LONDON FASHION WEEK 2012 - 'ALL WHITE' BUT NOT STUNNING

OK, so what happened to London Fashion Week 2012? The extravagance and drama was distinctively lacking for me this year.  Where was the outrageous, the crazy, the shock factor, the jaw dropping OMG pieces?

Well, I suppose Sister by Sibling provided the fun element with their frankly bizarre lacy masks and pompom headwear accessorising a young and funky womenswear collection but I had started to worry I might get a touch of snowblindness with all the white going on this year.

Marios Schwab finally sprinkled a confetti of colour on proceedings, bringing an oasis to the desert of blandness! His collection is full of bold colours and lots of extravagant fringing. The make up was fab too. Hurray for Marios Schwab, I say.

More colour came from Matthew Williamson’s tie dyed collection in Day 3, offering an ethnic look for next summer. I hope this filters down to the high street, it takes me back to my student days and makes me feel a hell of a lot younger.

It does seem though that white is going to be the ‘hot’ colour of Spring/Summer 2013 – but don’t expect me to be wearing it. I already look like a ghost and my whites stay white about 30 seconds regardless of what Ariel and Persil might have you believe.

Another recurrent feature of the show was the hemlines, with lots of designers giving their dresses and skirts an asymmetric shape.  I can live with that – it’s not often that I wear skirts myself anyway – but I do struggle with asymmetric garments when I’m creating my own designs. It’s like seeing a skew whiff painting on the wall, it just has to be straightened. Maybe I should jump out of my comfort zone and give it a go one day? I can feel the stress levels rising just thinking about it!

Pretty darn cool and definitely my favourite this year was Fashion East. Showcasing on Day 2, they are definitely worth a peek if you like the punky look and Todd Lynn gets a thumbs up from moi for his elegant yet quirky designs. Some wicked jackets there. Vivienne Westwood, always one to follow - well she is just uber cool. What else is there to say?

London Fashion Week 2012 – generally a bit disappointing in my humble opinion – but what do I know?

WEATHER WOES – WHAT THE HECK’S GOING ON?

This changing weather here in the UK is giving me some serious grief. One minute I’m lounging in the garden wearing my sunnies and shorts and the next I’m wrapping up in extra layers, making British Gas happy, and waiting for the next downpour.

So there was me in March, heading into the horrible itchy scratchy fibreglass-filled hole that is my attic, to retrieve my summer stuff ( much earlier than usual) ,only for the cold wintery weather to return just a couple of weeks later. Several weeks of constant rain followed and then wham bam, here’s the sunshine again, smiling sarcastically at us like it had never abandoned us in the first place before the smile was wiped quickly off its round yellow face once more.

I usually have a fantastic crop of tomatoes coming out this time of year – you – weather, have ensured that only three of my seeds actually sprouted this year! You’ve drowned my strawberries, killed off my lettuce, and probably turned my tatties into mush too. And, damn you, you’ve made the dandelions in my lawn grow at a rate of knots at a time when I can’t even venture outside to mow the lawn for fear of electrocuting myself!

As for my creativity level - well, you've washed it down the drain. Grey skies just make me want to hibernate under my quilt where it's nice and cosy.

Rain, I’m bored of you. We’re all bored of you. Please sun, can you come back soon? And this time, will you at least stay a few months? I have work to do...

FABRIC FIASCOS - MY PET HATES

If you happen to be in the vicinity of my studio and you hear some serious cursing going on, you can pretty much guess that I have: a) stabbed myself with a pin, b) cut myself on a rotary cutter, or c) am being harassed by a piece of fabric.

Pins and sharp objects are obvious workplace dangers when you are a fashion designer (I’ll never forget my fashion tutor’s famous words “never walk around with pins in your mouth” while walking round with pins in her mouth; come on, we all do it!), but fabric is what gives me more headaches than anything.

I have my personal pet hates and the biggest culprit is stretch velvet. As soon as you cut it, it starts to curl up at the edges then, after you have carefully pinned your pieces together and start sewing, the fibres rub against each other and start “walking” so by the time you get to the end one piece is several inches longer than the other! I confess to have had several tantrums over this. Duck! Flying velvet heading your way!

I remember once making a black furry gilet with a fabulous fabric that looked like poodle fur. The finished result was fantastic, but I was hoovering up the fibres created when cutting out the pieces for months. It was like they’d managed to float around the house. They were everywhere. Atchooooooo!

Then there are delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon. Seriously, you only need to throw them a passing glance before a snag mysteriously appears. Chiffon is so fine, it’s an art form in itself trying to sew it before it falls apart. I avoid it like the plague.

