The Glamour of Italian Fashion V&A

The Glamour of Italian Fashion 1945-2014 will run at the V&A from the 5th April to the 27th July 2014.

The museum has spent three years sourcing pieces from its own archive, designers collections and private archives to put together this show. It’s the first exhibition of its kind and will chart the transformation of the Italian fashion industry. 

Labels such as Gucci, Versace, Emilio Pucci, Dolce & Gabbana and Missoni.

Between the areas focusing on couture, the sporty, ready-to-wear labels that caught the attention of America, and the more-is-more style that we love about Italian labels. 

The exhibition will also look at the influence that Hollywood stars had on the rise of Italy in the style stakes. So there are pieces picked up by Audrey Hepburn in Ferragamo and three incredible pieces of jewellery made for Elizabeth Taylor by the exhibition’s sponsor, Bulgari.

The final room will screen video interviews with designers, editors and couture technicians.

I will definitely be taking a trip to the V&A to see the Glamour of Italian Fashion exhibition.

Busy Bee

I have been really busy since being back at university! These past 5 weeks I have been photographing and filming the Spring Summer 2014 collection for WeSC. Such an amazing opportunity!!

But for now its top secret so you will have to all keep an eye out next year.

Just been given my new brief at university - Photo Manipulation.

Busy with sketchbook work and research, but these last few weeks at uni are more chilled so I won't be neglecting my blog!

Photograph - Early morning paddle boarding with Jessica Ong.

Longchamp Flagship Store London

Longchamp flagship store in London opened its doors during London Fashion Week. Taking up residence on Regent Street, the luxury leather goods in the new store, occupy two floors 300sqm of bags. (Heaven)

The two floors within the impressive space will be separated by a floating mezzanine level – dedicated solely to displaying Longchamp’s famed La Pliage collection – and a large sculpture spanning the height of the building will form the store’s centrepiece. The ground floor will house women’s bags, accessories, shoes and ready-to-wear, while the first floor will showcase men’s collections and luggage.

Founded in 1948, Longchamp has branched out from bags to shoes, ready-to-wear and menswear, and has worked with the likes of Kate Moss and Coco Rocha on its campaigns.

I definitely need to take a trip to the new flagship store and purchase a bag to add to my collection.

Manolo Blahnik Makes LFW Debut

Manolo Blahnik is coming to London Fashion Week. The footwear designer will make his debut on the London schedule this coming season. 

Manolo Blahnik will host a presentation on Sunday September 15 from 10am until 4pm, the same day that the new S/S 2014 collections from Mulberry, Mary Katrantzou, Jonathan Saunders and Topshop Unique will also be unveiled. 

"Everybody now makes a point of coming to London - which is very different to Milan and Paris," he told us previously. "London is now so important to all these international buyers. London is the future."

The Spanish-born designer was also awarded the British Fashion Award for Outstanding Achievement in 2012.

Busy Bee

I have been a real busy bee these past few month since being home from university. I travelled to portugal for a week with my family which was really nice and chilled,the weather was amazing. 

I have also been working most days, which has taken up a lot of my time this summer so far. This past week I've being doing Visual Merchandising in the room sets ready for the Autumn Winter launch.

I interned up in London last Saturday which was AMAZING - keep your eyes out for a post about my day as an intern.

On my days off I've sneaked in a few shopping trips to London, Bristol and Cheltenham - recent purchases posts coming soon.

Chime For Change

I recently attended the concert Chime For Change at Twickenham Stadium. Beyonce Knowles headlined the star-packet event. Jennifer Lopez, Florence & The Machine, Ellie Goulding, Rita Ora and Jessie J also performed at the concert.

Surprised guest and a show-stopping appearance from Jay-Z who performed along side his wife.

The event was held to raise money and create awareness of Gucci's Chime For Change campaign, a global female empowerment initiative founded by Beyonce Knowles, Salma Hayek-Pinault and Gucci's creative director Frida Giannini - Calling for better education, health and justice for women.

Between the performances there were powerful film clips showing women's stories which were each introduced by a set of high profile presents and ambassadors of Chime For Change such as Blake Lively, Frieda Pinto, Madonna, James Franco, Ryan Reynolds and Jessica Chastain.

Sarah Jessica Parker Set To Launch Shoe Collection

Sarah Jessica Parker is launching her own shoe collection.

