TARTAN TREND

It's big, not new, well-stitched and goes well with Shortbread ... Tartan!

Last year, I couldn't believe my eyes when tartan started to become a trend for A/W, 'YES' I selflessly screamed in my head as I thought of my chosen Art & Design topic - Subculture: Punk - in my head. I decided to keep that theme running for this year and apparently so have a lot of designers.

Vivienne Westwood, who practically invented Punk, has dared to show a bit of Tartan this season in her collection:


1. Faded Tartan Whisper Jacket - Anglomania A/W 2014 (viviennewestwood.com)

"Vivienne Westwood’s Faded Tartan Whisper Jacket adorns a contemporary shape this Autumn/Winter 2014-15 and reflects the impacts of global warming. This wool-woven jackets subtle peplum cut creates a feminine silhouette which is enhanced by draping lapels and a single button fastening at the waist, while the asymmetric high collar provides a sophisticated finish."



2. A/W 2014 Red Label (style.com)



3. Gold Label A/W 2014 (viviennewestwood.com)


4. Tartan Colbalt Blue Satchel (forzieri.com)

"Winter Tartan Cobalt Blue Satchel is stunningly crafted in blue winter tartan and eco leather details in a folded design which conceals an outer pocket with golden orb detail to finish off the iconic look. Featuring double rolled handles, top zip closure, internal zip pocket and gold tone signature detail. Please note that due to the cut of the fabric the tartan design will vary from bag to bag. Signature dust bag included. Made in Italy."


I hope this has inspired you to buy some tartan this year, even if it's just a statement accessory.

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Jane Bowler Workshop @ V&A

On Saturday I went to a V&A 'Create!' workshop for Fashion Design with designer Jane Bowler, based on the Glamour of Italian Fashion Exhibition which just opened on April 5th.

At the start of the workshop Jane inspired us by showing us her recent work including designs for London Fashion Week, magazines e.g. GQ and performers such as Rita Ora and Lianne la Havas. After we had seen her designs we had a look around the exhibition to choose ideas which we could base collections on. I was really inspired by the use of layers of material and also by Emilio Pucci's beachwear.

Using this inspiration, I completed a mood board and then fashion sketches as shown below:

I decided to use pastel colours with embellishments, similar to Dolce and Gabbana but I also liked the idea of dramatic accessories - I was inspired by designs from Vivienne Westwood and headwear I had seen at the Isabella Blow exhibition during LFWend.

I had a fantastic time and I plan to attend more workshops like this as the experience I gained was invaluable. To find out more on Jane Bowler please visit: http://janebowler.co.uk/

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Roberto Cavalli SS13

I thought I'd start by posting about one of my recent most favourite designers, Roberto Cavalli, using some images from his Spring/Summer 2013 Collection:


To start with I absolutely adore this blouse. Cut-out designs always intrigue me and this type of pattern cut-out in white gives both a mystical and interesting impression at the same time.



This pattern really caught my eye. This is one of the main reasons why I love Cavalli. The patterns are always so detailed yet give a beautiful overall image -I like to compare it to a flower just opening, perfect for Spring!



I chose this design because it has a wonderful bo-ho feel to it. It appears slightly dark for Spring/Summer however this isn't unusual for Cavalli. I just love the free, wild look of it and the leopard print really sets it off.



I had to add in this piece because of how daring it looked. There are quite large cut-outs on both sides with intricate sequin detail at the front and to the sides. I think it would be wonderful to wear on hot summer nights as the material is light and appears to 'float'.

All images used are from http://www.style.com/fashionshows/

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