Polyester lining fabrics are awful to work with too, because the mere sniff of an iron makes them shrink so by the time you attempt to attach it to your main fabric, it’s several sizes smaller. And if you aren’t in the know, you could end up with the type that causes electric shocks from static build up. Ouch!

I love working with denim and cotton drill because they don’t fray, don’t curl, don’t snag, but even they are not without their issues. On a side seam of a pair of jeans for example, there could be 12 layers of fabric folded over each other and sewing machines can struggle to go through them. You need a pretty durable sewing machine to cope with this or you end up with skipped stiches or the machine simply refuses to go over it.

And have you ever considered the amount of work that goes into matching up patterned fabric pieces? This takes considerable patience and planning and often leaves you with lots of wasted material.

So, we fashion designers have to employ all sorts of tactics to counter these problems. Fabrics, wherever possible, need to be pre-shrunk, either by washing, ironing or both, before cutting begins. Tedious? Oh yes. We creatives like to get stuck into the task in hand, and all this prepping is a pain!

Depending on the fabric we are using, the style we are creating, we have to select the right kind of thread, the right type of sewing machine needle, the correct stitch type and length (and sometimes also width). We have to consider the best way of holding fabric pieces together when sewing to prevent ‘walking’, stretching, and other issues. When pins can’t be used because they could leave holes in the fabric, other techniques need to be used – mini bulldog clips, stabilising fabrics and tape are just a few possibilities.

Fortunately, I own a couple of useful books that give an insight into pretty much all types of fabrics, detailing their qualities and quirks with recommendations on how to work with them to avoid all their respective pitfalls. They even give tips on how to wash/care for each type of fabric. So if you need a fabric bible, I’d suggest you take a look at either Fabric Savvy or More Fabric Savvy by Sandra Betzina.

TARQ BOWEN TAKES MOSQUITO HEAD UK TO NEW YORK

Folk musician Tarq Bowen jetted off to new York earlier this month to shoot a video for his new track Percival Brown, armed with his amazing resonator guitar, harmonica and a specially made outfit by Mosquito Head UK suitably topped off by his iconic bowler hat.

Here he is strumming away in a park, doing a rendition of one of  his earlier songs, Man Like Me. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRO1XaCujRo

Watch out for the official Percival Brown video which I’ll post as soon as it’s available. Oooh, exciting stuff!

ROCK CHICK FASHION

Check out a video showing selected designs from my Looks That Kill collection featuring garments made from bright leatherette combined with bold jersey tops and leggings. The video was filmed and produced by Mista SmiffTV with models Emoke Stokes and Elena Luzaic. Filmed in Birmingham UK. All items in the video plus more garments from the collection are available to purchase from Mosquito Head UK's shop at www.fashionkillerz.com.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hp-Esg6ZYhA&feature=youtu.be

ALTERNATIVE SWIMWEAR - TIME TO GET OUT THE BIKINIS GIRLS!

Sunshine! Hurray, at last it is back with a vengeance. OK so I’m going to make the most of it, just in case the horrendous weather makes a comeback. Sunglasses – check. Suntan lotion – check. Sandals – check. Bikini…………OMG! Do I really have to?

I’m sure I’m not the only woman secretly cringing about shedding the layers of clothes that cover up their ‘flaws’ – the humps and bumps that essentially make them a woman!

A recent survey by cosmetics giant, Garnier, confirmed what we’ve known for ages:  women are obsessed by their bodies. Researchers surveyed 3,000 18-40 year old women in the UK, Australia and the US, and found that seven per cent thought about their bodies 50 times a day and 20 per cent thought about it 10 times a day.

Tummies were their least favourite part of the body followed by their butts. Almost half – 46 per cent of women who were surveyed - said they wanted to be firmer and flatter around their middle, with twenty per cent wanting a better bum. Surely the fact that the majority of us are fretting about our flabby bits just proves that what we see as ‘imperfect’ is simply the norm; who said we are supposed to have washboard stomachs and pert bottoms in order to be perfect?

Other parts of the body are also a source of unhappiness, with 10 per cent not happy with their breasts, 14 per cent not happy with their legs and four per cent wanting to change the way their arms look.

So stop worrying about baring your body and treat yourself to a stunning new swimsuit, you are a perfectly normal, sexy woman, so go for it. All you need to do is choose the style that suits your body type. I’m no expert on the subject, but it makes sense that if you are the proud owner of a rounded tum or a large butt, then wearing the skimpiest bikini bottoms you can find will simply let it all hang out – not a good look. Find a top that supports and flatters; a string bikini worn by a woman with Jordanesque boobs – again not a good look. Get the picture?

