5 days in angus

I'm off to Scotland for a few days. My best friend's mum is getting married to a lovely Salmon Farmer so I'm heading up to Angus for a few days to stay at Lily's country pad before the Wedding. This is after stopping over in Edinburgh tonight to see Joanna for the first time since we said goodbye at Heathrow Airport after our 7 weeks around America. Please note that most of my friends do not have country houses; Lily is the brilliant exception. I'm relishing the idea of a few days of reading, no phone signal and last minute prepping before the homebased ceremony on Saturday. Her traveling around India means I haven't seen Lily for 8 months, so I can't wait for a lovely tight reunion hug.

Now all I have to do is finish the tedious task of packing. Does anybody in the world actually enjoy packing? I really am curious.

On a side note, I bought this very sweet lunchbox/flask set from eBay this morning. September may be a while off yet but I'm starting to feel the rumblings of that excitable back to school feeling. It's amazing what a gap year and university on the horizon can do for kick starting education enthusiasm..

LoFff Summer 2011 Africa Collection - Bubble London Trade Show

The theme for LoFff's Summer 2011 collection is Africa. With its diversity and beauty Africa offers a rich source of inspiration for a very fun and summery collection.

The timeless African elements were chosen including the blue of the Tuareg and the river Nile, the pink of the south African Prothea flower and the flamingo, the green of the rainforest and of course a lot of tribal influences from the many tribes in this continent, including lots of beads!

LoFff designs recurring elements which are common to all collections including amazing petticoats, very sweet dresses, cute cardigans...for hot summer days, but definitely for a fresh spring morning too. But this time you will also find decorations with elephants, rhino’s, Zulu bead designs, and of course the well known LoFff Love shirts.

Helen Gordon Launches New Brand at Bubble London

Helen Gordon’s exclusive new collection is a nostalgic journey into childhood. Helen launched her business at the beginning of 2010 with a range of clothing, accessories and interior products inspired by traditional fairytales and vintage fabrics.

Her designs are classic and practical, evoking a simpler, innocent era with their use of retro patterns and naïve motifs in a striking palette of colors.

Helen trained and worked as a textile designer for 10 years before a successful career in Buying working for high street retailers. After the birth of her third child, Helen decided to develop her own range of children’s merchandise using her artistic talents and market sector experience, created around her own unique printed fabric designs. She has produced something different: the charm of vintage combined with a classic, contemporary feel.

Helen explains, “I want to make clothes and accessories that are classic in their simplicity and beautiful in design. But I also want them to be practical and appropriate: young girls shouldn’t be wearing strapless dresses and tiny bikinis. I’ve designed bright clothes which are fun and funky, which evoke an era of simpler childhood and which let kids be kids.”

Rockabye-Baby Spring/Summer Collection 2011 at Bubble London

Created in 2006 as an antidote to the pink and blue overload, the funky punky Dutch brand Rockabye-Baby celebrates real kids: cute but with the ego of rock stars. With bright colors and bold designs inspired by music and pop culture, Rockabye-Baby is all about fun, fashion and attitude.

Rockabye-Baby launched two new collections at Bubble London: Groupies and Little Bug-R.

Groupies is for Rockabye-Baby girls who have grown up and have an edge and style of their own. With 50's style skirts and dresses and tattoo inspired tees this collection is perfect for little trendsetters.

Little Bug-R is full of fun with designs that say "can you dit it" or "slugs and bugs and rock n roll". It is an entire collection for kids who love rockin' outdoors, with the highlight being all over bug print playsuits.

All clothing comes packaged in a cool 10 inch record sleeve, making it the perfect gift!

Steiff Spring/Summer 2011 Collection - Bubble London Trade Show

Summer is coming and so is Steiff Collection’s Spring/Summer Collection 2011. For the coming summer season, the children’s clothing collection will be expanded to include three additional sections. Steiff’s home textiles range will offer bed linen and towelling goods, among others. And just in time for summer, the company will launch its first ever swimwear range for little ones.


Steiff Collection’s Newborn and Minis range offers three themes for the coming summer
season. The first is uncomplicated fashion and all-round comfort for little ones. The second theme focuses on the interplay between colors and shape. And the third theme is inspired by the element water, which provides the basis for the colors of the outfits.

The Great Speedo Debate

Today on The Tubridy Show we debated whether Irish lads showed any sartorial promise poolside. GAA jersies, sock/sandal combos and speedos were discussed; the latter which sparked my fascination into what the Aussie's term the budgie smuggler. Allegedly, the unforgiving swimwear garment is making a comeback, and if you can believe some hack in The Guardian - it's hem rise is index-linked to an uplift in the economy. I'm more fascinated by the following pointless facts:

• Alton Towers banned the banana hammock last summer for being 'not appropriate for a family venue'.
• There's been a 400% increase in searches for the word "Speedo" in the past six months, compared with the same time last year.
• Aussies and Slavics are grand with the 'aul lolly bags; our American counterparts are less forgiving however (with the exception of Mark Spitz and Magnum PI).
• Cristiano Ronaldo looks good in one.

