London Fashion Week: David Koma SS13 courtesy of Vodafone VIP

Today I was fortunate enough to attend the David Koma SS13 show at the prestigious Somerset House in London. I was lucky to win a pair of tickets through Vodafone VIP - as I am not (yet) blogging royalty this was one of the few ways I was ever going to see a show at London Fashion Week!

Somerset House is the heart of LFW, and I could feel fashion pulsing through its veins as I walked through the Strand Entrance. Bright colours, vertiginous heels, and eclectic fashion lovers busily buzzed around the gorgeous courtyard, all desperate to breath in every particle of the fashionable air! Gushing as this paragraph my seem, this is truly how Somerset House feels during LFW, and it is clear to see why London is often thought of as the fashion capital of the world.

Skirt: Topshop

Top: Zara

Belt: Viyella

Cape: F&F (bargain!)

Bag: Dooney and Bourke

Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Shoes: Boutique in Islington, London

I did feel as though I should have been braver in my fashion choices for the day, and if there is a next time I will definitely try a more exciting outfit! Although, I do love my shoes!

My prize included exclusive access to the Vodafone VIP lounge, where we were treated to nibbles, champagne, watching David Koma's show from a VIP viewing platform, and the opportunity to chat to Colomba Giacomini (one of the hottest stylists around).

Pre-show my companion and I nabbed the chance to talk with Colomba. I was with my boyfriend's Mum, and Colomba complimented her on the gorgeous coat she was wearing - describing it as 'very Stella'! Big style points! She asked Colomba what she would suggest for women who were slightly older, and was delighted to find that she was spot on by going for a simple palette, such as black, and then adding one statement piece to set off the look. For a girl of my age she suggested that I could be more bold, perhaps trying out the clashing print trend that can often be difficult to pull off. But most encouragingly she revealed that next season is less about trends and more about colour, prints, and textured material, such as brocade. She was also refreshingly human when she said that it doesn't matter if you wear something that doesn't quite work, after all it is only one day of your life, and there is always tomorrow!

Now for the show! 

David Koma is a Central St. Martins graduate - one of their finest. He burst onto the fashion scene after graduating in 2009, and being awarded the Harrod's Design Award for his graduate collection. His collections have always celebrated and explored the female form, and he has become known for his contouring and sculpting. It can possibly be said that his previous collections are very 'fashion' and not so 'commercial', however, although SS13 saw his signature structured pieces, this time it was possible to see his catwalk creations walk straight into the shops.

The feeling before the show was expectant; this is a designer who always places so much time and effort into his concepts, and this consideration is greatly appreciated amongst the fashion elite. His front row was graced by Pixie Lott and her boyfriend Oliver Cheshire. The atmosphere was primed for an evocative show.

It was clear from the first outfit that David Koma's show was inspired by female tennis stars: unsurprising considering that Maria Sharapova has recently been snapped in one of his creations, and that her chewing gum brand, Sugarpova, was one of the sponsors. It was also apparent that his collection was given a 60s twist, with the gamine models, bright colours, and extremely high hemlines. Overall, it is a fabulous concept, and extremely relevant considering the recent success of British tennis and sport over the last few months.

Koma's creations screamed power, prowess and strength. The short and structured recreations of the classic tennis dress looked fierce coming down the runway. They were given a fashion twist through the use of layered organza over stiff under-material, and also through the use of strong colours. Special sporting references included the tennis-net-like material used on some of the dress, and the tennis racket handle shoes (made in collaboration with Alain Quilici). It was a wonderfully chic homage to sporting women and strong women alike, and Koma could not have released a more appropriate collection considering that the nation is still pining after the end of the Olympics and Paralympics.

The collection looked particularly spectacular during the finale of the show, when the audience could see Koma's creations altogether, and could see the story that they told.

So, here are some of my favourite looks from the show, (taken from Vogue's website as my camera simply isn't good enough!):

David Koma's show was an absolute triumph. I have a feeling that his tennis-influenced dresses will be copied by many a highstreet store - as was his peplum design from the AW12 show back in February. The show, combined with Colomba's advice, inspired me to inject some more colour into my wardrobe, and I can't wait to hit the shops to try out my new found enthusiasm for trying something new!

Thank you Vodafone VIP, and thank you David Koma. It truly was a wonderful experience!

