Irish Success at LFW

From a fresh faced model to stylists turned designers, the Irish certainly left their mark on London Fashion Week.

Lennon Courtney

Lennon Courtney

London fashion week saw contemporary designs by newcomer Lennon Courtney create a stir on the British fashion scene. Lennon Courtney received high praise for its cutting edge structured pieces designed to compliment the everyday woman.

Lennon Courtney

Lennon Courtney

A successful showcase with independent retailer Wolf & Badger resulted in attention from Vogue.co.uk in an article entitled ‘Irish Charm: What Women Want?  Classic silhouettes with an urban edge defines the work of the new designers.

Clara for Bora Aksu

Along with the success of Irish designers at London Fashion Week, a young model has also left a lasting impression on the British fashion event. Clara McSweeney represented by the Andrea Roche Modelling Agency walked for three designers, Teatum Jones, Dominic Jones and Turkish designer Bora Aksu.

Clara McSweeney

When asked about the model’s recent success Andrea Roche replied:

‘We are extremely proud of her as she has only just turned 16 and is doing so well. This is her second season for LFW and her agency there Elite see huge potential in Clara.’

Clara McSweeney

Model Clara McSweeney

Clara is in her fourth year of secondary school, balancing this and modelling with international labels in the UK. With striking features, long blonde locks and comparisons being made to Rosie Huntington Whiteley this Irish model has a bright future ahead. 

Clara for Bora Aksu

BAFTAs 2014

Last night London saw the cast’s of this years finest films walk the red carpet of the 2014 BAFTAs. Award ceremonies so far have been loaded with stunning gowns and new style icons however last night’s looks appeared a little dull overall.

Lupita Nyong’o

Colour was lacking and black seemed to be everywhere. This being said there is always one person who makes up for the rest and this was lady of the moment Lupita Nyong’o. Famous for her outstanding supporting role in 12 Years A Slave, this newcomer has dominated almost every award ceremony when it comes to style.

Brad and Angelina

She opts for striking colours which contrast her dark complexion and so instantly catches your eye. A turquoise gown by Christian Dior was her choice for the Baftas fitted to the waist then flowing into a structured train. The metallic belt along with matching cuffs helped create an hourglass shape and break up the block colour.

Amy Adams

Cate Blanchett, Suki Waterhouse, Amy Adams and Helen Mirren all donned black ensembles. Angelina Jolie for some reason chose to add some androgyny to the event by wearing a very similar outfit to her husbands.

Samantha Barks

Samantha Barks brightened things up also as she wore a beautiful cream gown from the Calvin Klein collection. Swept back hair and a chunky necklace completed this stunning look. Naomie Harris sported a low cut hot pink dress to inject some colour into the event.

Naomie Harris

NYFW- BCBG Max Azria

Dramatic prints, dark tones and rich fabrics sum up the luxurious catwalks of New York Fashion Week. Many a designer pulled out all the stops to showcase their Autumn/Winter 2014 collections but in my opinion one stood out from the crowd.

BCBG Max Azria AW14

Kicking off NYFW BCBG Max Azria, a fashion favourite with celebrities, displayed structured pieces with pastel coloured detailing. Oversized outerwear featured heavily in the collection creating layers and length. Accessories included knee high leather boots and large black clutch bags. An array of fur littered the outfits from furry snoods and collars to sumptuous muffs and scarves.

BCBG Max Azria AW14

The use of lines throughout the clothing’s design added symmetrical elements to the already structured looks. However the designer opted for lengthy flowing skirts to balance the designs and add femininity. This aesthetic collection lit up the runway with beautiful, elegant and classy pieces certainly stealing the show.

BCBG Max Azria AW14

The fantasy woman inspiring the designs of BCBG Max Azria appeared to ooze class, wealth and confidence. Monochrome is a her best friend but with a futuristic twist. Digital prints and luxurious textures complete the wardrobe of this everyday fashionista.

The Ankle Strap

Spring’s ultimate must have heel includes the dainty ankle strap. Not only does this extra piece of material help to hold your foot in place when walking, dancing or even running in your heels but it creates a feminine and sultry look.

Street Style

Now you can pick up a pair of these classy shoes in any high street shop. Topshop, Forever 21 and Penneys are just three chains that are favouring the sandals this season, stocking many different versions in statement colours.

Olivia Palermo

It must be said that a fresh pedicure or clean nail polish is a necessity donning these heels. Anyone that is conscious of their feet in any way you might feel a tad naked in these.