If you want to stand out on the beach for all the right reasons, then check out a range of alternative swimwear by UK designers ATROPOS and Dancing Dolls UK. Both have created very different and unique styles which you won’t find on the high street but you can find them online at www.fashionkillerz.com.

Just as an afterthought, did you know that preferred styles of beachwear differ from one country to the next?  I just stumbled upon this bit of info that I thought I’d share with you. This came from another recent study conducted by INVISTA, the manufacturer of the Lycra® fiber which reveals the habits of 2,576 swimwear shoppers in Brazil, France, Italy, Germany, United Kingdom and United States.

- Italy: tops the list of bikini wearers.
- UK: tops the list of one-piece wearers.
- US: tops the list for tankini wearers.
- France: prefer delicate fabrics and prints.
- Germany: spend the most on beachwear on average (27% spend between US$61 - US$100 per swimsuit)
- Brazil: demand the most quality from their suits (68% name quality as top factor in the buying decision), followed by Americans (49%) and Germans (48%)

I guess I’m not your stereotypical English woman in this respect then as it’s tankini all the way for me. Covers up a multitude of sins, don’t you know!

New collection from Mosquito Head launches at Alter Me Up fashion show

Fashion Killerz designer Mosquito Head UK launches her new collection, 'Stereotypes' at the Alter Me Up fashion and music show on Friday 30th March.

Taking place from 7.30pm on Friday 30 March at The Asylum Venue, on Great Hampton Street in Birmingham, the Alter Me Up show will showcase the work of ten new and established designers from across the Midlands.

Organised jointly by Enviious Events and Erf Music, the show will also feature dramatic sketches, dance and entertainment by Pyro Productionz, and four live bands which will play after the show.

Stereotypes is a collection of bold ladies wear and also Mosquito Head's first venture into menswear. The collection embodies the designer's bold statement styles and includes a number of unique one-off pieces that are sure to make you stand out from the crowd. Keep an eye on the What's New link on our homepage to find out when they are available or join our facebook page where you'll be able to see pics from the show soon after the event. www.facebook.com/fashionkillerz1

The performing bands on the night include :-

Headliners Gehtika – genre Metal

This Elegant Chaos - genre Rock

Silent Jack - genre Hard Rock

Left For Red – genre Heavy Metal.

Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase a range of unique clothing and jewellery from a selection of designer stalls that will be open during the event.

Jennifer Sutton, manager at Enviious Events, said: “This show will bring together some of the most exciting local fashion designers in an event that celebrates the diversity of the alternative scene. As it’s such a broad genre, we’ve been able to secure some amazing designers, each with their own individual style. They’ve created some stunning work for the show including include Burlesque, latex and steampunk styles; historically inspired garments; alternative swimwear, jewellery and even a batman themed collection.

“Everyone involved - from designers, models, make-up artists, musicians and photographers - has worked really hard in preparation to make this show a success and we can promise an evening packed full of drama, creativity and music.”

Doors open at 7.30. Tickets purchased in advance are priced £8, or cost £10 on the door (£13 after 9.30) and can be purchased at http://altermeuprunway.eventbrite.co.uk/.

Sizing - aaaaaargh!

Ok, so you ask someone what size they are and they tell you they are either a 10, 12 or 14 depending where they shop. Isn't it about time all clothing was made to the same sizing structure so we didn't have to take 3 different sizes into the changing rooms?

Thank God then for the European Directive which is trying to get all designers singing from the same song sheet. My Mosquito Head brand is now working to their sizing EN13402-3. You can see the EN size chart on this link... http://media.wiley.com/product_data/excerpt/72/14051756/1405175672.pdf

http://media.wiley.com/product_data/excerpt/72/14051756/1405175672.pdf

media.wiley.com

At the moment this is a voluntary scheme but surely it's in everyone's interest that we all stick to the same structure - whether you are a designer or a buyer?

INSIDE OUT – THE LIFE OF A FASHION DESIGNER - PART 2

In part 2 of my series looking at the paths taken by emerging designers, I'm focusing on Elephtheria Xenos.

Elephtheria is not only a fashion designer, she also personally designs and prints her own fabrics which gives her an additional unique selling point. Her prints, along with her clothing, is inspired by everything vintage as well as everything around her and she is a fan of Calvin Klein and Dolce & Gabanna due to the simplicity of their designs.