Love Lucy x

London Fashion Week: Topshop Unique SS13

The Topshop Unique SS13 showcase was one of the most highly anticipated shows of London Fashion Week. The revolutionary introduction of an interactive online video stream increased the pre-show hype for those of us who were not lucky enough to attend in reality. When the front row fashionistas were arriving, viewers around the globe could see celebrities such as Olivia Palermo and Elle Fanning making themselves at home in the hottest seats in London. The white, oval-shaped catwalk was an elegant taster to what Topshop Unique had in store, and suggested that we were about to see a serene and pure collection.

I was sure that the show would include monochrome, yellow, and simple patterns, and I certainly was not disappointed. The photographs I have used in this post are taken from the Topshop Twitter page and are from behind the scenes at the show. I have chosen a couple of my favourite looks - a difficult task seeing as the collection was incredibly wearable - and will include a few sentences as to why I have chosen each look.

This was my favourite look of the entire show. The ultra-cool monochrome pattern of the mini-dress is extremely current, and not at all fussy. I can see it being worn in the day time, evening, or out at night, suggesting a very versatile piece. The beautiful yellow jacket sets off the dress perfectly, and would make any girl stand out in a crowd. The material of both the dress and the jacket looks light and luxurious - a perfect material for either slinking down a catwalk or the high street. I really cannot wait to get my hands on this opulent outfit! 

I truly loved the tone of the yellow used in the Topshop Unique show, so naturally I loved this trouser and long jacket combination. It looked fantastic coming down the all-white catwalk, and really stood out amongst the looks. The patterned top underneath was suitably interesting in its own right, but not overpowering. Another must have outfit for SS13!

The jumpsuit still deserves to be a fashion staple. They are wonderfully wearable, and offer a stylish alternative to dresses. This one is particularly gorgeous, and I am in love with the pattern! I am a monochrome lover, and this tartan is an absolute delight! I really think that this highly wearable piece will feature in my SS13 wardrobe. 

Coco Chanel knew the power of black and white, and so does Topshop Unique. It may seem like a contradiction, but I think that this outfit is simple yet dramatic. The skirt is a modest length, but the cropped top gives the outfit a more youthful injection. The long white jacket creates an elegant silhouette, and the elegance continues down to the feet with the delicate silver heels. 

It seems that no prestigious catwalk show at LFW is complete without the gorgeous Cara Delevingne, and here she is wearing an equally gorgeous look. I am in love with the collarless jacket: the colour and texture make it look very high-end, and I will certainly be adding it to my SS13 wishlist! The top, high-waisted skirt, jacket, and clutch combination create an ultra-cool look that I am sure will be imitated by many fashion loving girls around the globe. 

I adore the midnight tone of this striped jacket. This alluring look is most definitely another of my favourites, as I love black and blue together. It looked extremely sexy and dramatic coming down the luminously white catwalk, and I am also extremely jealous of this model's toned torso! 

The Topshop Unique SS13 collection was an absolute triumph, and has most definitely been one of my highlights of LFW so far. 

Tomorrow I will be making my way to Somerset House to watch the David Koma show live, and I am literally buzzing with excitement! Watch this space!

Love Lucy x

GQ Carnaby Style Night: The Best of British

Thursday night saw the infamous Carnaby Street in London's trendy Soho area play host to GQ Magazine's Style Night. The event promised 20% discounts in all shops, free entertainment, complimentary cocktails from Monkey Shoulder, free barbers for men, and many a giveaway!

The Soho area has long been known as an eclectic and energetic place, and was the perfect setting for GQ's event. In this post I'll be writing about my top three shopping experiences: the theatrical make up shop Illamasqua, Liam Gallagher's contemporary Mod themed shop Pretty Green, and the well established Ben Sherman. I've chosen these brands as they are unique and exude that special British quirkiness.

Illamasqua cosmetics pride themselves in being different. Developed out of the desire to express individuality in an 'alternative' way, it is a brand which celebrates subcultures and theatricality. Sourcing its products from Kryolan - a theatrical makeup company - Illamasqua cosmetics are heavy duty and are not for the faint hearted. This is a brand which does not shy away from the spotlight, and their GQ event highlighted this wonderfully audacious attitude. Two voluptuous models sat in their window displays, playfully performing to the crowd, and drawing much attention to the shop from the street. Inside, their colourful products were proudly displayed, and their high energy music reflected the image of the brand. The collection which was the most enticing was their Generation Q collection, designed for all ages, races, and types of people. Illamasqua revel in being a unique brand, and the GQ event made it clear that in turn they want to celebrate uniqueness. This has always been their highest value, and is shown by their continued support for the beautiful Sophie Lancaster Foundation. 

