too and has enjoyed particular popularity with the Japanese as well as the UK menswear market.

The label has outlets in London’s Covent Garden and Carnaby Street and is embarking on an expansion plan to open a total of 12 stores throughout the UK. The first shop, according to Gallagher, is a flagship store in London’s most highly sought-after retail district, Regent Street.

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London Fashion Week preview

Mar 2, 2013 by blackbook

London Fashion Week is upon us once again, and fresh from the shows of New York, fashion editors across the globe will be waiting with baited breath to see what has inspired some of the world’s leading design houses this season. Widely known as the most innovative fashion week of the season, London is likely to play host to some of the most modern collections seen on the catwalks this year, as well as showcasing the talent of smaller designers who will be coveted for years to come.

The rise of London Fashion Week has not only put the capital on the map as a serious contender to be considered in the same breath as Milan, New York and Paris, but it is a significant economy in its own right. Orders placed during Fashion Week run into hundreds of millions of pounds, which in turn, enables the UK to invest more in its young designers and into the industry generally. In addition to this, the money invested in hospitality, the creative industries to host shows, advertising, marketing and retail, the impact multiplies exponentially. Visitors are coming to invest in conspicuous luxury brands and, in the process, they are investing in the whole economy, therefore it suddenly becomes clear why a superstar designer knows the importance of moving their show from one fashion week to another.

For now, London is the chic city for Fashionistas, for both the clothes and the wider benefits they bring, so long may it continue.

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Ringspun and its creative, edgy British design

Feb 16, 2013 by blackbook

British fashion is, undoubtedly, cutting edge. Our beloved British fashion designers produce an eclectic and innovative array of styles, which have earned Britain a reputation for creating eccentric and bold designs. The styles and designs of the popular British fashion brand, Ringspun, certainly provide that funky, edgy look that Brits are known for in the fashion world.

Its classic cuts, yet casual urban designs have given Ringspun the reputation that it deserves. Quality, innovative styles make this independent designer extremely popular with many celebrities. These signature pieces are clearly inspired by its Manchester origins.

We are indeed fortunate enough in the UK to be blessed with many amazing famous fashion designers. Ted Baker’s beautiful, tailored designs are popular with both men and women. He is known for well-cut suits and casual, trendy leisure wear with unique prints and designs. Of course, there is the late, talented Alexander McQueen. A somewhat unconventional designer, McQueen throughout his short life earned himself an amazing reputation as a talented designer. His designs have been worn by many celebrities, and his style has been transferred to high street. Try wearing things a little offbeat instead of conforming to the mainstream sense of style, and you are on your way to the McQueen style.

The beauty of Britain is its ability to create and inspire new designers and new innovative brands such as Ringspun. This relative newcomer to the fashion industry is proving extremely popular, and its brand presence is certainly strong. Ringspun is making a name for itself and earning some loyal followers, which is not surprising because its bold and creative designs are making a real statement in the world of fashion.

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Every woman’s must-have accessories

Jan 15, 2013 by blackbook

There are some accessories that every woman must have for her wardrobe to be complete. Thanks to their versatility, these basic accessories help to complement a woman’s outfit on every occasion.

Black or brown belt

Preferably made from leather, a woman’s belt should be black or brown in colour to ensure that it can be worn with most outfits. Such a belt will lend a touch of class to any outfit and its durability ensures that it can be used over and over again.

Neutral-coloured leather handbag

A woman’s handbag serves both a practical and aesthetic purpose; it holds her essential everyday items, while also setting-off her outfit. No woman should be without this essential item.

Floppy hat

A large, floppy hat comes in handy in summer. When chosen in a neutral colour, such as black, it can be worn with just about any summer outfit and will serve to keep you cool, while at the same time adding an element of fun to your outfit.

Woman’s scarf

A woman’s scarf, especially in a neutral colour, can be paired with any outfit, whether neutral or colourful to add a touch of elegance. Its versatility and simplicity makes it one of the most trusted accessories for every woman.

Nude/Opaque Tights

It’s not always possible to go for bare legs even in the summer, plus some women prefer to wear tights. Pretty Polly tights come in a wide range of colours and styles. If you want to glam it up then there are also a good selection of patterned tights which can finish off a plain outfit.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are another accessory that serves a utilitarian and cosmetic purpose. They help protect the eyes from damaging UV rays, while also making the wearer look positively glamorous. It is important to invest in sunglasses that complement one’s face.

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Go urban with White Label

Nov 24, 2012 by blackbook

Urban casuals have never before enjoyed the popularity they do today. From casual chinos to hoodies, from jeans to jackets, the relaxed dress code is in. Office workers and partygoers are leaning toward practical, comfortable clothing that can be used to create a personal style and White Label creates clothes that do exactly that. White Label clothes are laid back, contemporary designs for the young at heart.

Cool is in

The new arrivals at White label have a distinct urban edge to them, contrasting lilac, red and marine blue hoodies against classic denim and chinos. The new line pays homage to traditional styles and colours, with classic straight fit jeans and natural grey t-shirts, while creating fresh and exciting designs that include the narrow-stripe t-shirt, pale blue chinos and cobalt blue Mac jacket. In keeping with the urban ‘bad-boy’ theme, White Label also features an exciting range of shorts, roll-up jeans and zip-through hoodies. Along with these great designs, the brand also has affordable prices, ranging from £8.00 to £28.00. Some of the company’s best-selling items include their blue-grey zip-through hoodie and Navy blue city blazer.

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