Wednesday 30 June 2010

Cosmopolitan Beauty Awards names this years winners

The Cosmopolitan Beauty Awards took place yesterday at The Roof Gardens in Kensington. In total the industry expert panel and celebrity judges judged 82 products. This included 16 products which were granted the ‘Readers’ Kiss Of Approval’ award by Cosmopolitan’s readers who voted for their favourite products via the magazine and online at www.cosmpolitan.co.uk. The winning products included two awards that recognise long-term cutting-edge excellence: Cosmo Beauty Classic Award and Cosmo Beauty Breakthrough Award. The winners represent the best in class for every element of beauty, from hair-styling and cleansing, to skincare, toolkit and suncare. This year’s judges were:

Dr Nick Lowe, Consultant Dermatologist
Michael Douglas, Hairstylist
Marcia Kilgore, Founder of Soap & Glory and Fitflop
Tracy van Heusden, House of Fraser beauty buyer
Lisa Eldridge, Make-up artist
Amelle Berrabah, Sugababe
Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Singer
Louise Court, editor, Cosmopolitan
Ingeborg van Lotringen, Beauty Director, Cosmopolitan
Kate Turner, Beauty Editor, Cosmopolitan
Philippa Chapman, beauty assistant, Cosmopolitan

For the full list of winners, please see below:

Harvey Nichols teams up with Lula magazine for pop-up shop

To celebrate five years of Lula magazine, Harvey Nichols and Lula are collaborating to curate a pop-up shop launching online and in-store. Editor in Chief, Leith Clark has confirmed fashion names including Rodarte, Erdem, Lover, Miu Miu, Charles Anastase, Rachel Antonoff, Sonia Rykiel, who have all created exclusive designs and pieces for this. Books and music by Liz Goldwyn, Melissa Auf Der Maur, Derek Blasberg, Daisy de Villeneuve and Karen Elson will also be available. Chanel has also got involved and created a treat with every purchase. All clothing has been created especially for this project. Lula's pop-up shop opens at Harvey Nichols tomorrow and www.shop.harveynichols.com for more information.

New men´s fashion label launches this July

Terrace Production is a new English casual clothing label for men launching at the end of July. The range comprises: the Terrace two button plain polo which is made in England using Egyptian Cotton and comes in three colours, pink, cream and grey; the Terrace leather blouson, with two button fastened pockets, is made from Italian leather and is available in two colours, nero and chocolate brown. Soon to be added to range is the first Terrace Two Pocket Ventile Blouson, (Ventile is a treated waterproof breathable cotton which is produced in the UK) which is available in four colours: olive, stone, navy and red, and the Ventile Mac which comes in olive, navy and antique bronze. The entire range will be available through the website at www.terraceproduction.com

Tory Burch collaboration with Kara Ross

American designers and childhood friends, Tory Burch and Kara Ross have announced their collaboration on a limited edition capsule jewellery collection, Kara Ross for Tory Burch, for Autumn/Winter 2010. The collection is inspired by one of Ross' and Burch’s favourite motifs - the evil eye and will include 14kt gold plated metal and resin cuff bracelets, rings, chokers, pendant and bib necklaces featuring coloured enamels and semi-precious gemstones. The limited edition collection will be available in July at Tory Burch Boutiques internationally as well as online at www.kararossny.com, www.toryburch.com and Net-a-porter.

Bobble exclusively launching at Harvey Nichols

Harvey Nichols is exclusively launching Bobble water bottles in the UK this July. Bobble’s ingenious design removes chlorine and contaminants from tap water. Bobble replicates the experience of drinking crisp, clean portable water without incurring the significant costs – both environmental and monetary – associated with plastic bottles. Designed by renowned industrial designer Karim Rashid, the iconic-shaped bobble comes in six distinct colours: green, red, blue, magenta, black and yellow. As water passes over the carbon filter, the negative ions of contaminants are drawn to the carbon granules – leaving the water cleaner tasting than ever.

Moschino announces Spring/Summer 2011 teens, kids and baby collections

Moschino has recently announced its Spring/Summer 2011 teen, kids and baby collections for boys and girls. The Boys teen range comprises three themes: Shop!, Shark Rider and Dirty Work, with styles including long-sleeve polo shirts with gabardine details, short-sleeve shirts with Moschino printed logos and close-fitting nylon jackets with contrasting-colour inserts on collar and cuffs. The girls teen range also has three themes: Fashion System, Love Boat and Shocking, with styles including maxi vest tops with appliqué waistcoats, dresses under dinner jackets, elegant dresses layered over short-sleeve T-shirts, satin jackets with a ‘built-in’ waistcoat, and T-shirts with printed waistcoat. For more information on the kids and baby collections, or the teen ranges, please contact Moschino.