Still not convinced? Blame Brazil. The most divisive beach fashion stems from Ipanema - home to the first male crochet g-string. Don't believe me? Check out the episode where The Simpsons go to Rio; even Homer is wearing one!

Seriously?

I know rain is a given on our sodden isle but the recent sunshine is most certainly responsible for lowering my guard (and umbrella). Exhibit A: I wore my floral palazzos and suede brogues to The Ryan Tubridy Show this morning in conditions both sunny and dry. I swished in my new trousers - peachy pleased with their elegant silhouette. Cut to the city centre in conditions both dark and wet. I squelched in my shoes, holding up the ends of my trousers like a poor manna offering to the sky. "Look what you've done to my prize pants oh Nimbus - thou harsh taskmaster!" That'll teach me for not listening to Martin King.

three lions

And this is about as far as my support for England has gone so far. I'm slightly ashamed of myself, I was excited about the prospect of the World Cup and then realism got the better of me as deep down I know that once half time arrives I'm ready to give up watching and do something else. I'm off to a BBQ at my Dad's house this afternoon so let's see how my stamina goes. The gentle thud of tennis rackets at Wimbledon is far more my bag..

More posts soon I promise!

Linda the Super

In a bid to ease myself into post-holiday work mode, I popped out for a coffee and Vogue break; as one does. Flicking through the July issue I came across 'The History of the Supermodel' - with an icnonic 1991 shoot of Linda Evangelista draped in Dior. I squealed...and may have spilled some coffee. I remember seeing this shot for the first time so many years ago - that red pixie cut, those gold boots, the sculpted bars on the lamé fishtail skirt; and man, can she work a turtleneck! Those elevated poised arms and peek-a-boo eyes said 'you want this' and I did. Ever since, I've used this silhouette as my sartorial archetype. Most recently I found a pair of gold lamé capri pants for €20 in Lucy's Lounge and bought them as an homage. I spied Erin O'Connor at LFW in a similar pair of gold Marc Jacobs boots and coveted them lascivously. Similarly, I found a website that makes fishtail skirts - albeit in black - and declared this to be the AW10/11 sequel to summer's tubular maxi. If one shot could capture the imagination of the public for so long, there's a damn good reason Linda & Co. were dubbed 'super'.

Salty Dog Spring/Summer 2011 at Bubble London

Since 1971 Dutch brand Salty Dog has created authentic wear for boys and girls sizes 80-176.

For Spring/Summer 2011 authentic American brand Salty Dog is back to its former glory with the advent of Salty Dog Vintage Apparel. A strong "back to the U.S.A.” feeling has redirected Salty Dog back on track. Born in New York, re-styled in Amsterdam……Strong for almost 40 years!

Varsity Sports Team '71
Based on the typical American university sports such as Rugby, American Football, Baseball and Rowing Regatta. Mix of vintage and sportswear. Synthetic materials in "trainer jackets" and "trainer trousers" combined with vintage washed cotton T-shirts and polo’s. Double sleeved t-shirts, rugby shirts, plain shirts and checked ones with a lot of badges, embroideries and prints. Garment dyed shorts and pants with many pockets. Colors: White, Blue Navy, Blue Mist, Grey Marl and accents in Black, Green Grass and Lilac Tiger.

Rocky Mountain Adventures
Based on adventure sports like White Water Rafting and Truck Races. American boys scout details. Mixture of t-shirts with large striking prints and checkered shirts with badges and embroideries in sporty designs. Bermuda shorts with pockets and trousers in "light to travel" fabrics. Pique polo shirts with uniform details. Colors: White Snow, Blue Pacific, Red Dragon, Khaki Dessert, Grey Marl.

California Dream Tour
Based on wave surfing. Tropical surf prints, surf slang lyrics, flowers and checks, the typical "California Dreaming" feeling: "A bad day on the surf is better than a good day on school!" Authentic Salty Dog Surf School instructor badges. Colors: White, Pink Beach, Oriental Blue, Khaki Sand, Coffee Brown and Pink Magenta accents.

S&D Le Chic Spring/Summer 2011 Collection at Bubble London

Ethical baby fashion brand S&D Le Chic, presented by A-Brands, offers a comfortable Classic collection with a trendy touch for boys & girls sizes 62-164.

Four seasons ago started as a “special occasion brand”, S&D Le Chic has become a full classic brand with a trendy touch for girls, boys and baby’s. S&D Le Chic offers now three themes. Aside from the Spring and Summer collection, S&D Le Chic brings a Pre-Spring theme which will for sure surprise you when you see the collection dresses.