Sarah Jessica Parker has chosen to collaborate on the range with George Malkemus, CEO of Manolo Blahnik - the label that Carrie Bradshaw helped to put on the fashion map. 

The accessories line will also feature a few bags and trench coats.

SJP has been looking to heritage brands like Charles Jourdan and Maud Frizon for inspiration. Think simple and elegant.

The SJP collection will be available early next year through US retailers Nordstrom.

If These Shoes Could Talk

Superga's creative directors Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen have teamed up with The Sartorialist and Garance Doré, to create a photo & video style diary called 'If These Shoes Could Talk'.

The Sartorialist - Scott Schuman photographed the campaign, which features five 'influencers' from L.A, Miami & New York. While Garance Doré created a film highlighting each individual's personal history with the brand. The style diary, which launched on Monday will be released over the next three weeks. Introducing a new city each week!

L.A is the first city to be introduced in a video featuring Fashion Editor Jessica De Ruiter and College Baseball Player Sam Andros.

Fashion Blogger Martha Graeff will appear in the next video in Miami and then in the final video in New York, Market Director of Paper Magazine Luigi Tadini and Devon Ashley Head an Art History Student at New York University.

Check out the first video at Superga-usa.com

Chanel Nail Bar

Les Vernis Couleurs Culte de Chanel, is opening at Selfridges Oxford Street from May 31th until June 12th. 
For two weeks you can book a Chanel shape and paint with a Chanel nail expert or on June 5th & 6th with backstage nail extraordinaire Sophy Robson. There will also be a self-paint nail bar where you can explore the latest shades. Les Vernis Couleurs Culte de Chanel will be something of a visual treat too, with oversized nail polish bottles hanging from the ceiling.

Call 020 7318 2372 to make an appointment.

Beach In The East

The latest venture for Yasmin Sewell is another pop-up store. The fashion consultant and style setter, together with Paper Mache Tiger, will open Beach in the East in Shoreditch. A 1970s California-inspired space complete with an empty swimming pool.

Beach in the East will sell a tightly curated edit of all the latest hot designers handpicked by Yasmin Sewell, all with a skater cool surf vibe. Acne, Cècile, Thomas Tait, Sophia Webster and more have designed pieces exclusively for the project.

It sounds like a pretty cool place to hang out - London-based graffiti artist 'Word to the Mother' will be spray painting the space. While DJ 'Itchy Rich' takes over the soundtrack. If you can’t make it down to London, the limited edition pieces will be available to buy online at FarFetch from May 29, Beach In The East’s official partner.

Beach in the East will be open from 18 May – 24 August at Lower Ground G,123 Clifton St, EC2A 4LD

Rita Ora Fronts Bicester Village Pop Up

In collaboration with the British Fashion Council, Bicester Village champion young British talent, allowing them to sell their collections from a dedicated pop-up boutique for eight weeks.

On the 2^nd of May, Rita Ora will follow in the footsteps of Thandie Newton and Alexa Chung to host the launch of the ‘Future Vintage’ themed temporary boutique.

The pop-up will offer a selection of dresses, shoes and handbags from the best of the British design talent. Hand-picked by fashion consultant, Yasmin Sewell, established names such as Peter Pilotto, JW Anderson, Mary Katrantzou, Jonathan Saunders, Linda Farrow and Preen hang alongside emerging talent like Lucas Nascimento and Athena Procopiou – all at up to 60% off.

Photograph - Elle UK

Philosophy

I was given the Mimosa Shampoo, Shower gel & Bubble bath as a gift recently. It's a delight, the smell is just amazing! 

The multitasking formula gently cleanses and conditions skin and hair.

On the side of each bottle there is a Philosophy Recipe.

This is the recipe on the Mimosa bottle. 

The Philosophy - 

1/3 c. chilled fresh orange juice, 1/4 tsp. orange flavoured liqueur, 1/3 c. chilled champagne, 1 small orange wedge. combine orange juice and liqueur in a fluted champagne glass. slowly add champagne. garnish glass with orange wedge if desired. serve immediately. 

Tom Ford - Nikita

I absolutely love the Nikita sunglasses by Tom Ford.

The exaggerated cat eye shape has that 50s retro glamour.

Tom Ford is known for his lavish collection of eyewear and unique designs. 

The Nikita sunglasses come in Tortoise Shell and Shiny Black.

These sunglasses will add a serious glamour and sophisticated edge to any outfit.

These are definitely on my wish list for the summer.