Tuesday 29 June 2010

Jade Jagger designs exclusive bag for Carnaby Street

2010 is the 50th Anniversary of Carnaby Street, the iconic London hot-spot for fashion and music fusion. In celebration Jade Jagger has designed an exclusive bag with all net proceeds going to support the Environmental Justice Foundation. The colourful print was inspired by Carnaby’s ‘Summer of Love’ as Jade’s own fashion label Jezebel has always been inspired by the never ending summer in Ibiza. The design features Jade’s classic kiss icon lit up by a rainbow. The large tote shopper is made of 100% cotton and features wide shoulder straps and a double internal pocket to keep your treasures safe. The bag costs £16.00 and is available to buy at www.ejfoundation.org/shop

L´Oréal Professionnel Colour Trophy Awards 2010 winners announced

The L’Oréal Professionnel Colour Trophy Awards 2010 took place last night at the Grosvenor House Ballroom, London. This is the longest running and most prestigious annual hairdressing competition in the UK dedicated to hair inspired by fashion. The top prize was taken by the Abacus hair studio in Bewdley (pictured above receiving the award from host George Lamb). Here is a full list of winners:

Jean-Paul Gaultier designs lingerie collection for La Perla

Jean-Paul Gaultier and La Perla have collaborated on an exclusive collection of lingerie. Models available include: a waist cincher corset to the slip that follows the curves of the body; extra-high briefs that hug the hips to the bustier and highlight the neckline; a backstitch satin bra with a shoulder-strap motif and glove-holding strings and a suspender belt with protégé; there is also bras and a body with the famous pointed cups recalling the costumes created by Gaultier for Madonna’s 1990 Blond Ambition tour. Black and powder pink colours take precedence and there is also coral and bleu canard. The special limited edition garments will be presented on 7 July in Paris during the Jean Paul Gaultier Autumn/Winter 2010-2011 Haute Couture show.

Clothes Show Style Awards 2010 announces winners

Paloma Faith, Johnny Blue Eyes and Caroline Barnes were victorious at the Clothes Show Style Awards 2010 in association with OK! Magazine last friday. This year’s awards honoured the fashion industry’s designers and the country’s most stylish stars at London’s Earls Court with a red carpet entrance; champagne reception; performances from Paloma Faith and new boyband The Wanted; an awards ceremony with presenters George Lamb, Harold Tillman, Chairman of the British Fashion Council (pictured above presenting Johnny Blue Eyes with his award), and a dance and catwalk performance in the show's Fashion Theatre. A full list of winners can be found below:

Jon Richard launches new collaborative collection with CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski

Jon Richard, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, has unveiled a new collection of jewellery combining the signature design with CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski elements. The new collection, which has an exclusive preview today (see DIARYdates), will launch throughout the UK in September. Designs within the new range include oversized crystal heart pendants, pave detail pendants and bangles in the Swarovski cyclamen colour. Statement rings are key, from stacker rings to the cube ring that completes a necklace and earring set. As part of the anniversary celebrations, Jon Richard has recreated the first ever collection launched back in 1985. This range includes oversized clip-on earrings plus asymmetric brooches and bangles. The Jon Richard & Swarovski collection will be available in-store at Debenhams in September starting from £12.00, while the eighties inspired range is available now.

Monday 28 June 2010

The UK Beauty Awards winners

The UK Beauty Awards 2010 took place on Friday at Clothes Show London at Earl’s Court, In partnership with DIARY, handbag.com and The Soil Association and supported by Natural Health magazine and MyMarketMonitor. The awards highlight different industry categories, providing an insight into the world of fashion and beauty and are supported by the industry’s top experts, designers, journalists and more. The winners are:

Jean Paul Gaultier for Roche Bobois home collection is launching

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Roche Bobois has unveiled a collection of furniture designs created in collaboration with Jean Paul Gaultier. Reflecting Gaultier’s trademark originality, playfulness and wit, the new designs (including ‘dressings’ of some of Roche Bobois’ most well-known pieces) is a celebration of high glamour and carries the themes of travel, romance and adventure. Jean Paul Gaultier’s designs for Roche Bobois include:

Friday 25 June 2010

H&M launching online store and home collection

This Autumn H&M customers in the UK will be able to shop on the online store www.hm.com. Launching Thursday 16 September, customers will be able to choose from a wide range of clothing and accessories, including Women’s wear, Men’s wear and Children’s wear. Also new to the UK and launching online is H&M Home, a home textiles concept which includes bedlinen, ready made curtains, cushions and towels. Subscribers to the H&M newsletter will also be able to shop exclusively before the official launch date, from Thursday 9 September.