Theme 1 - Pre-Spring in white - dark blue - off white - black with silver details. Stretch materials combined with traditional poplins, linen fabrics and fine knits. Designs as "dancing balls" and "Lovely Birds", combined with stripes and embroidered flowered “Gaultier” sequins create a festive theme with a trendy touch. For the boys chambray, stripe shirts and checks with badges and embroideries, classic pique polo shirts and striped all over suits.

Theme 2 - Spring-Summer in the colors mouse gray - pink - anthracite and medium pink mint - dirty brown. A casual addition to the pre-spring program. With striking shapes of tight to wide and low waist to high waist. Designs as "flowers with butterflies" give this theme a romantic look. Soft knits and jerseys combined with fine silky-touch cotton comfortable dresses with a luxurious look. For the boys check trousers and striped polo shirts, striped and check shirts with a 'Royal' appearance.

Theme 3 Spring-Summer in the colors dark blue - light blue - red and bright pink - yellow - khaki. Get a summer beach feeling with designs like "dancing hearts", "allover-colored balls" and "exotic flowers”. Linen dresses with tops for "peel" effect. Cotton spandex t-shirts and for cool evenings the fine knit cardigans. For the boys "easy to wear” linen pants and shirts with cheerful designs, to enjoy a stroll on the boulevard.

Bee-Bee Organic Baby and Kid's Loungewear at Bubble London Trade Show

Ethical baby fashion brand bee-bee launched its new collection of organic lounge wear for babies and kids at Bubble London. The 2011 Summer collection, based on bee-bee's trademark spirit of simplicity with fresh pastels, pretty floral prints and humorous slogans, and introduces animal patterns in this season's new look.

In the spirit of fairtrade that defines bee-bee's ethos, the baby and kid's lounge wear collection - which includes bodysuits, vests, nightdresses, leggings and lounge pants - is all made from 100% super soft organic cotton produced in India and certified by GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard).

Mother of two Agnes Guillard launched bee-bee in 2008 after attending the Re:Fashion exhibition organized by Anti-Apathy where she was distraught to learn about the highly damaging consequences of conventional cotton on mankind and the environment.

Agnes explains, "I was expecting my first child Josephine when I attended the conference and was appalled to find out how harmful on the environment the cotton industry can be. I realized there was a niche in the market to create eco-friendly baby clothes that would help protect the environment as well as the baby’s sensitive skin."

Bee-bee’s range of sweet, fresh and simple lounge wear offers the perfect basics any caring mother needs to dress her baby in a healthy, comfortable and stylish grow whilst taking a step to help save the environment.

ilovegorgeous Spring/Summer 2011 Collection at Bubble London Trade Show

Gorgeous! Gorgeous! Simply Gorgeous!

Inspired by the moody skies and colors of an English summer ilovegorgeous has put together a collection for Spring/Summer 2011 that incorporates dusty plums, soft grey and sage greens along side delicate vintage inspired English rose floral prints. Soft, pretty and understated.

Into the gentle summer an injection of fun is provided in the form of a mini festival inspired burst of hot color froth and net. The festival dress is an over the top party and designed to be worn with wellies and mud. There are also cute shorts and deep pocket skirts to be teamed with pretty tops and fine cotton knitwear, cool cotton dresses and some soft viscose jersey pieces for fun and comfort.

New for SS11 is a capsule baby wear collection for girls from 6 months. Including cute romper suits in gorgeous cotton prints and jersey as well as pretty tops with matching ruffled pants and bloomers!

DRESS4FUN from Portugal at Bubble London Trade Show

100% Portuguese, DRESS4FUN clothing for babies and children is made with noble and very comfortable fabrics.

And because playing is what the little ones like better, each item is also an amusing and very colorful "toy" so that, with a thousand smiles, they create the most fantastic adventures.

DRESS4FUN also counsels with professionals in the areas of pediatrics, psychology and education in order to better adapt items to the particular needs of each step of child development.

Boys&Girls Launches at Bubble London with Spring/Summer ‘11 collection

An exciting new addition to British Kids-wear for 0 to 10 year olds, Boys&Girls was launched at Bubble London with its Spring/Summer ‘11 collection ‘Out To Play’.

Brilliant and bright, Boys&Girls clothes are designed for today’s vibrant urban lifestyle and created with care.

Whether picked out by parents or pulled on by kids, each garment looks great dressed up or dressed down. So, from party to park, every day feels bright and special.

Boys&Girls clothing combines soft, quality fabrics with bold colors and distinctive styles that look good yet are comfy and practical allowing kids to be kids.