So how did she start out?  “I began studying fashion at college” she said. “It was something I loved doing and I received the highest grades in my college year which was why I decided to take a degree in it at Derby University.”

She added: “I really enjoy designing my garments then seeing them take shape as they’re made up. My designs are made from jersey or my own printed fabrics and I also like to mix the jersey with woven printed fabric to create contracting textures.

“It’s our in-house designed fabrics that make the brand unique along with our customisation service – we give our customers the opportunity to choose their own fabric, sleeve and neckline style, length of garment, etc, giving them a real input into their garment. I feel it’s important to get the right fit and you can’t get this with any high street brand. All our garments are couture and made to a very high standard.”

So what’s it like on a daily basis? “It is hectic; apart from the web development site, I do everything. I do the PR, designing, pattern cutting, grading fabric design, sourcing, events, everything and it’s a nightmare trying to organise myself and prioritise all my tasks.”

Elephtheria says it’s sometimes challenging to organise her team but with lots of effort, the work gets done in time. However, her biggest struggle at the moment is raising awareness of her brand.  “I’m working hard to get featured on as many blogs and get involved in as many fashion shows as possible in order to overcome this,” she said.

Keep an eye on the Fashion Killerz Facebook page for details of her forthcoming events.

How did she get involved with designing her own fabrics? Elephtheria explained: “As I was going through my degree in Fashion Design, I would always design my own fabric. I would always have an image of the print and colour of the fabric I would want to use, so it was harder for me to try and find this vision of my fabric so I created it instead. I didn’t have any training for this but as I finished university, I looked into design and print design jobs and landed my first job working with a freelance designer who taught me all I know about print design. I managed to sell my prints to Japan and America. This was something I did to bring money in while I was building by business.”

She continued: “I’m really proud that my business is now up and running and I now need to keep up with all that comes with fashion, making sure releases are sent in time, planning for my next collection, trying to get involved in shows. It takes a lot of organisation.”

And what does the future hold? Elephtheria has big plans. “I aspire to become well known for my customisation, design and fabric design. I would like to be known for doing something different.”

Well, I’ve seen Elephtheria’s collections at a number of fashion shows and I can vouch that they have a sophisticated simplicity and they are superbly finished. You can buy a selection of her garments at www.fashionkillerz.com.

INSIDE OUT – THE LIFE OF A FASHION DESIGNER - PART 1

What does it take to be a fashion designer? What routes can you take? What are the challenges and highlights? I’ll be aiming to find out in a series of blogs in which I talk to some of those who are living the dream.

First up is Tamara Joseph.

Is fashion design in your blood? Possibly. Tamara knew wanted to be a fashion designer since the tender age of seven, inspired by both her mum and gran who were both keen self- taught pattern cutters. At this early age Tamara’s mum taught her how to use a sewing machine and by the age of nine she was following and adapting patterns from Prima magazine.

At the age of 13 she started working in a boutique, owned by a close family friend, where she learnt about formal wear and marketing. At the same age, and at the more casual end of the fashion spectrum, she started making MC Hammer style pants (which was all the rage for both sexes back in those days – thank God fashions have changed!) and sold them to her school mates for £10 per pair, making £8 profit each time.  Highly entrepreneurial!

Tamara then embarked on the traditional route to becoming a designer, enrolling on an ND Fashion course , followed by an HND , then a BA where she created a menswear collection for BHS Graduate week. Whilst on her HND she undertook a six month work placement with designer Bella Freud and carried out projects with Ben Di Lisi, Paul Smith, Daks Simpson, and Bon Marche. She was also taught design by Yorkshire-based designer Kevan Jon.

She later worked for various retailers in a management role before going freelance for an interior design company, dressing show houses.

Tamara said: “Whilst freelancing, I started to study teaching and got a job as Fashion and Textiles Technician at Solihull College. I continued to study to be a teacher and within three months I’d started teaching there. I left the college with a PGCE and a Diploma in photography and got a job with the University of Wolverhampton as Senior Fashion Technician. I decided to study for my Masters Degree in Art and Design - Fashion and textiles and a little glass. At the same time, I was accepted on a business placement called S.P.E.E.D (Students Placement Entrepreneur In Education). The placement gave me confidence in my work again, gave me access to mentors, advice and funding to start my own business. Two years on, I’ve just completed my MA and am due to graduate in February 2012. Business is booming. Today, as well as continuing to design my own collections, I’m also Course Leader of Fashion and Clothing at New College Nottingham.