Longchamp - Le Pliage Travel Bag

I purchased my first Longchamp - Le Pliage Large Handbag when I was in Monte Carlo. I love the idea that the bag folds down and can be stored easily. This is inspired by the Japanese art of Origami. The Le Pliage bags have become a must-have accessory all over the world. 
The photographs above are of the Le Pliage Travel bag, this was a starting university gift from my sister to use as a weekend bag to take home at the weekends. 
The Le Pliage Handbags are available in different shapes and sizes but also a large range of colours.

L.K. Bennett Collaborates With Caroline Issa

Parrot Embroidered Cotton Pointed Toe Court

£250.00

L.K. Bennett the luxury brand has collaborated with London style icon Caroline Issa to launch a vibrant Thai-inspired collection.

The collection consists of six pairs of shoes and two handbags.

Inspired by her trips to Thailand, the shoes & bags are bright and beautiful, featuring hot pinks, yellows, oranges, reds and greens, together with zig-zag embroidery and oriental flowers. 

For something a little unique – they even have detachable pom-poms.

Tuk Tuk Embroidered Leather Clutch Bag

£295.00

Check out the rest of the collection - http://www.lkbennett.com/shoes/caroline-issa

Zara Vamp High Heel

ZARA

HIGH HEEL VAMP SHOE WITH ANKLE STRAP

£29.99

I recently purchased these amazing shoes in Orange which you can see in a previous blog post. As I have tiny feet I struggle to find heels that fit, so after buying the orange pair and falling completely in love with them I was really naughty and ordered them online in Black. 

I cannot wait to wear them, keep a look out for an outfit post soon!

Anya Hindmarch Thatcher Tribute

Anya Hindmarch filled the windows of her Pont Street store in Chelsea with a legion of Thatcher-esque mannequins decked in cobalt pussy bow blouses, structured tweed jackets, pearls, Thatcher inspired wigs and the designer’s boxy leather Bespoke Ebury handbags in a variety of colours.
Anya Hindmarch and her team worked with Tamar Zaig - Costume Designer and Stylist.
One of my favourite quotes by Margaret Thatcher - 'If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman'.

Hunters

A few weeks ago I finally got to wear my new Hunter Wellies that were a gift from my parents for my birthday back in November!

I think Hunter Wellies look really trendy but also look classy in black patent. 

As you can see in the photograph they are a bit sandy this was because I had a photography workshop on the beach!

Photography - Jessica Birks

Longing For The Summer

I was just looking through some photos on my iphone and came across this photo I took last summer on holiday!
I cannot wait to get away and see some sunshine and get a tan.
The weather has been awful recently but slowly trying to brighten up.
I just want to wear my summer wardrobe now, especially my new Zara Orange heels that I blogged about in previous posts.  

Chanel - 19 Gabrielle

My amazing sister sent me this Chanel lipstick as a gift for doing well in my first unit at university. 
I absolutely love this colour - 19 Gabrielle is a bright red.
I always like to add a bold lipstick to make a statement to an outfit.
The gift packaging is really cool from Selfridges & Co.   

bareMinerals Make-Up

I recently purchased the bareMinerals Foundation Starter Kit.
My Mum & Sister have been using it for a few month now and rave about it. They have both said how light it feels on their face (feeling like your not actually wearing any make-up), my sister suffers with bad skin & she has really noticed an improvement.

I usually use the Benefit Play Stick but thought I would have a change and try out the bareMinerals Foundation.

The set includes a bareMinerals Foundation in your choice of shade and finish, Original Mineral Veil, Warmth All-Over Face Colour, Full Flawless Face Brush, Flawless Application Face Brush, Maximum Coverage Concealer Brush, Prime Time Foundation Primer and finally a How-To DVD shows you how to Swirl, Tap, Buff® your way back to the skin you were born with. 

Go to your nearest store now and get colour matched! I'm Fairly Light.

Zara Shoes

ZARA

HIGH HEEL VAMP SHOE WITH ANKLE STRAP

£29.99

I purchased these amazing shoes yesterday in Windsor from one of my favourite shops Zara. As I have tiny feet I struggle to find heels that fit! When I put these on I knew they were perfect.

These shoes are to wear with a black dress to a wedding in the summer. I'm trying to add a bit of colour to the outfit so I've also teamed the dress with an orange Pashmina, the only accessory left to get is a bag. Any ideas my fellow fashion bloggers? 