Key styles include bold printed vests, retro sweat pieces, fun slogan t-shirts, pretty printed sundresses and richly colored soft separates and jumpsuits.

Based in London’s vibrant East End, Boys&Girls directors are an established team with a combined 40 years experience in the retail industry, including at some of the UK’s best known brands.

The Boys&Girls company ethos is ‘created with care’; not only because they care about the quality and functionality of the garments, but also because they try to do the right thing in general. The clothing is made from 100% Organic cotton in a Fair Trade factory in India.

Koeka Summer in France 2011 Collection - Bubble London Trade Show

Koeka is a high quality and trendy brand from The Netherlands, whose identity is Positive, Inspiring, Colorful and Unique. It offers an extensive range of lifestyle and ‘taking care’ products, clothing and accessories for babies and children from 0 to 10 years old.

The company was founded in 1998 by two Dutch mums, with a fashion background, who were just missing the right products for their babies. Koeka was born!

Never Out Of Stock
One of Koeka’s biggest strengths is their basic, never out of stock collection. A broad assortment of pajamas for babies and kids, next to ‘taking care’ products and basic Home-line, can be ordered on a weekly basis.

Summer in France
For summer 2011, Koeka is introducing their “Summer in France” Beachwear. In swimwear, cute, little swimming trunks and sturdy board shorts for baby boys and kids and sweet, puffy swimming pants for baby girls are shown next to girly bathing suits and cheeky bikinis with matching skirts for girls. Beautiful dresses and skirts and trendy jumpsuits, shorties and tank tops in Tricot, Short Weave Terry Toweling and Linen, mix and match very well and combine perfectly with swimwear.

UK's Angel Living is now distributing Koeka in the UK and presented Koeka at Bubble London.

loot

heads up; my eBay items end tomorrow!
crop tops, loafers, cord shorts, 90s towelling sweaters, nom nom nom.

have a look here

ps, international shipping!

festival season

rachel comey crochet top, lipstick in 'media' by mac, monki savannah shorts, olympus trip 35 camera, rachel comey baron t-strap shoes

monki 'ninni tee' in white melange (on sale), weekday 'grass pant's in charcoal, asos 'hannah' sandals, asos canvas mix satchel

festival season is in full swing with glastonbury celebrating it's 40th anniversary this weekend. I live just a few miles down the road and the hot, dry weather we've been having can only spell good things for a mud-free weekend. and so here is some outfit inspiration if you'll be heading down or have any festivals on the cards for this summer. aside from the obvious like wellies and a lightweight mac don't forget babywipes and dry shampoo. and big litre bottles of water. and leave your demin cut offs at home. for real, if you do that you'll be the only one not wearing them and I shall salute you for it.

Mim-Pi Girl's Summer Collection 2011 - Bubble London Trade Show

The sun always shines in the world of Mim-Pi! The 2011 summer collection for cute, fashion-conscious girls up to 10 years of age carries the distinct signature of Mim-Pi designer Leonora Nieuwenhuizen.

You'll find vivid colors, varied designs and cheerful appliques. Adorable, yet trendy at the same time! Everything from t-shirts, skirts, wellies and socks to beach wear including various swimsuits, bikinis and beach outfits with retro kitty or Blythe doll prints. The extensive baby-girl collection transforms every little lady into a beautiful princess.

Mim-Pi has also entered into some extraordinary collaborations. For example, Mim-Pi has created an exclusive design in conjunction with the ladies from All The Luck in The World. And Fien, a little girl with Down syndrome, won MIM-PI'S NEXT TOP MODEL and shows the prettiest dresses as a highly competent catwalk queen. She is the perfect example of 'Let the sun shine down on me!' To sum it all up, this is a wonderfully sunny summer collection.

Hip Girly-girly
With Lolita-like frilly dresses and skirts, jumpsuits, tunics, leggings and the prettiest frocks and, of course, loads of T-shirts with brightly coloured retro embroidered appliqués like Bambi and little horses, Mim-Pi dares to mix it up. It uses daring combinations of motifs, designs and colours to create stunning complete outfits. Featuring puffed sleeves, borders and smocking, embroidery and a bit of lace, along with Mim-Pi's exclusive prints and the finest details, the outfits evoke that summer feeling in genuinely girly girls. And for those hip little ladies who would rather skip through life in a pair of sneakers!

Colour and inspiration
Of course there’s a lot of pink, but the combination of pink with white, denim blue or grey ensure that it's never overdone. A maritime theme with typical navy blue, as well as bright red – combined with each other or with white - offers a huge range of possible combinations.

The Blythe dolls (which the designer collects) and animal figures that Leonora discovered while travelling form the basis for the prints and give the designs an amazing effect. Thus, even the most girly pink dress is given a zesty twist The prints are cute and naïve at the same time and appeal directly to children.

born in the usa

ashley smith by roberta ridolfi

It's just as interesting to observe the changing trend in models as it is the changing trend in the clothes we wear. boobs and teeth are GO!