Tamara has taken part in various shows and exhibitions, including Clothes Show Live and her biggest dream ever - London Fashion Week' and African Fashion Week. In September 2011, she will be also be showcasing at Artfest-Birmingham. Phew! Where does she find the time?

So, what are Tamara’s inspirations? “Well, I can’t say I have a favourite designer, as this would mean never disagreeing with their collection choices. Instead. I like elements of different designers such as Issey Miyake's silhouettes, Oswald Boatengs’ sharpness, Comme de Garcon’s style, Hussain Chaylan's surfaces and Paul Smith's prints…Victoria Beckham’s elegance. I'm always changing.”

I think Tamara’s view here is entirely correct. Many Fashion courses require you to study a particular designer and keep an eye on current trends, but personally, I think this stifles your own creativity. Of course, if you aim to work for a high street fashion chain, then keeping up to date with what’s ‘in’ is vital, but if you want to become an independent designer and have free rein, then I think it’s better to try not to be too influenced by the work of other people.

“Life is my main inspiration” adds Tamara. “The things I see, photography, my own experiences, watching people, listening to people, the list is endless. Working with new emerging designers and seeing their drive and ambition is always inspiring; I just love bouncing energy off them. My Mum and my partner, Robert, are my biggest inspirations as they have always supported and encouraged me even when my work has meant that I’ve had less time to dedicate to them and their needs.”

Tamara has certainly created her own style, often incorporating her own photographic images in her designs, giving them a totally unique look and this combines her two passions beautifully. “I’m known for my bold prints and although I’ve designed and created many a collection without print, I get more excited about seeing my collection when I do include print as most designers that usually showcase with me rarely use this,” she comments.

What are the down sides to the business? Tamara says that as an emerging designer, she’s forever trying to compete to be noticed and that her biggest downfall is comparing her own work with that of other designers. However, she appreciates that they, too, will have faced their own problems and, like her, will probably have spent many years struggling to make a name for themselves. It’s a tough industry, that’s for sure. And one that demands commitment and time as well as a good eye for style and sound design skills.

Tamara continues: “While self evaluation is a positive thing to do, looking at the bigger picture makes you more stable. When I first started, I was trying to make a collection every season like the big designers but struggled to keep up because a) they have a team behind them, b) they have financial backing, c) they have already generated a reputation and d) they have time as they don’t have to take on another job at the same time to pay the bills.

“Now, I’ve come to accept that although there’s a lot of competition out there, it is not a competition; you can only give what you’ve got,. My advice is be patient and believe in yourself. It’s better to be known for brilliant work and an outstanding collection that people remember positively than to be remembered  for really poor work.

“Time has been a huge pressure for me and one of my major challenges has been the heavy work load of the fashion shows  (she will have taken part in 14 by the end of this year alone) while  studying for my Masters at the same time. It takes over your life and can make you forget about all the people you care about if you’re not careful!”

And finally, what is Tamara’s dream for the future? “Mostly it’s to have the financial backing which would allow me to make more extravagant collections and I’d also love to team up with or employ another designer with the same dreams, passions and energy as myself.”

Well, I love your work Tamara and I’ve always admired your dedication, I know we’ll see a lot more of you in the coming years.

Tamara designs a range of womens and menswear. Many of her items can be purchased at www.fashionkillerz.com. Take a look.

http://www.fashionkillerz.com/seller-products/25/1/

DRESS YOUR AGE! SAYS WHO?

I’m so bored of hearing the phrase “dress your age!” It’s never been aimed at me personally, but who gives anyone the right to tell you what you should and shouldn’t wear!

Surely, it’s a matter of common sense to wear clothes that flatter your best bits and disguise the less attractive ones, rather than being  a matter of obligation that if you’re past 40 you shouldn’t wear a mini skirt or if you’re past 60 you shouldn’t wear a swimming costume on the beach?

OK, I know there are some people who wear totally inappropriate, tasteless, clothes – I watch Jeremy Kyle (ahem) - but If you look good in it and feel comfortable in it, go ahead and wear it. Just make sure you take a good look in the mirror first and if you are still unsure whether or not you look plain stupid in an outfit, just ask a friend who will give you an honest, no holds barred opinion. There really are no rules to be followed.

I’m 44 and I’ve got no intention of turning to twinsets and pearls – not till I’m at least 80. OK, I doubt I’ll be wearing tight jeans and killer heels by then but for now, I’ll wear what I choose and if you don’t like it, tough!

Check out these images currently circulating showing how NOT to do fashion!!! Thankfully these are the exceptions… Seriously  ladies, we really do not want to see your flabby bits, cellulite, boobs, bums or naff tattoos. Friends, if you ever see me looking like one of these Walmart women, please, please slap me hard!