Feel free to comment below with any suggestions.

These High Heel Vamp Shoes With Ankle Straps also come in Black - might just have to purchase these too!

Fashion Fling

For fashion loving shoppers who want hot off the runway spring trends, Swindon Designer Outlet's Fashion Fling is the must-visit style event of the season. Discover your favourite designer brands and enjoy exclusive offers and flash sales on Spring's must-have accessories. Launch event on the 6th April for exclusive discounts and prize draws plus your chance to pick up a complimentary tote bag and copy of Grazia.

On 6th April at Swindon Designer Outlet the launch of Fashion Fling will be giving away a prize every hour between 12pm - 4pm.

Visit the Fashion Fling hub in the west mall to enter a prize draw on the day and you could be in with a chance of winning one of the below must have spring accessories:

12pm – Watch Station - Win a designer watch

1pm - Chapelle Jewellery - Win an Ice-Watch

2pm – Osprey London - Win The Kate Tote Bag

3pm – Jeff Banks - Win a Shirt and Tie

4pm – Le Creuset - Win Coastal Blue Deep heart Dish

Click the link below to see offers that will be available:

http://www.mcarthurglen.com/uk/swindon-designer-outlet/en/fashion-fling/fashion-fling-offers/?po=-1&fo=QWxs0&so=QWxs0&std=

New Website

Check out some of my new work on my website gabriellabaker.4ormat.com

Image Above - Suits Project

Photography & Styling - Gabriella Baker

Model - Sophie Hingston

Olivia Palermo

One of the main reasons I wanted to find out where the Anya Hindmarch show was at LFW, was because I had a feeling the beautiful Olivia Palermo would be attending. Recently she had been seen carrying the Bathurst Soft Satchel.

Olivia Palermo is one of my style icons, she always does dressed up casual very well.

A twist on a classic pair of jeans - two toned front and back, paired with a peplum floral blouse. A statement black coat with a fur bottom, very of the moment embellished point toe stiletto shoe and of course a pair of oversized sunnies.

Photography - Gabriella Baker 

Anya Hindmarch LFW AW13

I managed to find out where the Anya Hindmarch show was a LFW.
These are a few of the photographs I took outside the show.
Fashion Blogger Deborah Brett in the mustard dress teamed with a fur waistcoat. Yasmin Sewell - Fashion, Lifestyle and Retail Consultant working the bowler hat.
Anders Sølvsten Thomsen - Fashion Editor wearing the quirky shirt.

Coming soon my Olivia Palermo Photos! 

Photography - Gabriella Baker

Tom Ford LFW AW13

These are a few of the photographs I took outside the Tom Ford show at London Fashion Week AW13.
Miroslava Duma, Jourdan Dunn, Daria Strokous, Nadja Bender, Lily Donaldson, Stef Van Der Laan & Karlie Kloss were some of the faces I saw. I was a very happy girl to catch a glimpse of Justin Timberlake & Jessica Biel through their car window! 

Photography - Gabriella Baker

Street Style - Carnaby Street LFW

These are my two favourite street style photographs I took during London Fashion Week. I like how their outfits are very miss matched, having the just thrown this together look. Both practical with comfy footwear and layering each opting for dresses rather than trousers making the most of the use of funky tights. Teaming with very individual accessories left laptop/lunchbox style handbag and extra long scarf with beanie. Right Bindi sticker, oversized sunglasses, bomber jacket, ripped tights and animal fur neckpiece. (Note Legs, Head and tail - Kinda creepy!)

Photography - Gabriella Baker 

Essie Nail Polish

I am a sucker for red nail polish but I can never get it to look nice. I recently came across the nail polish make Essie. They have refreshing colours. I purchased Russian Roulette (Left), Turquoise & Caicos (Middle) and Watermelon (Right). 
I would definitely recommend this make of nail polish, the brush makes the polish go on easy without any mess and lasts longer than other makes I have used in the past!
A must buy if your a sucker for red nail polish like me and can never get it neat! 

CÉLINE

I am in love with the Celine Luggage Phantom handbags.

My favourite is the classic black leather medium sized one.

The side straps can be tied or buckled to make the bag less open,giving the bag a more structured look.

The Celine Phantom bag can be seen on the arms of many celebrities such as the Kardashians, Victoria Secrets models & Hollywood actresses. 

I think the neon colours will be perfect for the summer.