Surguy Smart Clothing For Lucky Boys at Bubble London Trade Show

The perfect boys shirt for this Summer's Wedding, Surguy Clothing, a new online fashion retailer, offers Jermyn Street styled shirts and pyjamas to boys aged 3-10 years.

Featuring “Smart clothing for lucky boys!” the range features a wide selection of designs made from a selection of 100% cotton 2-fold poplins, twills, classic oxfords and brushed cottons, all of which ooze quality and the crisp styling synonymous with Jermyn Street tailoring.

The shirts are a classic tailored button down long sleeved design with a center pleat between the shoulders which look fantastic worn casually or more formally, summer or winter.

Priced at £25 per shirt, Surguy shirts offer great value for money when compared to designer labels which typically start from £30. Surguy shirts do not display prominent motifs on the front - often the bane of many a parent!

The pyjamas are made from luxurious soft brushed cotton with detailed piping around the edge of the tops and pull string effect on the bottoms. Just the thing as boys drift off to sleep and dream of thrashing the Aussies again! In a range of colors, the pyjamas are priced at £25.

Surguy Clothing, was set up by Edward Surguy, himself a father of 2 boys aged 5 and 7. The company was borne from numerous fruitless searches for great quality shirts and pyjamas at sensible prices.

Nyoki Handmade London Children's Clothing - Bubble London Trade Show

Nyoki Handmade London is inspired by a mother and daughter duo that combine each of their talents to create exquisite handmade gifts and greeting cards with love and care.

Nyoki’s style is eclectic - a combination of vintage, traditional and contemporary. Eco-friendly and unique, each item will stand the test of time and they come in a wealth of beautiful and natural colors.

Nyoki's designers come from Kosovo, where handmade crafting is a tradition. The art of crafting is passed down from generation - so they thought why not pass it as a gift to someone that they don't know?

Products are designed in London and are handmade in UK and Kosova. Nyoki works closely with a job creation program in Kosova by giving woman survivors of war the confidence and the means to support themselves and their families – to help rebuild their lives.

Danefæ Kids Clothing from Denmark at Bubble London Trade Show

Looking to Nordic mythology and the constant Scandinavian drizzle for inspiration, Danefæ had its first big success with brightly printed ladies raincoats back in 2006.

Danefæ continues to produce them to this day, along with our ever expanding range of rainwear, outerwear, t-shirts, dresses, skirts, bodysuits, sweatshirts and knitwear for ladies, men, babies, and sticky-pawed cubs.

Danefæ colors and prints are updated each season, but the guiding line remains the same: Denmark's most legendary icons, and the warm and fuzzy inside to the chilly Northern Latitudes from which they sprung.

Danefæ Summer 2011 collection will be no exception: A full range in line with the Danefæ code of bright stripes and prints, vikings, mermaids and the North Sea's finest herring.

Marithé+François Girbaud Children's Collection Fall/Winter 2010 - Bubble London Trade Show

The Marithé+François Girbaud children's collection for Fall/Winter 2010 mirrors the "Washdelux" theme of the adult line, a response to the desire to "wash" away the entrenched notions of luxury and begin writing a new story. The collection plays with the fashion codes and bows roguishly to the glitz and ambiance of a glittering gala…but with a razor sharp edge!

Navy Delux
Rules blur and the barriers break! The silhouettes abandon the rules and indulge in all kinds of variations. Gray denim can be impeccable or ultra-"used" looking, worn with a rock'n'roll leather jacket feminized with floral studs. The light-as-air quilted jackets take on A-line shapes with a surprising sense of volume. Engraved “coat of arms” buttons and M+FG emblems subvert the uniform of young sailors on leave in a wool pea coat.

Red Delux
The staging is electric, luminescent, pulsating. The winter tone is set : a shift from shadows to light ! A range of warm luminescent colors, from orange to vermillion, is blended with a plush "crafty grey." The materials engage in eye-catching clashes, matt and shiny effects collide. Borrowed from adultswear, the outsized polyshape memory check sits alongside a rustic cavalry twill.


Black Delux
Opulence.Luxury: a Marithé+François Girbaud definition of Delux! The elegant look defines a new "casual deluxe" style, blurring the boundaries between masculine and feminine. The stripe of the men's suit appears on deconstructed jackets, worn over easygoing tapered pants. Mini-me "Washdelux" and "Boyfriend series" tee-shirts are worn over jeans — Boyfriend jeans, of course!