LOOK GOOD, FEEL GREAT

We all suffer from low self confidence from time to time – perhaps a relationship breakdown has left you feeling unattractive, maybe you’ve been made redundant and you’re struggling to get a new job, perhaps you’ve been ill and are feeling low.

At times like this, we tend to let ourselves go a bit and this only exacerbates your feelings, but one thing that is guaranteed to perk you up is a new look.

Get yourself a new hairdo, buy a new outfit, treat yourself to some new fashion accessories. It’s a well known fact that if you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, you can walk tall and take on the world. Show your ex what he’s missing, grab yourself that job, feel instantly better.

While you don’t need to do a Madonna or Lady GaGa and totally reinvent yourself, just a few simple changes will often do the trick. Don’t be fooled… you’ve probably seen pictures of the stars, snapped without make up and looking almost unrecognisable from their usual stunning selves. They don’t always look picture perfect (and when they do they’ve usually been airbrushed to within an inch of their lives!), we all have our off days, we are all just human.

Check out the unique clothing, jewellery and accessories at Fashion Killerz for some great confidence boosting ideas. All items have been made by independent designers but come without the designer price tag so you can look amazing without breaking the budget.

OK, well I’ve had the new hairdo, feeling more confident already. Watch out world – here I come!

Drama Queen

Sorry about my absence of late but I've been busy working on my very first collection, under my brand name Mosquito Head UK, which was showcased at the NLSVIP Fashion Show in Birmingham at the weekend.

I called the collection Drama Queen as each of the ten items was made of recycled theatre drapes which were destined for landfill. The collection involved a lot of tailoring to give a sharp look to the garments which were based on a rockstar theme and involved plain cotton fabrics - white and kingfisher blue - embellished with bold detailing, including contrasting cord, eyelets, sparkly beads and dramatic dragon wings. Many of the outfits were finished with matching accessories - big cuffs and beaded chokers.

Although I've had individual items modelled on a catwalk in the past, including the NEC Clothes Show, this was the first time I've shown a collection so it involved lots of late nights, lots of experimentation, a fair few disasters, and erm.... quite a lot of tantrums (it's a creative thing!), particularly as I only had a couple of weeks to design and create my final four outfits . It didn't help that I managed to spill a cup of coffee over one of the dresses that I'd spent two days creating.

So the day of the show arrived and I was more than a little nervous. I still hadn't been allocated a model for one of the outfits and we hadn't at that point, and in fact never had, a dress rehearsal. It was tense... lots of models milling around, hair and make up artists at work, designers... so much so that I popped over the road for a swift drink with my friends who'd turned out to support me.

Fortunately, all the models were a lot calmer than me and somehow managed to put on a professional show. I have to say, they were amazing. Unfortunately, as the designer, I never got to see it as I was backstage making sure all the models were zipped up/laced in and accessorised. Apparently, the audience reaction was great though, so all my hard work was worth the effort.

Now, I need to come up with some ideas for my next collection which I'm hoping will be bigger and better. I guess I should stop waffling on here then and make a start!

Hope you like my collection which is available exclusively at www.fashionkillerz.com along with that of fellow designer Tamara Joseph who also showed her stunning new collection at the event.

LET'S START A REAL WOMEN REVOLUTION

I‘ve been invited to take part in a fashion show at the end of the month and went along to meet the models for a casting on Sunday. I have to say, I was a little worried as I expected them all to be 10ft stick insects but I was pleasantly surprised. While those designers making more loose fitting outfits could get away with using really skinny models, most of my garments are fitted so they really need a body inside them that puts curves where they are supposed to be.

The NLSVIP Show (28 May at the Drum in Birmingham) doesn’t use agency models, rather they use local girls who fancy strutting their stuff on the catwalk, perhaps just as an exciting thing to do or maybe because they want an opportunity to get some experience under their belt that will help them find work in the model industry.  But hallelujah, they are REAL women. There were ladies there of all sizes and it made me think – we really should celebrate women’s curves and not force professional models to live on a maximum of three grapes and a cream cracker a day in order to keep their jobs.

The other thing that was really thrust home to me is the problem with sizing.  I’ve long been aware that there is no such thing as a standard size 10/12/14/etc… but I was surprised just how many of the models said they could be one of three sizes depending where they shopped.

Isn’t it time the fashion industry made life easier for consumers and insisted all manufacturers conformed to the same size structures? Does it really matter if you are then classed as a size 10 instead of a size 8? Do you really feel thinner if you buy clothes with a smaller size tag? Come on, get real!

