Tag Archives: Trends

In Pursuit of the Perfect Winter Boots

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ShopStyle.com unearths the definitive trends for you, revealing the must-have items for the month

finding the perfect boots

Each month ShopStyle, the web’s premier fashion search engine, will reveal a trend that has featured high up, or has made a surprise jump on the search term list. Sian O’Flaherty SHOPSTYLE’s resident Online Shopping Specialist will also offer a lesson in fashion terminology with a glossary of monthly ‘it’ words to help you hone in on that trend.

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It may come as no surprise that over-the-knee, chelsea, knee-high, cut-out and thigh high boots fall in the top search terms this month. Whether it’s burgundy studded leather or moss-green suede, the casual boot is the most coveted footwear staple for autumn/winter 2013.

Sian says “When hunting online for your must-have winter boots try not to panic buy a pair that won’t last the season, yes sorry, that means no Rita Ora style patent thigh-highs please. With so much variety on the market there is something to suit everyone; tall or short, slim or curvy. But before you get booted up, make sure you consider the style, fabric and hue to ensure you choose a style that will help complement your figure.

“Traditionally, knee-high or over-the-knee styles look great on taller women. When wearing either of these styles, try to keep the rest of your outfit simple so your boots make a statement. Shorter women should opt for an ankle or mid-calf length boot to keep their proportions in check.”

Glossary:

In order to track down the right winter boots for you, Sian O’Flaherty has developed a list of terms that will make your fashion shopping experience a whole lot simpler.

“Fashion vernacular is something of a minefield for most of us. Unless your name is Anna Wintour how can you be expected to know what a ‘chunky palladium boot’ is supposed to look like? When we analyse search terms we can see that entering a variety of terms can give fashion hunters the best results. Here are some words of wisdom that will help you think on your feet and hone in on the trend of the month.”

Cuban heel boots have an androgynous style and historically feature in men’s boots. It’s a classic that will take you from one season to next, and looks great with skirts or skinny jeans.

Thigh-high styles are fairly obvious; a flat style can look classy with a wool miniskirt or tartan kilt. I would recommend investing financially if you’re thinking of buying this style, there’s a lot of fabric involved, and so make sure it doesn’t look poor quality.

Riding boots are usually knee high, classic brown or black equestrian style. If you’re channelling a Made In Chelsea style country weekend escape or a trip to the polo, these are the boots for you.

Chelsea boots are a classic, and possibly the most versatile of all the winter boots. They originated in the Victorian era and were used predominantly for horse riding, characterised by its elasticated siding. Investment piece alert!

Cut-out is a style ‘it phrase’ that’s been thrown around frequently of late, but this boot style is exactly that, cut out leather showing your tights or socks underneath. These are best worn with a party dress on a night out.

Biker boots are not as scary as you might think, they are usually flat and have decorative feature like buckles. If your search isn’t locating exactly what you want, try biker, they are not exclusive to hells angels, yummy mummies also look fab in these.

Palladium is equally on-trend in fashion slang this season; a throwback from the 90’s, they come with a chunky rubber sole and usually a chunky heel; we’re seeing lots in velvet this season. Give this a go and hopefully you’ll find ‘the one’.

What will you buy?

In Pursuit of the Perfect Winter Coat

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coat, shopping, winter coat. Finding the perfect winter coat is a time consuming and stressful business. So Frost has gotten ShopStyle to unearth the definitive trends for you, revealing the must-have items for the month

Each month ShopStyle, the web’s premier fashion search engine, will reveal a trend that has featured high up, or has made a surprise jump on the search term list. Gemma Cartwright POPSUGAR Fashion and Beauty Editor, will also offer a lesson in fashion terminology with a glossary of monthly ‘it’ words to help you hone in on that trend.

It may come as no surprise that the 90’s inspired parka, fur collar pea coat or pink wool coat fall in the top search terms this month. Whether it’s magenta mohair or pastel winter wool, the pink coat is the most coveted item for autumn/winter 2013.

Gemma says “When hunting online for your pink coat try not to see everything through rose-tinted glasses and ensure you consider the style, fabric and hue to ensure you don’t end up looking like a giant marshmallow. With so much variety on the market there is something to suit everyone, so if you’re not a girly girl, try a masculine tailored silhouette in a blush pink shade.”

In order to track down the right pink coat for you, Gemma Cartwright has developed a list of terms that will make your fashion shopping experience a whole lot simpler.

“Fashion vernacular is something of a minefield for most of us. Unless your name is Anna Wintour how can you be expected to know what an ‘ovoid mohair boyfriend coat’ is supposed to look like? When we analyse search terms we can see that entering a variety of terms can give fashion hunters the best results. Here are some words that will help you think pink and hone in on the trend of the month.”

