WANTED: Statement Collars

This season I can’t get enough of the statement collar; bringing a playful fashion edge to the otherwise straightlaced styles of button up shirts and good-girl shift dresses. In leather, print, fur, embellishment and sparkle; simply take your pick.
Where better to start than with a piece from the man with the most recognizable collars in fashion today. To accessorize any outfit this autumn, simply add this be-jewelled collar from Mr. Lagerfeld’s very own label, KARL.

For a more subtle, graphic look this loose fit, tunic dress from Stella McCartney is spot on. In the vibrant cobalt blue shade of the season, the contrasting neckline is a sweet directional detail.

My personal favourite has to be this silk blouse from Preen. With a simple concealed back fastening, the clean lines accentuate the vibrant collar and cuffs. After all, if you’re going to do a statement collar, you might as well go all out in floral-and-insect print and bright orange!

The saccharine edge is taken off this super sweet powder blue sweater by the contrasting embellished collar. In an on-trend retro style, this piece from Miu Miu is a winner for winter in my eyes.

But since Autumn/Winter comprises the festive season, a round up of the trend would hardly be complete without a party frock to dazzle in. Look no further than this frostily pale, panelled dress from Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti.

The studded collar makes this classic little white dress into one of the season’s standouts. Pair with complimentary ice-toned accessories and dazzle away!

Aisha
www.trisori.com

Lace Up

Lace has been a prominent feature of catwalks and collections for the last few seasons, and it’s a trend that is going nowhere. Instead, it has had an update; a lace renovation. In the same way that this autumns florals are dark and dangerous, lace has also gone in the same edgy direction. This seasons take on the historically delicate trim is all about layering and contrast, and its not afraid to be bold!
Make a statement in this vibrant chartreuse lace dress from Erdem. With bead embellishment and contrast print neckline, it is a standout example of the elusive demure-sexy balance.

For more casual occasions, Stella McCartney brings us this contrast lace print silk top. With oversized lace patterning it is perfect paired with slim tailored trousers; either in black for a classic rock’n’roll edge, or in one of autumns warm jewel tones to make the print pop.

Glamour and lace go hand in hand but for an extra added modern sheen, pair it with metallics as Preen did with this icy-blue, layered pencil skirt.

To make the most of this piece, pair with a simple blouse and keep the metallic theme running through your accessories.
Perhaps some of our obsession with lace has been fuelled by last year’s royal wedding and ‘that dress’. The sheer sleeves and snug fit were a dreamy combination. Claim a darker touch of that magic for yourself with Matthew Williamson’s lace sleeved, printed jersey gown.

The floor sweeping length and iridescent peacock tones are complemented by its figure hugging silhouette.
This season, this classic decorative material is definitely taking centre stage, so whichever way you wear it, let it be the focal point by pairing with clean separates and keeping accessories toned down for a fail safe standout look that will see you right through till spring.


Aisha
www.trisori.com

Why Peplums Are Your Friend

The wave of peplums adorning jackets, tops, skirts and dresses which flooded the catwalks and collections this season can, for many, be rather intimidating. Like most women I know, I have a strict aversion to any clothing that could potentially make my hips look any larger than they need. And, at first glance, peplums can seem to fall into this category. However, a well cut peplum can be supremely flattering as well as fashion forward, falling largely into the rather more desirable category of ‘hides a multitude of sins’. From floaty to structured, minimalist to baroque era frills, this seasons peplum come in a range of incarnations to suit your every mood.

To ease yourself into the trend, try this sequin embellished, super sweet miniskirt by Preen.

The subtle ruffling at the waist is understated while still remaining a feature. Make sure to show it off by tucking in whatever top you choose to pair it with.
If this has whet your appetite for the waist enhancing frill, then Alexander McQueen’s emerald green dress should be right up your street.

With a tightly drawn in waist and fitted skirt, the peplum frill will draw welcome attention to the smallest part of the torso while skimming rather politely over the tops of the hips and stomach. Is it any wonder the fashion pack have welcomed the style with open arms?
For a more structured look, The Row bring us a clean cut tailored peplum in soft cotton jersey with black silk trim.

Wear this piece with a pencil skirt or skinny jeans; the key to keeping the peplum flattering is to pair it with slim cut, fitted clothing: the peplum is volume enough all by itself.
If you are looking to make a striking statement this season then look no further than this scarlet Osman number.

Against the clean lines and colour block style, the leather peplum is a stand out feature. There is no need to overdress this piece, simply team with minimalist heels, an up-do and Trisori’s Bubbles earrings for the ultimate on trend ensemble. 

Aisha

www.trisori.com

Hermès & Co sample sales!

Designer Sales UK
Fri., noon-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB.

Ash
6-10 June. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Location: 77 Great Titchfield St., W1W 6RF

Erdem
Thurs., 1-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Location: The Future Gallery, 5 Great Newport St., WC2H 7HY.

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi
Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: Portobello Green, 281 Portobello Rd., W10 5TZ

Hermès
Up to 60 per cent off women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and shoes.
10 & 11 June. Fri., 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB

French Connection
Fri., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Location: Centro One, 39 Camden St., NW1 ODX

Babajaan & Go-British
Up to 70 per cent off beachwear, swimwear, dresses and accessories for men and women.
11 June. Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: 20th Century Theatre, 291 Westbourne Gr., W11 2QA

Paul Frank
6-10 June. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Location: Global Apparel Showroom, 12-14 Wilfred St., SW1E 6PL