Thursday 24 June 2010

Popular US denim label set to hit the UK

Successful US denim brand Robin’s Jean is set to launch next month in the UK. The brand has made its mark worldwide with flattering cuts, washes, intricate details, unique stitching and embroidery on a product line containing designs for men, women and children. The brand is all about fit, offering a wide spectrum of styles from skinny to straight, dark to light. Pictured here are the Ocean Drive and Gotham styles. Current celebrity fans of the label include Alicia Keys and Kim Kardashian. Confirmed stockists include Trilogy and Piajeh, with national stockists being announced later thsi year. Prices (RRP) range from £199.00 for legging poplins to £899.00 for leathers. For further information on the label visit the website at www.robinsjean.com.

The Cosmetic Executive Women (UK) Achiever Awards to honour high-flying females

Each year The Cosmetic Executive Women (UK) Achiever Awards recognises the women who are driving the beauty business. CEW (UK) in turn, provides the knowledge and networking members need to achieve successful careers. This year’s Lifetime Achiever Award goes to Andrea Jung, head of Avon, and the longest serving female CEO on the Fortune 500. Andrea Jung will be in London to accept her Award from CEW (UK) on 11 October. Other achievers on the list for 2010 include Angela Rowley, General Manager of Estée Lauder and Tom Ford Beauty in the UK and Ireland; Kate Shapland, renowned beauty editor of the Telegraph Media Group; Michelle Feeney, CEO of St. Tropez; and Sian Sutherland, Founding Partner - Chief of Mama Mio. The CEW (UK) Achiever Awards will take place at The Jumeirah Carlton Tower Hotel, Cadogan Place, London SW1 on Monday 11 October 2010.

handbag.com hunts for next accessory design star

An aspiring accessory designer is being offered the chance to work with British fashion designer, Julia Clancey, in Los Angeles, thanks to handbag.com and Talenthouse. Having relocated to LA, Julia Clancey, with the help of handbag.com, is hunting for an accessory design intern to join her team for six months. The winner will get to work with Julia on her New York Fashion Week collection for Autumn/Winter 2011 and have their work featured on handbag.com. Clancey has a dedicated celebrity following that includes Victoria Beckham, Dita Von Teese and Mischa Barton. Entrants should submit two images of accessory pieces they have designed by 14 July to be in with a chance of winning. Voting will take place from 15 – 21 July and the winner will be announced on 29 July 2010. The six month unpaid internship in Los Angeles will commence August 2010 to February 2011.

Wednesday 23 June 2010

Kardashians for Beach Bunny Swimwear

The Kardashian sisters, Kim, Kourtney and Khloé have teamed up with L.A label Beach Bunny Swimwear to design swimsuits to flatter their individual body types. The first release of the label, ‘Kardashians for Beach Bunny’ has now launched on Beach Bunny Swimwear’s website www.beachbunnyswimwear.com and is coming to the UK shortly. Each sister has created two styles for the Summer collection which includes an array of modern and body-conscious cuts reflecting Beach Bunny Swimwear’s brand aesthetic fused with the style of all three Kardashian sisters. A larger collection that features five styles per sister is also set to launch at the beginning of November 2010. The collection is will make its runway debut in Miami this July during the IMG Swim Show, for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week-Swim Wear and are currently seeking sponsorship.

British Fashion Council announce NEWGEN MEN recipients for Spring/Summer 2011

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has today announced that ten of London’s most exciting emerging menswear fashion design talents will receive sponsorship from its designer support initiative NEWGEN MEN sponsored by Topman. All recipients will receive business support, funding and the opportunity to use the official BFC venue to host either a catwalk show or, for the first time, a presentation or an installation during London Fashion Week’s (LFW) Menswear Day, on Wednesday 22 September 2010.