Boyfriend coats have an androgynous fit that will glide over your waist and hips, and can be designed in any length. This classic style will take you from one season to next, and can look great with both work wear and skinny jeans and a blouse for a more casual feel.

Oversized styles are fairly obvious, enlarged and masculine; an ideal style to wear over chunky knitwear and extra layers. Try adding a belt for a waist-cinching effect.

Maxi coats are longer length, gender neutral and scantly fitted usually.


Wrap coats are universally flattering on all body types and sizes – think Diane von Furstenburg’s iconic wrap dress. They are unlikely to have buttons, just a wrap around with a belt perhaps.

Cocoon is a style ‘it word’ that’s been thrown around frequently of late, but the cocoon shape coat does exactly that; it envelops you in a cosy, comfortable clinch.

Ovoid meaning egg-shaped, is a new term to the fashion industry this year. Essentially ovoid encompasses all of the above, so if your search isn’t locating exactly what you want, try ovoid.

Coatigan is equally on-trend in fashion slang this season; part wrap, part boyfriend and part oversized. Give this a go and hopefully you’ll find ‘the one’.

Are you inspired? What do you think you will buy?

6 Best Celebrity Designers of 2013

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Which designers are the celebrities clamoring after for 2013? Now that most designers have revealed their creations for spring, summer, and fall, it’s clear the cream rises to the top. Here are the designers celebrities are wearing and what’s so special about their 2013 collections.

1. Anna Sui

Anna Sui

Anna Sui

 

Image via Flickr by CHRISTOPHER MACSURAK

Anna’s designs are frequently spotted on A-list celebrities like Vanessa Hudgens, Ashlee Simpson, Fergie, Nicole Richie, and Miley Cyrus. This spring, Sui introduced her self-titled line “Anna’s Garden.” Though the collection is unmistakably Sui, with her favored Art Nouveau prints (all designed in-house), she’s taken this year’s line to a new level of floral prints. She mixes colors and whites superbly, and the looks she creates are never overdone. Sui creates the perfect fit for celebrities wanting to be on the cutting edge of fashion, but not over the top.

2. DSquared2

DSquared2

DSquared2

 

Image via Flickr by br1dotcom

The team of Dean and Dan Caten currently outfit the likes of style setters Jessica Simpson, Selena Gomez, Alicia Keys, and Halle Berry. For 2013, the design team pays homage to the jazz clubs of Paris in the 1940’s. They combine masculine tailored suits with ultra feminine silk dresses, the epitome of luxury. The ensembles feature basic grays and neutrals as a backdrop for bold, fanciful colors, ideal for the sophisticated Halle Berry’s of Hollywood.

3. Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen

 

Image via Flickr by Romana Correale

McQueen’s collection for 2013 took ideas from the most feminine designs all the way to erotica, so it’s no surprise to see an interesting mix of celebrities donning the outfits. Of course, McQueen was the honored designer to clothe Kate Middleton for her wedding seen ’round the world, but his designs are also popular with the likes of Kate Moss, Lady Gaga, and First Lady Michelle Obama. It’s the perfect balance of modesty to add to your collection of  variety of sexy costumes.

4. Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana

 

Image via Flickr by @Saigon

Enjoyed by starlets Jessica Alba, Scarlett Johansson, Claudia Schiffer, and Madonna, no list of top designers would be complete without Dolce and Gabbana. This year, the collection pays tribute to the festivals of Sicily, featuring raffia flour sack dresses, hair scarves, dresses and chandelier earrings adorned with street theater puppets, and separates bearing designs of Caltagirone vases and dishes.

5. Burberry Prorsum

Burberry Prorsum

Burberry Prorsum

 

Image via Flickr by OiMax

As McQueen, Prorsum ventured into the deep world of sexy this year, yet came out with a good reputation. This collection, enjoyed by Victoria Beckham, Donna Air, Sarah Jessica, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts and others, showcases the joy of erotica. Capes and corsets are the backbone of the collection. Prorsum employs an array of autumn shades with colors hailing from 1930’s era lingerie, such as shell pinks and oyster. These muted colors against bold jewel tones absolutely pop. Satin and cotton sateen fabrics lend a soft touch to the looks.

6. Emporio Armani

Emporio Armani

Emporio Armani

 

Image via Flickr by FuFuWolf

Another staple in top designer lists, Armani dresses celebrities like Lea Michele, Penelope Cruz, Anne Hathaway, and Katie Holmes. This year, the Emporio Armani collection borrowed from all the most relevant fashion eras and brought back the very best, such as drop waist dresses and cloche hats from the Roaring 20’s. The line features faded and pastel shades, which lend femininity to the clean lines and soft shapes of the collection. Even the more tailored pieces are crafted with soft fabrics, creating the illusion of being made of fur.