Another super-trendy shop which deserves to be noticed is Liam Gallagher's Pretty Green. Again this is a wonderfully British brand, which was launched two years ago, and draws on inspirations from the swinging 60s. The DJ played some classic songs, most significantly from The Rolling Stones album Exile on Main Street, which was the inspiration for their most recent collection. Although this album was not released during the 60s, it is still reminiscent of the Mod era, and suits the Pretty Green brand perfectly. The stand out pattern of this collection is paisley, a fantastically British pattern. Another exciting recent collection was developed in collaboration with the cult film Quadrophenia; a collaboration which has produced some innovative yet nostalgic contemporary modern pieces. This is definitely a British brand to watch, and if you ever visit the Carnaby store be sure to pop upstairs to visit John, Paul, Ringo and George!

Ben Sherman completes my GQ Carnaby Style Night top three. It is the most established brand out of my three choices, however in recent years it has given itself an impressive make over, and has really learnt how to play up its British roots. On Thursday night they provided men with free wet shaves from Sharp's Barbers, treated shoppers to the beautiful sounds of a live band called Dry The River, had an in-store DJ, and gave its shoppers the opportunity to win an exquisite parka coat. Their premium collection is certainly very British, and very stylish - reflecting exactly what the brand is about. The stand out pieces from this collection were the bowling bag and the on-trend creepers. It should also be noted that the Ben Sherman staff are extremely helpful, informative, and enthusiastic about the brand.

The event was a success, and was a perfect taster for London Fashion Week which began yesterday. LFW has got off to a very good start, so stay tuned next week for my exclusive coverage of David Koma's show, and the gossip from the Cutler and Gross LFW wrap party. 

Love Lucy x

P.S. I have renamed my blog as it matches my URL and sets me apart from a similar blog name. I hope you approve of the change!

Vogue's London Fashion Night Out: Anya Hindmarch

As promised today I will tell you all about my glittering Anya Hindmarch Fashion Night Out experience. Any fashionistas who attended the Anya Hindmarch event at their luxury New Bond Street shop will agree that it really was a dazzling fashion extravaganza! Anya seems to know exactly what us ladies want out of our handbags: beauty, practicality, and lots and lot of fun!

Anya's handbags are displayed impeccably in the New Bond Street shop, with emphasis on her A/W12 "All I've Ever Wanted" collection. This collection is quite simply breathtaking; the concept is wonderfully nostalgic, transporting Anya lovers back to their childhood by making them feel as though they are a child peering through a toy shop window at Christmas time seeing shimmering colours and twinkling lights. With such a unique and exciting concept I believe that this collection is one of Anya's best. The stand out pieces for me are the colourful Ebenezer bags which look like exquisitely wrapped gifts, the adorable Tiny Tim Mini Dancer, and the ingenious Marano Dancer.

www.anyahindmarch.com

The Anya Hindmarch creative team came up with the perfect idea to compliment Anya's gorgeous bags: a dark booth and slow shutter speed camera, combined with their amazing new Marano LED clutch! This innovative idea created some gorgeous fashion photographs and a wonderful atmosphere in the shop. Everyone who participated even had the chance to win their very own Marano Dancer! My friends and I thoroughly enjoyed watching each other's attempts to create THE picture on the photographers digital camera screen. 

My (crazy-eyed) attempt did actually make it to the Facebook shortlist, however unfortunately I didn't quite win! On the plus side each "model" was given a print out of their favourite shot to keep as a very special memento of the evening, which was a fun touch to the evening. 

Anya Hindmarch is a truly unique brand. It is most definitely one of my most respected and desired brands as it really aims (and succeeds) to bring fashion to life, and to make fashion fun. Often fashion can take itself too seriously, but Anya's products are truly refreshing and you can tell that she not only inspires her designs, but is also inspired by them. It is incredibly touching and extraordinary when a handbag can produce so many wonderful memories as the Marano Dancer did for my friends I at FNO. 

I really cannot wait to see what Anya has in store for her much anticipated S/S13 collection at London Fashion Week!