The recipients of NEWGEN MEN, sponsored by Topman are:

First mobile perfume recommendation tool launches

iPerfumer, the first mobile perfume recommendation tool, is available for free download from Apple App Store. Fragrance experts at Givaudan, have designed an iPhone application to help consumers navigate the perfume market. Once a personal profile is created in iPerfumer, it can be used to shortlist best-suited perfumes, or to check known ones. Multiple profiles can be created – allowing consumers to create for friends and family, to aide gift-giving, as well as for themselves. Further functionality in iPerfumer allows users to find out which perfumes on the market are most liked by other perfume buyers.

Tuesday 22 June 2010

Fashion designer Disaya Sorakraikitikul launches debut jewellery collection

The debut jewellery collection from designer Disaya Sorakraikitikul is set to launch later this year. Disaya Sorakraikitikul studied fashion and textiles at Central St. Martins and trained with John Galliano in Paris. The collection in inspired by human anatomy and the animal fang. Semi-precious stones and sterling silver are used to emulate the spine and ribcage in intricate designs as shown here. Disaya Sorakraikitikul is mid-priced, with pieces starting at £125.00 for rings. The most expensive piece is the black rhodium plated sterling silver spine necklace with marcasite at £1650.00. Materials used include rhodium and gold plated sterling silver, and semi-precious stones such as marcasite and black onyx. The collection is available for wholesale purchase now, with plans to launch instores in September.

Vodafone UK appointed official sponsor of London Fashion Week

Vodafone UK has been appointed as the title sponsor of London Fashion Weekend and official sponsor of London Fashion Week in September and to celebrate they are launching Vodafone VIP, a major new reward scheme for all its customers. Open to both Vodafone consumer and enterprise customers, it will give consumers access via tickets and unique ‘money can’t buy’ experiences. As title sponsor of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend, thousands of Vodafone customers will have the opportunity to get 48 hour advanced access to tickets and the chance to win free tickets by going to vodafone.co.uk/vip.

Shop Pulse launches revamped website

Fashion website Shop Pulse is re-launching today with a new look and several new features. The makeover includes the addition of the following new features: ‘shoppable street style’, live feeds for products which are ‘back in stock’ and ‘last chance to buy’, an online personal stylist service and an inspiration guide designed to alert users of the most prominent items and trends each season. The website is now suffixed with '.com' rather than '.co.uk'. Future plans for Shop Pulse include the launch of an iPad magazine in September 2010 and mobile applications towards the end of the year. Shop Pulse is currently working on a menswear section that will be available with the iPad magazine launch. There are also ongoing additions to Shop Pulse’s portfolio of stores providing users with more choice spanning the designer and high-street sectors. Visit the website at www.shoppulse.com

Monday 21 June 2010

Scottish Fashion Awards 2010 winners announced

The Scottish Fashion Awards 2010 in association with Vogue.com took place last night at Glasgow’s Science Centre. Global fashion industry figures and judges such as Dolly Jones editor of Vogue.com, Hilary Alexander fashion director of The Daily Telegraph, Tessa Hartmann, Founder and Producer of The Scottish Fashion Awards and co-founder of The Scottish Fashion Council (pictured here with Jonathan Sauders and Dolly Jones) and Brian Duffy President of Ralph Lauren Europe, were all in attendance to see the homegrown talent honoured for their achievements. For a full list of winners, see below.

Den-Mat introduces Snap-on Smile

Den-Mat, experts of pain-free and affordable dentistry, has introduced the Snap-On Smile, to the UK. The Snap-On Smile is a patented, removable smile solution that requires zero prepping, absolutely no injections or adhesives and simply snaps on to your natural teeth after two 20 minute visits. The Snap-On Smile is made of very thin, but strong specialised resin that resists staining and can be used on either upper or lower teeth to transforming teeth. For a list of Snap-On Smile dentists call 08442-473527 or visit www.snaponsmile.co.uk

Friday 18 June 2010

Prêt à Porter to launch new catwalk event next month

Womenswear trade show Prêt à Porter is launching Paris Fashion Days next month, a catwalk event for luxury brands to show pre-collections and diffusion lines. Ten catwalk shows will take place on 4 - 5 July in Paris at Palais Brongniart. Spring/Summer 2011 collections will be on show to fashion professionals, while visiting public will be able to view Autumn/Winter 2010 collections. Brands appearing at the event include womenswear labels Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, Anne Valerie Hash/AVH, Pablo de Gerard Darel, Chemins Blancs, Ventcouvert and Camomilla, with further brands to be announced.