Forever 21 €35.90

Topshop (Kurt Geiger) €350.00

Topshop (Kurt Geiger) €125.00

For an easy €15.00 Penneys offer a leather effect nude pair with a hot pink heel. They are the perfect way to add some colour to your dark winter wardrobe. Forever 21 began with the classic black suede style and have now branched out to pairs with metallic details. These retail at €35.90.

Rihanna

Block heeled version of the ankle strap heels are available at Topshop, if the kitten heel style is not for you. However these are by designer Kurt Geiger and range from €125.00 to €350.00. If I had the funds, I would.

Amanda Seyfried

Bold Brows

The days of plucking until there’s nothing left have been thankfully left in the past. Taking notes from the likes of Cara Delevingne women are now embracing big brows or at least ditching the ‘few hairs in a straight line’ look.

Cara: Bold Brows

Even if your eyebrows are reasonable in colour, they will never look as good as they can with a little extra colour and a fuller shape. You don’t have to have eyebrows as full and dark as Cara’s to achieve a big brow, it all depends on what you have to work with.

Camilla Belle

Mary-Kate Olsen

Recently I’ve used a HD brows palette (€30.00) until it fell and broke into little messy pieces. The palette was handy it had a light blonde colour along with three shades of brown so allowed for mixing-this creates a more natural look. The powder worked but often the application was difficult. To avoid the cost of another palette I opted for a very affordable eye brow pencil from Catrice (€2.99). A cheap solution that works, it is not to heavy or too light and comes with a brush on one end to fix stray hairs.

HD Brow Palette

Catrice Brow Pencil

Catrice Brow Pencil

Tips:

Don’t over-pluck. Remove hairs to create a natural arch which should peak at the outer edge of your iris.

To avoid the unintentional angry eyebrow look ensure you brush your pigment onto the hairs of the brow and not the skin.

Start applying from just before the arch of the brow and continue to the end. Use a brush to blend the pigment already applied into the corner of your eyes to maintain a natural brow.

Her Look: Vanessa Hudgens

From her innocent Highschool Musical days to a recent rebellious role in the explicit Spring Breakers, this actress has evolved in more ways than one.

All White

She started out donning pretty preppy outfits in her early acting days but soon developed her own boho signature style. Vanessa is famed for her wavy locks, laid back effortless chic and festival wear. If there is any celebrity who knows how to dress for a summer festival it’s her.

Festival Wear

Festival Chic

Festival Chic

Festival Wear

Similar to a real life Pocahontas, the dark featured beauty has this advantage when it comes to styling herself. There are many elements to Hudgen’s everyday look ranging from white flowing pieces to ripped denim, tie-dye skirts to print crops.

Summer White

She is a walking advertisement for the maxi dress, using the lengthy garment to give her the appearance of height. A brightly coloured and bold printed maxi teamed with flat sandals is a classic everyday look for the actress.

Maxi Skirt

Maxi Dress

Accessorizing is key to this star’s wardrobe. Chained headbands, classy fedora’s and an array of necklaces and bracelets all at once complete this boho chic look she is much loved for.

Her Look: Olivia Palermo

She was the chic villain on The City, a spin off show of hit reality show The Hills, showcasing the fashion world in New York City. A socialite turned style icon for many Olivia has climbed the ranks in terms of style since her TV debut.

Flirty Skirts

Olivia embraces her long legs and opts for skinny jeans, fitted leather pants or structured shorts which show off her assets. Her outfits often incorporate layers including short sleek jackets and a blouse or long coats and plenty of accessories. Sophisticated is her personal style in one word. She appears to never have a hair out of place, reflecting her wealthy background she is the oozes class.

Colour Block

Denim Days

Monochrome

Of course her olive skin and sandy hair tend to aid any outfit’s appeal but regardless of your colouring you can still use her as an inspiration when dressing. Patterned fitted pants are another item Olivia has in her wardrobe which add colour and drama to a plain black blazer and blouse.

Summer Chic

Although her style is mostly structured and of the fitted sort she does occasionally sport a chiffon mini skirt to add a flirty and feminine element to a look. A good bag is an essential for this socialite and it is rarely a small one. A girl after my own heart she can always be seen carrying her life around in a large but classy leather handbag.

 

Sheer Perfection

Will you dare to bare? This new Spring/Summer 14 trend is spiraling women into the summer spirit with sheer garments popping up across the high street. 

