Thursday 15 January 2009

Trend Update 2009

Came across these highstreet trend and style notes on MSN. Thought I'd make a note of whats going on on the high street this year along side what I'm seeing on the catwalks...

"...
At Miss Selfridge the look and feel is distinctly '80s retro with bleached denim drainpipes, figure hugging dresses and attitude jackets to rock.

For eveningwear however, the look is decidedly more glamorous with lashings of pearls and gold chains galore. Wear yours with attitude over a skimpy black number.


Victoria Beckham launched 2008's wet-Lycra legging trend with aplomb. For the less brave among us however, sleek satin trousers and figure-hugging knee-lengths look to be hot for 2009.
Across the high street a distinct cowgirl feel appears to be emerging, with check and gingham shirts launching alongside bandanas, scarves and crumpled leather jackets.

Last year Littlewoods employed the services of Trinny and Susannah to help them spread their appeal to a younger, savvier market. This year's spring/summer collection looks to be loud and proud as a result.

Sixties chic will always be sassy in our book. And New Look are rocking the trend with this limited edition shift dress (£35), socks (£3) and strappy sandals (£40).

Combining different styles is set to be a key theme for 2009. Who would have thought a Napoleon-style jacket worn with a cute summer dress would work Yet somehow, it does.
Cream military jacket (£40), Blue and white striped scarf (£10), white broderie dress (£30) all from Therapy at House of Fraser.

River Island frequently collects 'Best High Street Store' awards and this year's collection combines feminine dresses with masculine tailoring. Yes, the boyfriend jacket is here to stay for 2009 - as are sky high heels with attitude. All items featured here will be coming to River Island stores this spring.

Nautical navy themes will pepper the high street this year. This frill military jacket (£35) is smart and fresh, by Dorothy Perkins.
Credit crunch times will call for a little flair when it comes to vintage shopping. This cute vintage cowichan is £45 from a selection at Beyond Retro.

When one wants to evoke an air of sophistication, one need look no further than Hobbs. We love the 1920s glamour look.

Make like Sienna Miller and always accessorise with a cute hat. Complete the 80s feel with this ensemble from Littlewoods.

For the young at heart, jumpsuits continue to hit the shops in 2009. This grey workman-like number, accessorised with a pink Belt, is available from Asos.

Remember the cropped Tees we used to admire in Fame? They're back! Get yours from River Island.

Looking to accessorise that cowgirl gingham shirt? Look no further than Principles for a great tassel bag.

Accessories should be worn loud and proud in 2009 - and ruby red is set to be big, big, big. Belt (£28) bag (£70) and shoes (£85) all from Dune.


Men's brogues crept into women's wardrobes in 2008 and the trend is set to continue for 2009. Dune have created their own version with a twist for £99.

Source: http://style.uk.msn.com/fashion/gallery.aspx?cp-documentid=12753650&imageindex=14

Monday 12 January 2009

Hussein Chalayan at Design Museum

22 January – 17 May

Leading the forefront of contemporary fashion design, the twice named 'British Designer of the Year,' Hussein Chalayan, is renowned for his innovative use of materials, meticulous pattern cutting and progressive attitudes to new technology.

This exhibition will be the first comprehensive presentation of Hussein Chalayan’s work in the UK. Spanning fifteen years of experimental projects, the exhibition explores Hussein Chalayan's creative approach, his inspirations and the many themes which influence his work such as cultural identity, displacement and migration.

Exhibits will include ‘Afterwords’ which explores the notion of ‘wearable, portable architecture’ in which furniture literally transforms itself into garments; ‘Airborne’ bringing the latest LED technology to fashion design with a spectacular dress consisting of Swarovski crystals and over 15,000 flickering LED lights; ‘Before Minus Now’ a dress made of materials used in aircraft construction which changes shape by remote control and ‘Readings’ a dress comprising of over 200 moving lasers presenting an extraordinary spectacle of light.

Open until 10pm Friday 23 January and Friday 24 April. Find out more about the museum's late night openings Design Overtime.

In association with