Love Lucy x

Vogue's London Fashion Night Out: French Sole

Last night saw a dazzling explosion of fashion occur in over 500 cities around the globe. FNO is the brainchild of the highly revered Anna Wintour and is now in its fourth year. This years events promised to be bigger and better than ever and in London the evening was absolutely fabulous - if only it could have gone on for longer!

The main part of my evening was spent in French Sole and Anya Hindmarch. My experiences in each of these shops were simply too wonderful to cram into one blog post, so today I am dedicating this post to the exquisite French Sole, and tomorrow I will focus on the glittering Anya Hindmarch.

French Sole is powered by the talented Jane Winkworth who has always been obsessed with all things "ballet". She established her now notorious brand in 1989, and is often thought to be the creator of the ballet pump. As a lover of comfort and fashion I am naturally drawn to her comfortable, yet stylish and fashion-forward shoes, and French Sole's FNO did not fail to delight!

Neatly nestled at 26 Brook Street the French Sole flagsip is intimate and inviting. On arrival we were greeted by smiling staff and gorgeous Marquis Vodka cocktails. As we sipped on our delicious elderflower, mint, sparkling water, and Marquis Vodka cocktails we browsed the the beautiful A/W12 collection (whilst nibbling the occasional cheeky cupcake or tasty macaroon).

The shoes themselves are desirable and chic. With the likes of Kate Middleton and Olivia Palermo often being snapped wearing French Sole ballets which fashion forward girl wouldn't want a pair? I'm certainly looking to expand my collection! My particular favourites last night were the mirrored Henriettas - they are just divine!

Other highlights in the A/W12 collection include the glitter toe-capped Henriettas and the brand new Driving Shoe. The Driving Shoes are a delightful classic with a contemporary twist, and are fast becoming a firm favourite with the French Sole customers. On the website they come in seven glorious colours, including electric blue, vibrant red, and chic navy. 

www.frenchsole.com

Customers who visited French Sole last night will agree that the event was a complete success. The ambiance was relaxed but with an exciting buzz, created by the ingenious collaboration between French Sole and Marquis Vodka. There were many socialites spotted at the event including Davina Harbord, Poppy Cotterell, and Prince Amar Singh. Lots of customers took the opportunity to try on their favourite styles, such as my good friend Jess, who was more than happy to pose in a beautiful pair of pink snakeskin French Sole ballet pumps. 

Thank you French Sole for a beautiful evening filled with gorgeous shoes and refreshing Marquis Vodka cocktails! I'm looking forward to seeing what you have in store for S/S13! 

Love Lucy x

P.S. Be sure to follow French Sole and Marquis Vodka on Facebook and Twitter!

www.facebook.com/frenchsolefan

www.facebook.com/marquisvodkaus

www.twitter.com/frenchsole

www.twitter.com/MarquisVodka

September Wish List: Top Ten

September is undoubtedly The Fashion Month. Over the next few weeks we will be indulging in all sorts of fashion treats such as Vogue's Fashion Night Out and international fashion weeks. So, with important fashion dates inscribed into our calendars, what will you be wearing? Here's my Top Ten for September (if only I could afford it!).

1. 
   

ALEXANDER WANG 

wool-blend & rubberized-tweed mini dress

£475

http://www.net-a-porter.com

2.

VANESSA BRUNO ATHE

textured pattern-knit coat

£460

http://www.net-a-porter.com

3.

MASON BY MICHELLE MASON

washed silk-georgette and chiffon dress

£470

http://www.net-a-porter.com

4.

FRENCH SOLE

lilac mirrored ballet pumps

£115

http://www.frenchsole.com

5.

ANYA HINDMARCH

valorie in multi-coloured glitter fabric

£350

http://www.anyahindmarch.com

6.

MULBERRY

ipad case in pink glossy goat

£295

http://www.mulberry.com

7.

BARBOUR

cookstown jacket from the heritage collection in black

£299.95

http://www.barbour.com

8.

TOPSHOP

black collar tip shirt

£36

http://www.topshop.com

9.

TOPSHOP

co-ord fluro boucle skirt

£45

http://www.topshop.com

10.

TOPSHOP

parton metal trim boots

£120

http://www.topshop.com

What's on your September Wish List?

Love Lucy x

Liebster Award

So, a couple of days ago I was extremely surprised and honoured to receive a Liebster Award from a beautiful fellow blogger called Aurea (http://emptyrack.blogspot.co.uk/). This gives me the opportunity to let you know a bit more about myself, answer Aurea's questions, nominate 11 other new bloggers for the award, and ask them 11 questions myself.