DKNY KIDS Autumn/Winter 2010 - Bubble London Trade Show

From the Broadway music theaters to the Bowery underground concerts, the eclectic musical vibrations of New York have inspired a DKNY kids collection imbued with an electric and energetic attitude - just like the Big Apple! Glamorous or slightly rebellious, authentic and trendy, the DKNY Autumn/Winter 2010 collection sets a furious pace for the season!

New York City
The start of the season combines the city chic look with daring glamorous touches.
The masculine/feminine style has a casual look, lending itself to all kinds of shapes and volumes: tapered loose-fitting trousers in woven flannel, rolled up at the bottom. Like the shorts, they can be worn with clean city jackets.

City Jean
An assumed femininity blends with the military style codes, in an effervescent mix of genres! Fluid Tencel trousers are worn tied at the waist, with partially tucked-in shirts. Heavy-gauge sweaters are matched with used denims, and the woollen cloth three-quarter length coat is customised with a casual hood.

City Rock
The atmosphere becomes electric...to the rhythm of underground music, DKNY brilliantly revives the rock attitude of the late 80s. The short jacket, in an extra-small denim version, and the studded leather jacket regain their status as key pieces, mixed with bleached black jeans.

Timberland Kidswear Collection Autumn/Winter 2010 - Bubble London Trade Show

From summit to sea, the Timberland Autumn/Winter 2010 kids collection explores the many faces of an authentic, unspoiled land - New England. The outdoors and the environment preservation are the core of this collection, which resonates with the brand's commitment to environmental protection.

Drawn from the heart of Timberland’s geographical roots, the inspirations are contemporary and imbued with a new energy, from the Harvard campuses to the industrial docks of Boston... and of course the great outdoors!

Nature asserts its rights: Timberland awakens our ecological consciences with committed messages and some Earthkeepers outfits featured throughout the whole collection, designed using eco-friendly material (organic cotton, recycled polar fleece) and treatments (water prints).

To enjoy trekking in great outdoors, Timberland launches this season a new technical line inspired by the Adultswear apparel line “TMA Mountain Athletics”.

The design is functional, offering boys who are eager for freedom and movement a comfortable, daring line, without compromising on style!

ELLE Children's Collection Fall/Winter 2010 at Bubble London Trade Show

The ELLE children's collection offers a subtle distillation of the latest trends, decoded and reinterpreted. The 2010 Fall/Winter collection has one foot in the classroom and the other in the parks of Paris, drawing inspiration from retro-chic or contemporary looks. ELLE has created a wardrobe made up of the season's basics and irresistible fashion pieces, for a warm, light-spirited winter!

Tableau noir
As back to school period starts, ELLE allows little girls to use their imagination at the blackboard! In the streets of Paris the feel is retro-chic, slyly evoking François Truffaut's film "The 400 Blows". Recalling a schoolchild's notebook, the check pattern plays up on blouses or in skirts with an emphasized waist, in high-contrast linings. The silhouette is crafted to look light and structured. A-line dresses take on pared-down lines, while Bermuda shorts and trousers in gray stretch satin are highlighted by thin candy-pink piping.


Rendez-vous d’automne
Fall will be the new "grand season" with ELLE! On an outing with her girlfriends in the parks of Paris, our schoolgirl shows off the nuances of warm orange-tinged colors, sprinkled with flowers to enliven the autumn.  For a casual, trendy look, girls can opt for “liberty” prints on tunic dresses and on blouses to be worn with straightforward clean denim. Adorned with yarn embroidery, in boot-cut jeans or shorts with suspenders, and even in a boyish vest, denim lends itself to every variation!

Star Diva
To end the year on a beautiful note, a contemporary feminine story, imbued with dreamy poetry… to be worn in an everyday or dress-up version!  Winter is aglow with sparkling paste detailing on the tops, while slim vinyl belts emphasize the waist of velvet trousers. ELLE has its head in the clouds with an all-over print of a starry sky, or silhouetting the graceful outline of a little girl taking flight.

tati cotliar

Tati Cotliar is fast becoming my new model crush. Her off-duty style reminds me of Iekeliene Stange's but perhaps that's only because they share the ability to stray away from the all black forumla. I have also only recently made the link that all along she has been the inspiration behind me growing out my roots; after she covered the front of a Topshop zine with her prominent two-tone hair. Here are some of her 'favouries':

Film: Manhattan by Woody Allen
Band/artist: Pink Floyd, John Coltrane, Serge Gainsbourg
Colour: "Any colour you like"
Place: Tilcara, in the north of Argentina
Person: Groucho Marx, Syd Barrett, Albert Camus, Diane Keaton in Annie Hall, Johnny depp in Edward Scissorhands, Salvador Dali
Book: L'étranger by Albert Camus

image: Otto Vankerkhove
favourites from: Milly Mcmahon

Frigiliana Finds

Even in a remote Andalusian village, I Blog Fashion still manages to get her shop on. Check out these gorge finds including an industrial neckpiece (€14), coral (€4) and turquoise (€10) finger bling. I would have pummeled the shopping depths of Frigiliana further had my suitcase not weighed a bloated 23.5 kilos. The irony? 4.5 kilos of that was already jewellery!