Sheer Detailing

Sheer Pastels

 

It featured heavily on the catwalks of SS14, with Burberry Prorsum in particular, making quite the impression. The summer months give us all a chance to finally bare some skin following months of endless winter cover ups. Whether abroad or at home (chances are slim in Ireland) this trend can work for you as it is flirty, stylish and more wearable than you think. 

Topshop €46.00

ASOS €5.62

Although it seems all is revealed through this sheer fabric, if the correct sheer print is picked you can still be relatively covered up. Sheer skirts are for the brave and an investment in suitable underwear to compliment the skirt is strongly advised. Pastel print sheer maxi skirts were rampant at Burberry Prorsum’s Spring/ Summer 14 show perfect for warm summer nights.

If you’re looking for a more subtle way in which to wear this trend then sheer stripes are for you. High street stores such as Topshop are beginning to add sheer elements to their ranges. Light jumpers with sheer stripe detailing are chic and flattering. ASOS are stocking sheer preppy ankle socks, a great summer accessory.

Burberry Runway Shots

If you have to cover up try a sheer shawl or cardigan as a trendy alternative. So dare to bare in pastel shades this spring and leave wooly winter days behind.

Grammy Awards ’14

Shimmering gold and sheer panel detailing embellished the red carpet at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards Ceremony in Beverly Hills. Celebrities such as Taylor Swift made quite an impact sparkling in gold while Beyoncé showcased the SS14 sheer trend.

Red Carpet Worthy

Combining two Spring trends: sheer and floral

Showstopper in Gold

Rich silk; Daring cut

Complimenting complexion

Sheer Detailing

Opening the show performing with husband Jay Z, Beyoncé stole the show in more ways than one. Her figure flattering floral dress was designed by Michael Costello putting her high up on the list for best dressed. Embroidered lace and sheer detailing created a feminine but flirty look. Wavy locks and a strong red lip take this outfit to award ceremony standards.

A low ponytail with a sweeping side fringe added simplicity to Taylor Swift’s gold Gucci gown. With sheer shoulders and neckline this frock sparkled from top to bottom while hugging the singer’s slim frame. Expensive with an air of class is how to describe Taylor on music’s biggest night.

Rihanna as expected chose a quirky version of the typical awards ceremony gown. The collared plunging silk dress looked rich in colour and texture. The mustard yellow complimented her complexion while her long tresses were brushed off her face.

Both Iggy Azalea and Anna Kendrick donned beautiful embroidered gowns. Iggy slicked her blonde locks back and let her white floor length dress take center stage. Anna chose glossy curls to add to her revealing yet stunning Azzurro dress.

Christine Teigen, married to John Legend, looked stunning in yet another sequined gold number. Strapless, fitted and featuring a shimmering train the model’s fashion choice was perfect for the occasion.

Golden Globes ’14

 Block colours, sheer detailing, textured pieces-the red carpet of the 71^st Annual Golden Globes Awards saw Hollywood’s finest echo major Spring/Summer 14 trends. The stylish and hilarious duo, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, hosted the awards for a second time at the Beverly Hilton Hotel last night. The wide range of designs chosen by guests created an air of elegance with a slight edge.

Amy Adams was just one actress sporting the block colour trend with a low-cut halter dress in two tones of red by Valentino. The deserving winner of Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical for American Hustle wore her strawberry blonde locks up in a classy bun. A long dainty silver chain mirrored her dresses v-shaped neckline.

Margot Robbie

The Wolf of Wall Street actress Margot Robbie added edge and a sultry element to the red carpet in a white Gucci dress. A thigh-high slit along with jeweled detailing made blonde beauty stand out from the rest.

Jennifer Lawrence received mixed reviews regarding her Dior haute couture frock. The prom dress style design was either loved or hated, either way the actress was pleased following her win for her comedic supporting role in American Hustle.

Jennifer Lawrence

Vibrant colour blocking and sheer detailing in the dress worn by Maria Menounos combined two SS14 trends. Slicked back hair and simple accessories complimented the bright pink number by Max Azria Atelier.

Maria Menounos

Prabal Gurung had more than one design grace the coveted red carpet with Sandra Bullock’s dramatic yet creative colour block dress being one. The actress looked youthful and confident with a side ponytail and worthy nomination.

Lena Dunham

Sandra Bullock

Allison Williams

The cast of Girls certainly made a fashionable impression with nominee Lena Dunham wearing Zac Posen in daring yellow. Allison Williams followed suit in Alexander McQueen spring/summer which featured the texture trend.