11 things about me

1. I have a lot of love for my family, friends and boyfriend. I am very blessed to have such wonderful people in my life!
2. I love sports, particularly yoga, running, skiing & netball (for those of you in the US, netball is like a version of basketball, but you can't bounce or run with the ball!)
3. I love cocktails, especially caipirinhas and martinis! 
4. I have an obsession with Vogue magazine. I've collected the British Vogue since 2004, and whenever I go abroad I always bring back a Vogue from the country I've been to. 
5. I have lived in the French Alps for 5 months, and Cancun for 3. 
6. I really want to become fluent in French, but I always seem to forget what I've learnt! 
7. I work as a Sales Executive for the biggest events company in London, so if you're ever in London and need a good night out you know who to call! 
8. But my ideal career is as an editor for Vogue!
9. I am a Christian and am blessed with an amazing church. Love wins!
10. I love love LOVE French Sole shoes!
11. I am thoroughly enjoying my blogging experience so far, and am so appreciative for all of my lovely followers! Thank you so much!

11 answers

1. Mulberry Alexa Satchel or Proenza Schouler Satchels? - Most definitely Mulberry Alexa Satchel (in Oak). I am a massive supporter of British fashion, particularly when it is actually made in Britain. I absolutely adore everything and anything Mulberry! Their new Del Ray bags are gorgeous too! If anyone wants to buy me a Mulberry then it would be rude to say no ;)
2. Who is your favourite designer?- It has to be Christopher Bailey at Burberry. I just love the modern twist he is able to bring to every British classic, and the Burberry brand is synonymous with British fashion all over the world. 
3. What shade of nail polish are you wearing right now? - Clear. I like to keep my nails fresh. My nail beauty routine is Burt's Bees cuticle cream, Diamond Strength Nail Hardener, and a clear top coat. I only really wear colourful nail varnish for special occasions. 
4. What was the last movie you’ve watched? - Notting Hill. It is such a classic. Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts are simply perfect in this movie. 
5. What is your favourite shop? - Topshop. Although Topshop has become extremely common in Britain, I still do most of my shopping there. (Zara comes in a close second!) It is just so handy for snapping up new trends and good quality garments at reasonable prices.
6. Häagen-Dazs or Ben & Jerry? - Ben & Jerry! Especially cookie dough and phish food!
7. What is your favourite perfume? - Chanel Mademoiselle. It is simply divine! And as the wonderful lady herself once said: "A woman who doesn't wear perfume has no future". 
8. Do you own some pieces of clothing that you wear regardless of the actual season? - My waxy black Zara jeans with zips up the ankles. They're so useful and I love them!
9. What is your favourite TV show? - The Big Bang Theory! I love clever humour & all of the characters - my favourite has to be Shelden. 
10. Who is your favourite model? - I have lots of favourite models: - Kate Moss, Cara Delevingne, Natalia Vodianova, Miranda Kerr, and Karlie Kloss - to name a few! I have so much respect for them all as I have no idea how they look so perfect all of the time. 
11. Why did you choose such a name for your blog? - Because it's about all things I love! Lucy Loves...

11 questions for tagged people

1. What is your favourite trend at the moment?
2. New trends or classic pieces?
3. Designer or high street?
4. If you could go to any catwalk show at any Fashion Week which would it be and why?
5. Who is your biggest fashion inspiration and why? 
6. Flats, boots, or heels?
7. Blackberry or Iphone? 
8. What is your top photography tip?
9. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
10. Winter or summer fashion?
11. What is your most coveted piece of clothing / accessory? 

11 nominated blogs

1. Anthony & Elle @ http://anthonyelle.com/
2. Charlotte @ http://www.charlottescouture.com/
3. Destiny @ http://chicdisobedience.blogspot.co.uk/
4. Circle of Chaos @ http://circleofchaos.blogspot.co.uk/
5. Tomris @ http://dejafashion.blogspot.co.uk/
6. Donna @ http://donnasapiens.blogspot.co.uk/
7. Allison @ http://drivewaystorunways.blogspot.co.uk/
8. Filipa @ http://ohmyfilipa.blogspot.co.uk/
9. Daniela @ http://fashiondoesnotlie.blogspot.co.uk/
10. Jhoan @ http://jhoostyle.blogspot.co.uk/
11. Regina @ http://reginalily.blogspot.co.uk/