With these superb collections, it won’t be any problem for celebrities to hit the streets looking runway ready.

This post was written by Shaun Chatman, who is a well published author on many authority sites. He lives in Dunedin, FL, and spends his free time playing with his kids or advising friends on everything from tech and gadgets to finance and travel.

 

High Fashion Without The High Prices

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It’s hard work trying to stay ahead of fashion trends these days. One minute it’s all about pastels, the next it’s all about prints, and then before you know it, somehow tie-dye has made a comeback.

Aside from running out of space to house your growing fashion collections, the downside in trying to keep up is the undoubted effect it has on your bank account.

But, instead of spending a fortune on buying new item after new item from your favourite stores, there are ways you can still get the high fashion look, without paying the high fashion prices.

How? Well, here a few tips that’ll help to make all of those jumpers, boots and dress a little more affordable:

Customize

Do you ever see an item of clothing in the shops and think, “I could make that?” Well, time to get your needle and thread out!

Customizing any existing clothes is the perfect way to stay ahead of trends. Many new trends are often adaptations of old ones – so dig out any old clothes sitting in the back of your wardrobe, grab some sequins and studs, and you’ll be right on trend for this season!

Check Online For Deals

Searching online through voucher discount sites is one of the easiest ways to save money on new fashion trends.

The Internet plays host to a wide range of voucher discount sites who offer money off a wide range of products and services – and fashion is often one of the easiest category’s to gain money off your favourite stores.

By simply typing in what you’re looking for, for example ‘New Look, Dorothy Perkins or Missguided promo code’ you’ll be able to find you a list of codes that’ll either save you money, reward your spending or even give you money off delivery costs!

Charity Shops

No-one ever seems to shop in charity shops anymore, do they? But I’ve lost count of the amount of times I’ve said to someone “that’s a lovely top, where’s it from?” and heard the reply “ah, just from a charity shop”.

You’ll be surprised what good quality items you can find in charity shops these days, and for a fraction of the price of the high street retail stores, you can’t complain if you find a bargain!

Helping a charity, saving money and looking fashionable all in one go? You can’t complain with that, surely!

London Fashion Week Trends: ONEPIECE

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At London Fashion Week I noticed a number of, how to put it, “different” trends on men. One was skirts – not kilts, actual skirts- and another was the onepiece. This reminded me of when I first saw it; on the men of Manchester.

Intro, the long established menswear boutique based on Deansgate in Manchester, has reported that its best seller this winter is Norwegian all- in-one brand, OnePiece.

Manchester men have been following the cult zip -up tracksuit trend, worn so well by soap star, Ryan Thomas; Joey Essex, Micah Richards and Danny Simpson to name just a few male celebrities who have shopped at Intro and embraced this stand out and arguably brave look this winter.

Photo: Ryan Thomas – Corrie’s Jason Grimshaw wearing his Intro bought OnePiece.

Intro has also provided most of the cast of Coronation Street (including female soap stars, Helen Flanagan, Alison King and Shobna Gulati) with their cosy OnePiece and, last week http://www.intro-clothing.com/ reported a last minute rush online for customers getting their orders in before the cold snap kicks in again.

Adam Grant, Intro owner said: “Our customer have literally gone mad for OnePiece, with some customers ordering up to four different colours. It was the best seller at Christmas, and OnePiece has taken loungewear to another level, continuing to fly of the shelves.”

Retail Sales in Clothing and Footwear increases.

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PEG- Retail Sales figures from the Office of National Statistics have been released.

Footfall has declined 1.0 per cent but the overall sales of textile, clothing and footwear increased.

Official figures today reveal promising news for retailers. Data from the Office of National Statistics show sales figures to be considerably higher than the same period last year. With the weather set to take a turn for the worse and more people feeling a pinch in their pockets, online shopping sales have surged as people look for good deals.

The value of retail sales in October 2011 showed an increase of 5.4 per cent compared with October 2010. The total sales volumes in October 2011 increased by 0.9 per cent, in comparison to the same time last year. Further figures revealed that small stores sales figures increased by 5.3 per cent while larger stores, sales figures decreased by 0.3 per cent. Once again, online trading increased its share of total retail, the average weekly spend on online retailing increased to £561.5 million up from £518.7 million in September 2011. Textile, clothing and footwear sales volumes fell by 1.0 per cent however sales value increased by 2.6 per cent over the same period. These figures bode well for retailers, giving them a much needed life line in the in the run up to Christmas.