Thursday 17 June 2010

Camper launches Barcelona Design Centre collection

Camper is reaching out to upcoming talent through the Barcelona Design Center, a platform for new creative collaborations. This Autumn/Winter 2010 Camper Barcelona Design Center is presenting two collections, TRIC BDC and MAR BDC. Tradition and modernity come together in TRIC BDC, an urban men’s shoe inspired by the city. TRIC BDC offers unique detailing and features the P87 cushioning system which consists of a bi-color outsole and an insole with 87 balls of comfort that absorb shock. This is the first winter collection to include MAR BDC, a contemporary shoe for women seeking comfortable but feminine footwear. The result is a collection of ankle boots and pumps in a winter colour palette, with details like smocking and a retro-inspired pied-de-poule lining. The BDC collection will be in stores by October and prices start from £110.00 for both men and women’s styles.

Vans `Girls Off the Rail Tour´begins next Friday

To celebrate the launch of the new girls Autumn 2010 collection hitting stores, Vans is touring the country and stopping at Vans retailers to spread the word. The Vans ‘Girls Off the Rail Tour’ have a London stylist on hand in each city to spread knowledge to anyone looking for some styling tips. As well as being the first to check out the new collection, visitors will receive make-up demos, fake tattoo artists, cupcakes and drinks, Vans goodie bags and more. For the London leg of the tour the stylist will be searching the streets around central London to find the most stylish girls who look like they have a flair for fashion. The lucky few will be selected to style an outfit in store with a chance to win an exclusive Vans Shopping Spree. For more info check out www.vans.co.uk and check out the tour dates below:

New Highgrove store opens in Bath

Following the success of the Tetbury Shop and Highgrove online, Highgrove has now opened a new shop in Bath. Inspired by the organic gardens at Highgrove and the interests of HRH The Prince of Wales, the Highgrove Shop, Bath, offers gifts for the home and garden. Among the products available is a limited edition range of cedar wood gifts, which have been crafted from the tree that once stood at the top of the Thyme Walk in the Highgrove garden. The two hundred year old Cedar of Lebanon tree was one of the principal reasons that The Prince of Wales was first attracted to Highgrove. Each limited ddition cedar wood item is presented in a gift box with an authenticity certificate.

New Chrome Styling Collection launches from Ionika

Ionika has just launched a new collection of Chrome Styling Collection Irons retailing at £69.99. Available in gold, silver, pink and red metallic shades, this collection of irons features tourmaline infused bespoke black ceramic floating plates, which are equipped with ‘ion’ technology to help hair absorb minerals and vitamins safely, therefore improving the condition of hair while styling. The black tourmaline detoxifies as it heats, breaking down bacteria build up in the hair leaving it younger and more manageable. The irons also feature an advanced ceramic heating element for quick heat-up, negative ion sensor, Cruise Control to adapt the heat setting and a complimentary pink, glittery heat mat. Ionika products are available online at www.ionikapro.com.

Winners of The PPA Awards 2010 revealed

The winners of The PPA Awards 2010 were unveiled at the Grosvenor House Hotel in a ceremony last night. Guests from the magazine publishing industry gathered for the 30th anniversary of the event, which celebrates excellence in the consumer magazines and business media sector. Comedian Sean Lock handed out a total of 22 awards on the night. Pictured above is Julie Lavington of Look magazine collecting her award for Publisher of the Year (Consumer).

Full list of winners of The PPA Awards 2010:

High-quality leather shoes and accessories from Bespoke England

Bespoke England offers a chosen collection of high quality men’s shoes and accessories that have been hand-made in England. Traditional methods are used by skilled craftsmen to make shoes, leather goods and men’s accessories from fine leathers and other materials. There are both comprehensive ranges of bench made and bespoke one off pieces created to the individual’s taste. The Piccadilly case, pictured here, from Bespoke England is hand-made from leather and linen thread and is priced £1600.00.

Wednesday 16 June 2010

Pure Premium to launch this August

This August Pure London will be launching a premium section, Pure Premium, to house high profile contemporary womanswear designs. Taking over the surroundings of the Pillar Hall at Kensington Olympia, 12 international labels will be on show including Best Behaviour, Stefanel and Mardi Jeudi. Each label in Pure Premium is handpicked and representative of the best high-end boutique brands in the market. Danish brand Best Behavior, established by the designers Marie Ørberg and Malene Brøchner in 2004, will be showcasing its collection, while one of Italy’s largest fashion houses, Stefanel, will be presenting its latest collection of ultra feminine designs mixed with urban chic to buyers and retailers.