Let’s all stop being paranoid that we are carrying a couple of extra pounds and just be thankful that we are healthy. Let’s celebrate the fact that we are all unique.  Let’s all hold our heads high, walk tall and set the damn sexy model that lurks inside us all free regardless of our size or shape.  We are all beautiful!

ROYAL WEDDING – BAH HUMBUG!

The eyes of the world, along with probably about a zillion camera lenses, are focused on the Royal Wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton. Well, not mine!

I’m bored of hearing about it, I’m not interested in what the wedding dress is like, or what Kate is going to wear afterwards. Unfortunately, the poor lass will be under scrutiny from now on every time she steps out of her Anglesey home. She’ll become a fashion icon whether she likes it or not; when she gets it right, the critics will adore her but they’ll soon hiss and boo if they believe she’s made a fashion faux pas.

I feel sorry for her. I mean, she’s really just a normal human being who just happened to fall in love with a prince. Imagine if you couldn’t so much as pop down to the corner shop without making sure every bit of you looks immaculate (then again, she probably won’t venture out to the corner shop, but that’s not the point!).

What if you got a bad case of the munchies and you were simply desperate for a bar of chocolate, but you looked a right state? Personally, I’d just throw on something clean, (not necessarily ironed – it’s only my corner shop after all!), pin back my hair and make a dash for it, hoping I didn't bump into Mr Gorgeous en route). The last thing I’d be doing is spending a couple of hours making sure I was coiffed, suited and booted and thoroughly presentable. Nothing comes between me and my chocolate fix – when my hormones kick in and I need chocolate, I have to have it NOW!

Imagine what it must be like being told what you can and can’t wear. What if Kate got a sudden urge to go wild and wear a goth/punk/rock ensemble but royal etiquette dictates she is now destined only to wear simple, conservative dresses and suits with sensible heels? Imagine what sort of life that would be, to not have the freedom to express yourself by the way you choose to dress.

The worrying thing for me is that so many people will want to emulate her style, just as they did with Princess Diana. A bleak future of Kate clones may be on the horizon but I’ll stick to my own style, if it’s all the same to you.

If you want to create your own style and not be a copycat, check out http://www.fashionkillerz.com/, where you can find a whole range of unique clothing and fashion accessories all created by independent designers.

HELP! SUMMER IS COMING.

Oh nooooooooo! Summer will soon be here! Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE the long, and hopefully sunny days but it does unfortunately bring with it the horror of having to reveal more body parts than is strictly necessary in order to stay cool.

No more hiding the wobbly bits underneath big, cosy layers. Aaaaaargh! Well, the four times a week trip to the gym (pilates, yoga, zumba and badminton) since January don’t seem to have had the desired effect as yet - the flabby bits are still very much in evidence - so maybe now it’s time for more drastic action and I should go on a crash diet!

OK, so I ate almost an entire packet of flapjacks yesterday – at least they’re healthy – sort of! And my penchant for sea salt and balsamic vinegar crisps probably isn’t helping, blame it on my hormones! So I’ll start my healthy eating regime…next week… maybe.

The other worry, of course, is that I resemble something of a glow-worm. Typical English Rose, some might say, however, my incredibly white legs are particularly scary. Sunbed? Ooooh no, I hear you cry. Not good. Fake tan, then? Tried that before and ended up looking like a slice of streaky bacon and smelling like, well I’m not sure what like, but certainly not good. I could sit out in the spring sunshine slathered in Factor 50 (I burn easily, OK!) but I think I’d need to spend at least 6 months in the sun to get even a whiff of colour.

Maybe I’d better just resort to long-flowing ankle length skirts and long sleeved tops. Or maybe I should just become a hermit until autumn arrives.

Well, have you got any better ideas?

LEGGINGS!

I need to get something off my chest. Leggings! No, I don’t have leggings on my chest but I am getting more than a little worried about these garments.

Leggings are fab. They are comfortable and reasonably inexpensive but… and this is where my problem lies… you have to wear them properly!

World, pay attention; leggings worn on their own only look good on those blessed with super slim, super toned legs and buns. If, like yours truly, you are blessed with wobbly bits and cellulite, then forget it. This doesn’t mean you have to ditch your comfy wardrobe staple, it just means you need to wear them in a more appropriate manner. Wear them like tights under a short skirt (if short skirts suit your shape!) or shorts, or wear them under a long top. Please, please just not on their own!