Bouton Kids Launches Limited-Edition Children's Wear at Bubble London Trade Show

Bouton Kids, a new label that offers limited-edition children’s wear using exclusive, artisanal textiles in 100 percent cotton, wool or silk, launched their new brand exclusively at The Bubble London Kids Trade Show.

Bouton Kids was founded by Rekha with the intention of creating clothes that are individually styled using beautiful fabrics.

Fresh, elegant, chic and charming, the collection uses traditional textiles from India that are entirely hand woven and naturally dyed, and include block prints, woven checks and stripes, ikat, twill, embroidery and threadwork.

Bouton clothes are modern, understated and have an individual look. Key styles include reversible jackets lined with flannel, tops/blouses, shirts, tunics, trousers, dresses, skirts and nightwear. Sizes range from 2-12 years.

Nicki Macfarlane Spring/Summer 2010 Children's Collection at Bubble London Trade Show

Nicki Macfarlane has been a leading designer of bespoke dresses and outfits for bridesmaids, flower girls and pageboys for many years. Her award winning designs feature regularly in leading UK bridal publications and her clients have included many celebrity and society brides.

This year Nicki is launching her first ready to wear collection of occasion wear for children from birth to age 12 as well as the introduction of beautiful communion dresses and christening robes and a stunning range of day wear.

By playing with countless combinations of beautiful colors brides are encourage to inject a bit of their own style into the look of their attendants. The finest silks, organzas, taffetas and organdies, as well as exquisite hand embroidery and sumptuous petticoats, are brought together to create a truly lovely as well as adaptable collection. Choose from a large range of styles designed to be appropriate for the smallest flower girls as well as more sophisticated older bridesmaids. Then pick from a stunning color palette of toning silk, decide on a matching or contrasting sash and button color, ending up with a very personalized look.

Nicki is also launching Nicki Macfarlane Blue, her first range of daywear for boys and girls aged 2 to 8. Its roots are in classic English childrenswear but with contemporary styling. Including perfect pinnies, gorgeous smocks, well cut trousers and pretty print tops and shirts, this collection is defined by its attention to detail and sophisticated color palette. It is an elegant collection designed to appeal to both mother and child.

Pili Pala Childrenswear Launch Organic Collection at Bubble London Trade Show

Sunday was the first day of the Bubble London Kids Trade Show and Pili Pala Childrenswear launched its new organic collection.

Strengthening Pili Pala's ethos of ethically produced clothes that are made to last, the new collection again contains pieces which are both unisex and trans-seasonal with funky design-led garments using the softest organic cotton, velour and recycled fabric.

The most exciting aspect of the new collection is the launch of an underwear range in soft organic cotton which includes boy’s briefs, girl’s briefs and a multi-purpose unisex vest in sizes 2 – 12 years.

Pili Pala’s founder, Berith Lochery, explains, “Following the success of our first two collections I wanted to increase our offer to both our retailers and consumers. Our ethos of producing funky, practical clothes in the softest organic cotton should be applied to underwear too. More and more parents appreciate the quality of our organic garments and it seemed natural to introduce underwear into the collection.”

Hot on the heels of the successful introduction of Pili Pala babywear during AW10, the new babywear range includes babygros, hats and bibs all available in red or red and navy stripes – equally stylish for baby girls or boys. Created in soft organic cotton, the babywear range is sure to be a big hit with babies and their parents. Available in sizes from birth to 12 months.

Pili Pala’s third collection continues its signature identity of stylish, clean lines which emphasize comfort along with strong playful stripes and an increased colour palette of bold color blocks in red, red and navy stripes with highlights of yellow embroidery.

All of Pili Pala’s clothes are produced using organic fabric and ethical processes. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the garments are a fantastic combination of sensational style and comfortable clothing which are produced without compromising on ethical or environmental standards.

david mackenzie

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY, PA

Thank you for:

Introducing me to Harold and Maude and Tilda Swinton.
Reading me The Twits, Danny the Champion of The World, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory at bedtime.
Your rude jokes.
Passing on those thick eyebrows and long legs.
Not passing on your strangely long second toe.
Teaching me patience (you didn't do this intentionally, sometimes your company requires it.)
Too many nights beside bonfires to keep track of.
Too many spiders removed from my bedroom to keep track of.
Insisting we live in a caravan. I now realise how much I loved those years.
All of those guinea pigs when I was 4.
Teaching me to love storms rather than fear them.
Really good hugs.