LACOSTE signs Alexa Chung for new female fragrance

LACOSTE Fragrances has signed style icon Alexa Chung to front its new female fragrance, launching globally in January 2011. “I’m very flattered that LACOSTE invited me to model for its new female fragrance. I’ve always liked LACOSTE’s casual chic image, so I’m excited to be representing the brand in this new campaign.” Alexa Chung. Alexa has recently won the Editor’s Choice category at the Elle Style Awards and was No. 1 in Vogue’s Best Dressed List 2009. As well as gracing the covers of top style magazines from Vogue, Harper’s and Elle to WWD in the US, Alexa has written a successful column for The Independent newspaper and is a contributing editor to British Vogue. “We’re delighted to be working with Alexa as an ambassador for LACOSTE as she perfectly encapsulates the brand’s youthful, modern image: stylish and vivacious with a free-spirited aura, she exudes an effortless dynamism that makes her the perfect fit with LACOSTE.” Tim Sayler, Associate Marketing Director for LACOSTE Fragrances.

Not Just A Label limited edition tees launching 23 June

Not Just A Label (NJAL) is launching a limited edition collection of organic cotton tees in partnership with new fashion talent Patrick Mohr, Aoi Kotsuhiroi and Spon Diogo. NJAL worked with three designers chosen for their sustainable sensibilities and eclectic style. London based Japanese designer Aoi Kotsuhiroi has the expression of her jewellery design translated through print on her sheer cotton fabric ‘Nowhere’ Tank Top. Patrick Mohr is one of Germany’s most current designers; his loose-fitting T-shirt silhouette provides a template for the style of the NJAL T-shirts. The simplistic graphic black and white fabric divide on both the T-shirt and tank gives a masculine edge and simplicity to these unisex styles. Spon Diogo is the design duo that provided the print for the third unisex T-shirt. With the graphic and structured take on prints and cuts that is characteristic of young Danish design, the Ying Yang T-shirt balances out the collection. The Not Just A Label Organic T-Shirts will be available in a limited stock from the online shop notjustalabel.com from 23 June, priced at £55.00 each.

New range of shoes from Moschino and Kartell

Following the success of the Mademoiselle chairs designed by Philippe Starck upholstered in original fabrics, the joint venture between Kartell and Moschino continues with the presentation of their first collection of plastic footwear for the Spring/Summer 2011 season at Pitti W today. The colourful, lightweight BowWow ballet flat shoes are entirely made from interwoven plastic with the addition of the iconic Moschino bow. The shoes are available in red, white and black, plus a wide range of summer colours – peach, geranium, yellow, forest green and periwinkle blue – and a two-tone version with black uppers and white bows. The “BowWow” shoes are the fruit of Kartell’s progress in the design of surfaces and textures, and are manufactured with an Italian industrial moulding process using a top-quality, non-toxic thermoplastic technopolymer that is 100% recyclable. The Moschino and Kartell collection will be on sale from January 2011 in leading multibrand boutiques, single-brand Moschino stores and Kartell flag stores throughout the world with a price of 85 euros.

Tuesday 15 June 2010

100% Norway to exhibit at this year´s London Design Festival

100% Norway is back this year, with talent from some of the best Norwegian design companies and manufacturers taking part in the show at this year’s London Design Festival which is taking place from 19 - 26 September 2010. Highlights at this year’s 100% Norway include new launches from both established designers and emerging talents; several manufacturers that are new to the UK, and a selection of ceramics, glassware, lighting and wall coverings. Anderssen & Voll will show various new pieces including a chair for LK Hjelle and blankets for Røros Tweed – both global launches in London – and Andreas Engesvik will be unveiling a new desk for Fjordfiesta.

Christian Louboutin new Autumn/Winter 2010 collection

Last week, Harvey Nichols Manchester customers were given the exclusive chance to be the first to see the new Autumn/Winter 2010 Christian Louboutin shoe and bag collection. Three models presented the samples to the guests who were able to pre-order their favourite style and be the first to buy them when they arrive in store in a matter of weeks. The new collection includes towering heels with studded details, classic court shoes with a twist, and the ultimate in sport luxe; the embellished high top trainer.