Kevin Flood, CEO of social shopping leader Shopow (www.shopow.co.uk) said, “Retailers that were desperately in need of a reversal of their fortunes have found that they now have an encouraging platform on which to build in the run up to Christmas. High street stores have had to pull out all the stops to make their shops attractive by reducing prices early and creating imaginative promotions to increase footfall and more activity at the tills. It is still far from plain sailing and there is still a lot of pressure on retailers. As long as business and consumer confidence remains low, the battle will continue to persuade shoppers to return in their droves.

“Online activity has emerged as a vital area that will only continue to grow in importance over Christmas. We are expecting a significant amount of Christmas activity online and those who have introduced innovative shopping tools that make shopping easier and more cost effective will capitalise.”

Social shopping has emerged as an exciting trend in online retailing as many high street stores look to engage consumers. It involves the use of social networking to share recommendations, share discounts, post reviews and ask for advice on products before purchase.

Mike Harty COO of Shopow said “Regular web shoppers are now empowered to talk about their purchases in an honest way. Social shopping with Shopow enables shoppers to use their trusted networks to make informed decisions but also makes online shopping more interactive and enjoyable.”

New Dance Trends bring us Indie Ballet {Frost Fitness}

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Hot on the satin-clad heels of Black Swan, everyone’s keen to try ballet, but classical music’s not to everyone’s taste. Enter the latest ballet trend – Indie Ballet.

This shock new ballet style is all about the music – classic ballet pirouettes, pique and twirls blended with rocky indie tunes to make a totally unique style of dance, movement and entertainment.  Professional dancers and public alike will be merging jaw-dropping splits to music from the likes of Razorlight, The Futureheads, Franz Ferdinand, and Gomez.

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Indie Ballet isn’t the only new trend out there. Some of the others that are tipped to be hot on the dance floor this year are…

Waaking. Originating from the US, the Waaking phenomenon will be sweeping our nation due to its cool new funk style.  Inspired by Madonna’s ‘Vogueing’, this underground street dance movement is much faster and packs even more attitude, style and passion.

Heyday Dance. Rewind the clock – 1920s, 30s, 40s, 50s – the choice is yours.  End of war celebrations were the heydays, now this retro dance style is destined to be the top trend for  next year.  Heavily influenced by vintage fashion, think old skool dance halls, flappers, tea dances and Fred Astaire. It’s a classic with a twist for 2011!

Iconic 1980s. The Flashdance era is back!  Big hair, loud clothes, leg warmers and dramatic movements form the basis of this iconic 80’s dance movement.

Cheerleading. Cheerleading? We say, Bring It On!  With Glee hitting our screens to mass popularity and recent visits from the amazing NFL and NBA dance troupes, American cheering will be infiltrating dance studios across the country.

Move It 2011’s Creative Director, George Harper comments:

“The top trends this year really reflect the fact that people want to have fun and inject their workout with a new twist. If it is ballet, add a new soundtrack. Aerobics? Add an 80’s dance twist. Also people love dressing up so the vintage styles like Charleston and Lindy Hop really allow you to work a look while you workout. Cheerleading is my biggest tip – this is already a massive scene in the UK that few people know about. It will be THE craze in 2011 and it’s not just for girls – boys are getting in on the action too!”

Try out Indie Ballet and other classes at Move It from 11th-113th March at London Olympia.

Five of the Best Gloves AW10-11 {Fashion}

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You’ve got your faux fur, your cape, your hat with animal ears, it’s almost spring but not quite and there’s still a chill in the air. So chilly that writing emails on our berrys on the go becomes a chore too much. So what’s a girl to do for her frosty fingers? Well we’ve found 5 of the toastiest and we think you’ll like them too…

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Asos “Mango Balm Bow” Glove, £38

If chic and ladylike is something you’d like to call your sense of style then these might be the ones for you. Leather with a press stud fastening and bows on the wrists.

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Top Shop Rust Faux Fur Trim Cable Knit Gloves, £16

Old school nostalgia brought up to date with tactile faux fur trim. Thread them through your coat for that feeling of having never grown up.

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Asos Sheepskin Gloves, £19

Want your digits to be extra warm? These will probably do the trick. Sheepskin gloves from Asos with a thick pile cuff. Like hugging a sheep, but with less confusion and bleating.

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All Saints Ambrin Gloves, £25

These fine knit Cashmere/Wool gloves with ruching and tassle details are the sensible, stylish and yet somehow trendy option. Go smart, go casual, scrunch them up and pop them in your handbag without taking up too much room.

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Miss Selfridge Grey Long Button Gloves, £10

These woolen gloves from Miss Selfridge will keep your hands and your wrists warm. They also come in black you say?

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