Love you, man.

vie heroique

I can't wait to see the Serge Gainsbourg biopic Vie Heroique. Sadly no release date for the UK as of yet while it continues it's tour of the film festivals.

Another title to be added to that genre of fashionable films, we can expect very authentic incarnations of some of Birkin's memorable outfits (think her revealing crochet mini and shopping basket combo) and Gainsbourg's mannerisms down to a tee thanks to Eric Elmosnino.

shopping basket search

I'm glad I didn't hit 'bid' on any of those wicker shopping baskets I scouted on eBay last week, because last night whilst sprawled on the sofa I spotted this out of the corner of my eye. it's incredible how items around the house can become invisible with familiarity. this has been lying around for years and was used for small trowels and other gardening tools.

It was my first shift back at Topshop today and before leaving I emptied the contents of my totebag into it. my book, topshop lanyard, some make up, a notepad and pen, my camera.. (the heavy necessities that one day when plagued with back problems I'll regret). Though
Jane Birkin was the obvious inspiration, I felt more like Little Red Riding Hood when I also added Vanilla Rainbow cakes to my load. I made them last night to share with the girls on my floor but in truth myself and Jo ended up gobbling most of them up at lunchtime.

I do recommend carrying a basket. Purely because it's a nice change that forces me to use a bag as a bag rather than a comfort blanket. I'm guilty of that habit of holding onto the strap of my bag to counteract the 'what on earth do I do with my hands?' feeling whilst walking down the street on down days. With a sturdy wooden handle there is no option but to swing it from your arms and adopt good posture.

Summer 2010 Kids Fashion Clearance at Childrensalon

Childrensalon Spring/Summer 2010 Clearance - Up to 50% off Wide Range of Designer Kids Clothing!

Childrensalon invites you to browse their wide selection of designer brands for girls and boys ranging from 0 to 16 years old.

Find designers from around the globe including: ALBERTA FERRETTI, ANTIK BATIK, ARMANI, BABY GRAZIELLA, BURBERRY, CHLOÉ, DIOR, DOLCE & GABBANA, ESCADA, I PINCO PALLINO, JOHN GALLIANO, JOTTUM, KENZO, MISS GRANT and many more!!

What Are You Doing This Weekend? Bubble London Kids Trade Show

If you're looking for something fun to do (and are in London), Bubble London has something for everyone from June  20-21st!

You'll find over 200 of kids brands from around the globe from huge international names to niche labels that are just waiting to be discovered.

From clothing to gifts, footwear to interiors, accessories to toys, Bubble London has the whole of the industry covered.

Once again, Bubble London will be supporting the children’s charity Kid’s Company, which provides practical, emotional and educational support to vulnerable inner-city children and young people.

new listings

some new listings up on eBay:

High Waisted Brown Cord Shorts

Small Leather Loafers

1970s Towel Sweater

See also:

90s Patterned Crop Top
Suede Green Loafers

style notes for the guys

1. robert redford in 'all the president's men' 2. uten silo wall holder by dorothee becker
3. nuclear testing in the nevada desert 4. spike jonze directing meryl streep in 'adaptation'
5. paintbrushes 6. thomas mars 7. martin sheen and sissy spacek in 'badlands' 8. a treehouse

tuesday activities etc

After an 8.30 start for a few hours of painting walls (apparently-and fortunately given current finances-I'm the house mule with my Mum paying me for shitty jobs) I headed into town with money burning a hole in my pocket.

I came back with the following:

-houseplant
-frost/nixon
-frost nixon watergate interviews
-norwegian wood by murakami
-washington dc by gore vidal
-the killer inside me by jim thompson

somehow I managed to justify the spending with the fact that they're mostly materials to kickstart my preparation for reading American Studies in the autumn. after watching 'All The President's Men' last night (and wishing that Robert Redford circa 70s still existed) the Watergate themed films are top of my list.

And in terms of my outfit today; an Obama cartoon t-shirt which I bought off of eBay. I love it because it's beautifully unfunny despite the creator's best efforts. A caricature of Bush is saying to Obama 'I don't think you can fix my mess..' and Obama is grinning back 'Yes We Can!' It's like 'is that the best you could come up with? Well, bless you for trying'. Also my black Monki peg legs which are getting a lot of wear at the moment and my faithful black leather lace ups.

I leave you with 'Caravan' by Blur which was playing as I browsed the DVD section in Fopp earlier.

diana christensen

Faye Dunaway as the brilliant and psychotic television producer Diane Christensen in Network.

20% off Catimini Summer Collection at Cute Little Clothes Baby Boutique

Online Boutique Cute Little Clothes is offering 20% off the entire French Catimini Summer Collections for Baby, Boy and Girl.

Plus find new markdowns on Tea Collection and BabySoy's new organic collection.