Fashion label Lazy Oaf introduces debut stationery collection

This season clothing label Lazy Oaf has expanded its range with a debut range of stationery. The new collection will include bold, colourful illustrations covering note books, TV planners and printed tapes. The key piece in the collection is the dateless Circus Diary with pages lined with illustrations of tight-rope walkers, clowns and freak show contestants. The collection, which is priced between £4.00 and £16.00 is available online from www.lazyoaf.com and in the Fouberts Place store now.

ELLE´s London Issue scoops design award

ELLE beat 27 contenders to win its first D&AD Award, announced during the recent annual D&AD Design Awards 2010 in London. ELLE was awarded in the ‘Magazine and Newspaper Design’ category for its ‘London Issue’ which celebrated ‘London Talent – 25 Years of Our Creative Capital’ and featured 25 specially commissioned posters displayed at key stations on the London Underground. ELLE’s award-winning ‘London Issue’ featured limited edition covers designed in collaboration with British designers – as well as London’s Mayor Boris Johnson and singer Lily Allen, both appearing on the October 2009 cover. ELLE is the only commercial fashion publication to have won a D&AD award in this category.

Monday 14 June 2010

New H.Stern jewellery collaboration inspired by ballet

H.Stern+GrupoCorpo is a new collection of modern jewels that showcase craftsmanship, merging elements of H.Stern’s passion for design with Grupo Corpo’s approach to creating modern dance spectacles. This group of jewels in 18K Yellow and Noble Gold, diamonds and coloured gemstones, is being launched as six different collections, each inspired by six different ballets. For instance the piece featured here shows earrings and a bracelet shaped as gold roses which have been inspired by the scenery of the Nazareth ballet (1993) that presented large metallic roses. Where gemstones were used, the mood has been kept monochromatic, using one gem in a colour gradient or two gems of similar hues, as seen in rings of blue topaz, citrine, garnet and amethyst, and cognac diamonds. The new collection is available H.Stern shop in the fine jewellery section of Harrods, with each of the six inspired collections launching throughout the remainder of 2010.

JoJo Maman Bébé opens two new stores

JoJo Maman Bébé, the multi-channel baby, nursery and maternity retailer, is to open two new stores in Winchester and Edinburgh. The new store at 75 Saint George’s Street, Winchester has just completed shop fitting and is due to open next week. The second location is in Multrees Walk, Edinburgh and is due to open towards the end of June. The company has had more requests from mail order customers to open in Edinburgh than any other location in the UK. With more new stores across the UK under negotiation, this private company, which launched 17 years ago continues to prioritise ethical business practices above bottom line profit. The company supports the Nema Foundation, a charity that works to reduce infant mortality and child poverty in Mozambique.

Dune introduces new Head Over Heels range this August

The new Head Over Heels collection from Dune is launching in August. This new brand for Autumn/Winter 2010, includes catwalk inspired pieces, as well as every day casual styles, at competitive prices. Boot Camp is a range of ankle boots and over the knee styles appearing in multiple profiles and colours including black suede and leopard print. Other boot styles include an over the knee black stretch wedge, a canvas and rubber lace up wedge ankle boot, fur trimmed ankle boot, a flat lace up military inspired boot and a crepe soled suede hiker boot, in neutral shades of brown, tan and taupe. The Disco Fever line includes Stiletto sandals and platforms in suede, with colours including cobalt blue, fuschia pink and scarlet. Cut out details, panelling and hardware feature on stylish black suede wedge shoe boots and sandals, and there is also a silver lace up flat jazz shoe or a metallic blue ballet pump. The new Head Over Heels Autumn/Winter 2010 collection will be available in selected Debenhams and Dune stores nationwide from 1 August.

Ethical Fashion Forum launches INNOVATION Awards

The Ethical Fashion Forum has teamed up with the Fairtrade Foundation to launch the INNOVATION Awards. On 30 June at Swarovski CRYSTALLIZED, a panel of judges that includes Fashion Business Club (FBC) members: Dolly Jones - editor of Vogue.com; Courtney Blackman - co-founder and co-chairman of FBC and MD of Forward PR; and model and Fairtrade Foundation Ambassador - Laura Bailey will choose the winners of the INNOVATION Awards. Besides exposing designers and their work to an acclaimed panel of fashion insiders, the finalists will also have the opportunity to exhibit Spring/Summer 2011 collections at either PURE or London Fashion Week’s ESTHETICA in September 2010.