And for goodness sake if you are going to ignore my advice, at least make sure they are of decent quality. Last week, I spent an hour in my pilates class, trying not to look at the girl in front of me who was wearing a pair of leggings that were made from such thin fabric, they were practically obscene. I’m just glad I was behind her rather than the poor teacher in front of her who must have had a real eyeful!

And then there was the girl I passed on the way to the supermarket the other day. Did the whole of Worcester really need to see that she was wearing black and white striped knickers with red hearts on under her leggings? I think not.

Wise up ladies, the world is watching!

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DEDICATED FOLLOWER OF FASHION

I was working away in my studio the other day and on my MP3 player came The Kinks playing Dedicated Follower of Fashion, it’s a great song which always puts a smile on my face.

“They seek him here, they seek him there,
His clothes are loud, but never square.
It will make or break him so he's got to buy the best,
'Cause he's a dedicated follower of fashion”

This was rapidly followed by David Bowie’s ‘Fashion’ which seems to me to be more about a new dance craze than about fashion per se…

“There's a brand new dance
but I don't know its name
That people from bad homes
do again and again
It's big and it's bland
full of tension and fear
They do it over there but we don't do it here”

…but hey, it got me thinking - not a good thing when I’m wielding a sharp pair of scissors, but still!

Since the 50’s, when the notion of ‘teenager’ was first born, fashion has followed major music movements – Rockabilly, punk, ska, heavy rock, New Romantics, goth… they’ve all generated their own style as fans emulated their favourite music idols.

But equally, music can be influenced by fashion – but as in the chicken and egg scenario, which comes first? Take punk as an example. Did punk music spark its associated fashions and attitudes, or was it the anger of a disillusioned youth who, fed up with high levels of unemployment, took to anarchy and rebellion, part of which involved (literally) sticking two fingers up at the conservative world of fashion (and the world at large) at the time? Did wearing punk clothes give them a whole new, anti-establishment persona, just like an actor really gets into character when he’s in costume? And did that lead to the birth of punk as these angry individuals attempted to spread their message through music?

I’m sorry, I don’t have the answer to that. My guess, is that each acted as a catalyst for the other. As with the chicken and the egg, to be honest, I don’t really care. I just find it interesting to see the intrinsic links they share.

Here are a few more songs about fashion you might like to listen to, some well-known, others less so…

Madonna – Vogue

Hanoi Rocks – Fashion

Green Day – Fashion Victim

Suede – She’s in Fashion

Lady Gaga – Fashion

There are loads more but I just don’t have the time…

ACCESSORISE, ACCESSORISE, ACCESSORISE

The current recession may mean that many of us have less to spend on fashion, but you really don’t have to spend a lot to stay looking glam and individual. Just a few well-chosen accessories can transform even the simplest of outfits, giving them a completely different look, whatever the occasion.

Choose a trendy handbag, funky jewellery, scarf, or headwear to complement your outfit, give it a totally personal look and reflect your own individual style and your mood at the time. Use accessories to give a classic outfit an up to date feel or to turn a daytime look into something stunning for the evening . There is always a wide choice of fashion accessories available to choose from, whatever your style and budget.

Contemporary knitwear designer, Jools Elphick, who sells a range of products on the Fashion Killerz website, agrees. “I've always felt that 'fashion' reflects a mood - this can be personal, national or global, depending on what we're tuning in to, she says. “For example, when the sun is shining and you're feeling good, then bright colours and exuberant accessories - be they large flowers in your hair, chunky jewellery or just a pair of sunnies - we put it 'out there'.  Take this further and a subtly flowing and feminine understated evening dress can be personalised with a feathered or sparkly head-dress, wrap and/or accessorised gauntlets.  It shouts individuality!

“So accessories for me mean adding definition, individuality and panache!”

Jools Elphick with a selection of her amazing Contemporary Head-Dresses.

Elephtheria Xenos, another designer selling a range of clothing and jewellery items on Fashion Killerz, comments:  “Jewellery is a key fashion must-have. It can be used to dress up and down any outfit and is like the finishing touch to an outfit.”

Accessories are also great for gift ideas. Why not treat your mum this Mother's Day to something really personal and distinctive such as this Mother's Day Necklace - a classic design that can be incorporated in many outfits - by Elephtheria Couture?

Or how about this beautiful beaded evening bag by Crafted by Nichola?

If you are looking for some unique fashion accessories, created by independent designers, you’ll find a wide range, including the items shown, on www.fashionkillerz.com. All the items are individually made and many are one of a kind so you know you’ll be adding something very special to your collection of fashion accessories.

Michele Turner

www.fashionkillerz.com