SONY`s new bloggies offer easy uploading on-the-go

SONY has two new bloggie models, the PM5 and PM5K, which offer the opportunity to take five megapixel still photos and also Full HD MP4 video. Styled in a choice of four colour finishes, the bloggie features a rotating lens that swivels 270 degrees, while the high resolution 6.0cm LCD screen shows camera settings in the bottom half of the display while shooting. The PM5K also includes a special 360 Video lens adaptor that allows panoramic videos to be recorded. Colourful and light, bloggie is a spontaneous way to update personal blogs or post to social networking apps while on the move. After recording photos or video, the data can be uploaded using the camera’s embedded PMB Portable software, which launches automatically when bloggie is connected to your PC or Mac. This software allows the user to view, select and upload clips to popular social apps and media sharing sites like YouTube.

Friday 11 June 2010

Sara Berman introduces extensive Spring/Summer collection

The Spring/Summer 2010 collection from Sara Berman includes summer dresses, leather jackets, cashmere knitwear and handbags. The Sadie Mae Prom dress emphasises an hour-glass shape, with a long V-neck to draw attention down to a streamlined waist created by the wide band and then over hips to fabric that falls in folds. As well as the Liberty floral print, which includes hiding tigers, the dresses are also available in a fresh white dotted style. For a more relaxed look, the Orlah Flurry Sleeve Tunic (pictured above right) is an easy dress that can be thrown on, worn loose with sandals or with heels for the evening, this dress suits all shapes and sizes. Adding to the different designs is also the Valentine Tea Dress (pictured above left), a loose fitting design that boasts cute button details and is available in a pastel Liberty print as well as a brighter orange and pink tone. Finally, the Bow Back Dress brings elegance to the collection, with bold colours and a bow detail, this dress can be worn slouchy or cinched in with a statement belt. The new collection is available now exclusively on the website, www.saraberman.com, priced between £125.00 and £218.00.

The Observer Ethical Awards 2010 winners announced

The winners of The Observer Ethical Awards 2010, in association with Ecover, were announced at last-nights ceremony in London, presented by Colin Firth and Lucy Siegle. Among the winners was fashion brand From Somewhere which won the Fashion & Accessories category sponsored by Marie Claire. From Somewhere's viper dress has been stocked in Tesco as part of its F&F range. The entries for the awards have been selected for the final round by a panel of judges that included Colin Firth, actor; Ben Fogle, TV presenter; Sue Perkins, comedian; Kate Humble, TV presenter and Ben Okri, author, and was chaired by Lucy Siegle, ethical living correspondent, The Observer. A full list of winners is shown below:

Daniel Blake launches new luxury men`s shirt label

E One Six London is a new luxury line of men's shirts which launched this week. The E One Six London collection has been created by fashion designer Daniel Blake (known for his womenswear label). The fabrics and shirts are produced in a single European factory, with at least 35 separate parts going into the construction of one shirt. Designs in the 2010 collection will retail at around £140.00 depending on the style. The debut collection from E One Six London is available via the website which went live this week and also from luxury menswear retailers in the near future. www.eonesixlondon.com

Graduate Fashion 2010 Winners announced

Graduate Fashion Week took place this week, with the top prize - the River Island Gold Award - going to Rebecca Thomson from the Manchester University School of Art (pictured). The prize was judged and presented by Alberta Ferretti, Kim Jones, Lorraine Candy, editor-in-chief of Elle, GQ Editor Dylan Jones and Naomi Dominique; title sponsor River Island’s Womenswear Design Director. The judging criteria for the River Island Gold Award outlined that the collection should demonstrate exceptional ability in Design, Cut and Construction as well as excellent use of colour and fabric. Rhea Fields from Northbrook College was the successful winner of the Womenswear Award. She was selected for her award by the panel of Gold Award judges.

BFC announces 21 designers to receive BFC NEWGEN sponsorship

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced the names of 21 of London’s fashion design talents that will receive BFC NEWGEN sponsorship to show at London Fashion Week (LFW) in September 2010. NEWGEN is an internationally recognised talent identification scheme, with alumni including British designers Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson, Boudicca, Giles Deacon, Jonathan Saunders and more recently; Christopher Kane, Marios Schwab, Richard Nicoll, Erdem and Meadham Kirchhoff.

The recipients of NEWGEN, sponsored by Topshop are: