FASHION

THE CLOSET DETOX

Top tips on how to update your look on a student budget.

"New Year, New me" - the mantra spoken by the thousands, following the dawn of the New Year. However, can the masses that talk the talk, actually walk the walk? Seamlessly achieving an effortlessly chic look every day, is neither an easy not idealistic feat. Although our student budget cannot afford the daily service of personal stylists, you can still update your style, using your own creativity to differentiate your look.
No matter the obstacle, it is easily achievable to evolve and update your personal style. Here are your top tips on the ultimate closet detox- without the juicing!

GET THE UNDER LAYERS RIGHT.

Put a bra-fitting on the  2014 'To-Do' List!

To build your look, it is key to start with the foundations. A shocking 80% of females wear the wrong bra size according to a recent survey. The right bra is crucial not just for comforts sake, but to create the illusion of a smooth silhouette. As stated my Georgio Armarni, "the difference between style and fashion is quality". So invest your time into finding the right undergarments suitable to your personal shape, and budget. LSE is fortunate to have an array of high street fashion brands right at it's doorstep, so seize this opportunity. Its a style sin not to! 

ENSURE YOU HAVE THE KEY FASHION ESSENTIALS

A house can never become a home without the essentials. So how you expect your wardrobe be too? A key mistake made by many is assuming that they must by the latest 'it' garment of the season, but fashion trends are cyclical, constantly changing like the British weather. No LSE student can conform to every style trend of the moment; it is both financially, and pragmatically unfeasible, especially with the momentous workload! So invest in core classic pieces, that will never go out of season. 

The simple LBD- a wardrobe must have.

Do you prefer the quirky look, as opposed to a classic style?

Remember that fashion is architecture- its a matter of building and constructing a look using these fundamental pieces according to your personal style. By building upon them with accessories and statement pieces you can create numerous different outfits. The beauty of purchasing such simple pieces is its accessibility, and versatility, being readily available for everyone, and making you prepared for any event!  Value for money? Absolutely!

REMEMBER- SALES ARE NOT ALWAYS YOUR FRIEND!

The fatal mistake made by everyone is only perceiving the New Years sales as the opportunity to shop til' you drop. The discounts may seem like the diamond opportunity to get a bargain, but also awaiting in the rack of sales is the potentiality of a style disaster. Many become disillusioned by the slash in prices,  but you must consider why these garments have been radically reduced! Bad quality? Out of season? High Street chains can use the New Year sales as an opportunity to take out any unwanted trash, so it crucial your wardrobe becomes a complete bombsite of bad quality garments. 

So before purchasing the garment, ask yourself these key questions;

• Is it versatile? You're restricted by a student budget, so ensure your purchase is a long term investment, not a spontaneous one-off buy!
• Does it suit your style?
• Does it suit your body shape? 

To key to a successful wardrobe overhaul is ensuring each piece accentuates your shape, and reflects your personal style. Each individual is differentiate by their unique taste, so make sure 2014 the year for a "New Wardrobe" befitting to you.

-Jodie Momodu

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 SALE SPECIAL

LOOK GOOD FOR LESS THIS CHRISTMAS

Gift hunting on a tight student budget? Want to be the belle of the Christmas ball? With Christmas dawning upon us, the London streets are jingling with fashion finds at discount prices, making t'is the season to be jolly with your credit card.

MAYFAIR SALE

WHERE? The Rifles Club

WHEN? Wednesday 11th December

No fashion lover's Christmas will not Merry unless you hit the  Designer Sales UK autumn sample sale. Offering a wealth of fashion designers such as Valentino and Gucci at discount prices, with up to 90 percent off retail prices, this Mayfair residence is the IT destination for fashion heaven.  

With the Christmas party season fast approaching, this is the perfect opportunity to revamp your wardrobe with designer staples. So purchase a VIP ticket for one solid hour of exclusive shopping, where you will also receive a glass of bubbly and goodie bag!

QT DESIGNER SAMPLE SALE

WHERE? Shop 14, The Old Truman Brewery

WHEN? Thursday 12th December - Sunday 15th December

This fashion house has made it inexcusable for any fashion faux-pas during this Christmas season with this sale event. Obeying to the "look good for less" statement perfectly, QT is offering an array of stylish pieces sourced from the finest designers, fashion houses, and retailers from Dolce and Gabbana, to John Galliano. With the hosts promising  an 'uncluttered and easily shopped format,'along with up to 80 percent off both womenswear and menswear brands, the event is truly suited and booted with the style conscious Londoner in mind.

ANTIPODIUM SAMPLE SALE

WHERE? Unit 23, Cremer Business Centre

WHEN? Friday 13th December

Defying all Friday the 13th legends, Antipodium is hosting a sale that ensures every style savvy woman will hit the jackpot with fashion bargains galore, with prices starting from a mere £5. Developed by fashion masterminds Ashe Peacock and Geoffrey J. Finch, Antipodium is the known as  haven of cool street style, displaying an eclectic mix of statement  dresses, jackets, and knits, with each piece gaining a fashion seal of approval. The brand's international following means the sale is guaranteed to attract the eyes of many fahsionistas, eager to  scoop up the festive cheer with some bargain wardrobe staples. So come early; in this instance it is definitely not fashionable to be late! 

-Jodie Momodu

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EXODUS STORES
Contemporary African Fashion at your doorstep

Here's the latest scoop of the week for all you trendsetters looking for soulful, unique pieces at affordable prices! 

Exodus, the new 'it' online retailer, is well on its way to becoming the premier on-line destination for African Designer Labels. Based in Nigeria, Exodus Stores prides itself in promoting and providing a platform for upcoming and established African talent. 

When it comes to fashion, our identity is materialised into personal style, with each individual possessing different tastes. However, some of the world renowned Nigerian designers from Deola Sagoe to Folake Folarin-Coker have been both adored and adorned by all.  Whatever style comes to mind; they visualise, and the world will follow. Staying true to its roots, the Exodus designers showcase age old colourful tradition, translated into the many layers and complexities of remarkable designs. Despite the first glance of varied textures, different fabrics and vibrant prints, the Exodus Store designs epitomize sophisticated glamour,  and undeniably leaves its mark as a classy fashion statement.

Clothing designers (Women and Kids) include: Aima's, Alter Ego, Amédé  and Xclamations. 

Prices starting at €16.10

Vibrant Handbags, fresh off the runway available from: Design for Love  

Get your hands on some beaded, pearly and crystal jewellery sets. Exquisite Jewellery Designers include: Beampeh Nigeria, L'atelier Du Papillon Noir and  Accessories by Caroline. Prices starting at €18.77

THE ROOTS OF EXODUS

For many, "Exodus" in itself goes back to the spiritual roots of the Holy Bible, which connotes the mass movement of people to the promised land. In the eyes of its founder, Exodus represents hope, the promise of a brighter future, and the certainty that there will be a mass movement in recognition of African talent, whereby Exodus Stores will be a channel for that movement.

"Through Exodus Stores, we want to bring African Designs closer to the rest of the world." commented Nike Ogunlana, Founder of Exodus Stores. "We want to see our African talent become household names globally. We want to see someone wearing ‘Sura the Tailor’s’ beautiful well finished outfit at a dinner in Paris, on a catwalk in New York, at an award show in Los Angeles……We want to make African design labels accessible to everyone, everywhere."

-Sheshaya Surtani

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 LSE EDITORIAL EDITION

MICHAELMAS TERM 2013

"Punk meets Preppy"

Designers: Chelsea Bravo and Reece Curtis-Walwyn 

Editiorial Officer: Rania Kouros
Photographer: Divya Mehra

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THE LONDONER MEETS LSE

   

he Blogsphere: a social media world that has quickly evolved into an omniscient presence within our daily lives. From being used as a guide of "how to's" to style inspiration, blogging has undoubtedly became a staple feature on the internet. Last Monday in the LSE SU Fashion Society's first career event of the Michaelmas term, the Queen of Blogging Rosie "The Londoner" met the Fashion Society for an informal Q&A session, where she revealed all from blogging tips to an exclusive insight into her personal blogging journey and how her blog has escalated into one of the biggest lifestyle blogs, with a average monthly audience of over 3 million viewers worldwide.

Rocking the minimalist trend in a faultless black ensemble, it was immediately apparent that Rosie's career had not blogged up her brain, being  refreshingly warm and welcoming as she greeted everyone. Despite her model looks and status in the blogging sphere, she still remains a figure we can all identify and empathise with; complementing her personal, playful blog perfectly. At the start of the session it was quickly noted that The Londoner is not a native Londoner, despite the geographically inspired name: "the blog was initially a way for me to communicate to my friends and family back home when was in London." She explained how her blogging career started with humble beginnings, using a simple Blogger template. Her natural talents in blogging however are not so shocking given her previous career in a social-media orientated field, when informing society members on life before The Londoner. "I quit my job two years into blogging, because of how extensive the work had become." Her undeniable talent in taking photos that say a thousand words may be in her genes, confessing "my Mother was a photographer. I love taking photos, and capturing memories; I took over 200 yesterday in the park with Kimberley [Garner, ex Made in Chelsea star]". 

 

       
                     

As she reminisced  back to how her blogging career commenced with the notorious Slutty Brownies (which from previous tastings, I can report is as deliciously dirty as the name itself), Rosie ensured that despite her extensive fan base her blog remains true to her initial purpose of documenting her beloved memories and life experiences. The session continuously digressed back to her 'stay true to yourself' blogging philosophies. "Your life is the blog, don't let the blog be your life", she advised. Rosie emphasised how important it was to her to stay true to her (non-London based) roots, despite the pressuring nature of PRs and firms. Her refusal to publicize products for other companies that she would not personally use is admirable. Perhaps it is this dismissal to trade off authenticity for publicity that is the secret ingredient to her success. "When I don't enjoy blogging anymore is the time when I will stop".

There was a notable sense of excitement and passion in her voice as she discusses her unique experiences, validating blogging not only as a career path, but also a genuine hobby. "I can be anywhere in the world and blog: that's the great thing about blogging! I can work anywhere in the world, whether it'd be in LA or London!" 

However, when questioned about what she likes to post about most it was somewhat shocking to discover that it is not her endless dessert concoctions, or low-calorie alternatives, but documenting her travelling, in particular taking pictures of the beautiful scenery. "I like to see pictures of the location, not just endless selfies of people captioned with 'Just landed in LA!' posted on Instagram!" she elaborated. 

As her speech ended the society accompanied Rosie in eating a slice homemade cake in true London fashion, in a bake sale in aid of one of this year's RAG charities, Spires. Rosie finally revealed how she is still undecided about her future career plans. Judging from the resounding and continual success of her blog, however, we hope a change of direction is not anytime soon. We just can't get enough of The Londoner!

To view Rosie's blog, 'The Londoner' visit http://www.thelondoner.me/

- Jodie Momodu

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WHEN FAITH MEETS FASHION.

The Charity Diwali Showcase

Date- 17th November 2013

Time- 5.30 pm

Venue-Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, NW1 8EH,London

[Tickets are priced at £35(tier 1) and £28.50(tier 2) and can be purchased after 5pm at Guy’s Campus,KCL or online at www.roundhouse.org.uk]

In the spirit of Diwali, it’s that time of year to get ready for blazing fireworks, colours and the KCL Charity Diwali Showcase of course. With an resounding 2000 people involved, the show is one of the largest student organised events in the UK known for celebrating  and capturing the relgious festival of Diwali through the arts.  Every year this event never ceases to amaze its audience with an unforgettable night of fashion, music, dance and culture. 

“With this year's theme of emotions in mind, we have decided to steer away from the traditional Bollywood love story, and instead take a more edgy approach in basing this year's Eastern Catwalk on love destroyed by temptation, leading to jealousy and revenge." commented Eastern Catwalk Choreographers Sunaina Mukhi & Kavita Ravi-Shankar."Each powerful emotion will be represented by polished choreography, stunning outfits; befittingly selected from leading Asian clothing boutiques, together with song choices that everybody knows and loves! This, alongside the incorporation of dance and live music, will ensure that this year's Eastern Catwalk is nothing short of spectacular!”

  

What’s more, charity is the beating heart of the Diwali show that binds together all students involved. The organising committee aims to raise as much awareness as possible for its charities; whether it be organising bake sales or student sponsored walks. The dedicated committee works tirelessly in its goal to fight against poverty and help the less fortunate by driving a sustainable movement towards change. This year, the KCL Charity Diwali Showcase will be supporting Homes of Hope, The Sharma Foundation and Evelina Children’s Hospital. 

The night will be hosted by witty British born Indian Actor Ameet Chana (AKA Adi Ferreira of East Enders) and will feature numerous musical and dance acts ranging from Bhangra to hip hop to get you on your feet. That said, the organising committee would not be doing its audience justice without a glam fashion show right? This year, the stage will light up as the catwalk reaches unparalleled heights featuring both fusion and Eastern styles. All glamorous Eastern runway looks are designed and sponsored by: The Model's Portal, Geeta Arts, Parul, My Trousseau, Raishma, Fusion, Kyles and Lubna Rafiq.

-Sheshaya Surtani

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TAILORING REDEFINED
Transitioning Tailoring from catwalk to High Street

The current trend rocking the recent spring ready-to-wear collections has featured a myriad of interpretations of pairing structured fabrics with second-skin unveilings. Think tailored meets sensuality, adding a whole new dimension to tailored clothing.

Despite designers differing in colour  within their individual collections, this new tailored trend remains pervasive enough to be translated into commercial reality.

  
 

Stella McCartney

Tadashi Shoji

  Stella McCartney in particular features bold monotone looks while lifting the flatness of the outfits by drawing our attention to partial birthday suits. Her ability to keep the trend of lace alive by pairing it with structured pants (lace on lace) and body-conforming dresses adds a timeless femininity, whilst maintaining its masculine-inspired roots.

  Although such a trend may seem too majestic to pull off at LSE, here are some adaptable looks that takes the underlying idea of playing sheer against opaque into the daytime, certifying your style status.

  

-Leo Lau

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The Rentez-Vous Initiative

 The IT place for the fashion addicted. 

Bored of your wardrobe? running low on the budget? Need a new garment to cheer you up? Or do you simply just feel like socializing with designers, photographers, artist?  Then attend the Rentez-Vous at The Wellington Club! Every month Rentez-Vous organises events all around London (& Paris), only at the most intriguing, cool and avant-guarde  of places! 

A haven for the style conscious with a limited budged, the Rentez-Vous Initiative is Fiona’s innovative fashion business where one (individual or designer) rents out clothes for a period of three weeks at a lower price!  The individual who rents out the clothes is responsible for the condition of the item,and must take it to a dry cleaner’s before returning it back (dry cleaning services suggested - at lower costs too).

Encompassing anything and everything a good night needs from mingling with the cool crowd, trying on hundreds of different funky clothes, drinking cocktails, being bubbly, to having your make up and hair done by professionals, undoubtedly defines the event as an unforgettable experience for all the right reasons. Both fun and creative whilst embracing fashion at affordable prices with a touch of boudoir to add a touch of sass to the proceedings… what is there not to love ?! 

Divulging in the event too were an array of up and coming designers known for redefining simple fashion statements with a modern 21st century flick. There I found my beloved designer Chelsea Bravo with her new mens collection, that ticked both the originality and versatility factor; I would not at all mind wearing -even if it’s for guys!!!! (www.chelseabravo.com)

Also new designer Reece Curtis-Walwyn also attending the proceeding there renting out her incredible womens detailed, yet minimalist collection. ( www.reececw.com ). Also embodying the minimalist look with a collection adorning a monochromatic palette of black and white, Marangoni’s graduate Katarina Pahlson-Moller also impressed (www.katarinapahlson.com )

Entry prices for such event vary and might depend on participation - i.e. £10 for entry with a drink and the whole make-up/hairdo package, or if you are a renter you would probably join in for free!

For more on Rentez-Vous: 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rentez-Vous/346563802100709?fref=ts

Stay posted for more of their events; the next one will be hosted the 26th of November (note it down on your LSE calender!)  

Review scale: 4.5/5

-Rania Kourus.

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TAILORED 101

The guide to tailoring

With everyone starting to think about next summer’s internships already, now seems like the perfect time to start thinking about investing in some great tailoring to prepare for those all-important interviews. First impressions are everything in a job interview, so it is imperative that your outfit show that you mean business. Think sleek, tailored, and tidy. Its an open secret that one cannot simply think the part; they must look the part too. So rail up your wardrobe with tailored essentials like a crisp white shirt, and a trusty black blazer, to ensure your professional prospects aren't derailed itself!

Whatever your student budget, the you can easily purchase these tailored essentials. The High Street has so much to offer, with fashion retailers from H&M to Reiss all drawing on the tailored trends spotted on the AW13 shows.

Zara Dress: £39.99

Reiss Shirt: £79

         

Lessons can be learned from the catwalk, and translated into our everyday style even for those who enter the most conservative of industries. Whenever stuck with the "What to Wear" syndrome remember these three simple tips to get you started, which will certify your work wardrobe with a high fashion statement:

1) A crisp, white shirt will never go out of style

2) Great accessories will be your saviour and;

3) Work wear doesn’t need to be boring - play around with prints and colours. Opt for either clean primary colours, or neutral tones to maintain the professional feel.

PS. All that tailoring need not be saved for the boardroom – play around with a white shirt and jeans or with a sharp blazer over a camisole dress for a chic A/W look!

-Hannah Thompson

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Designer Feature of the Week Zandra Rhodes

WHO IS SHE?

Known for her signature pink bob, eccentric persona and glam lifestyle, Zandra Rhodes has made an immense mark on the international world of fashion since the late 1960s. Having majored in printed textile design, at the early stages of her career, Zandra’s textile designs were perceived as “too outrageous” by the traditionalist UK manufacturers of the time. In search of her first big break, she took her collection to the streets of New York, where her talents were discovered by a stylist, and soon featured in the pages of American Vogue. Since then, Zandra hasn't looked back, designing for style supremes, ranging from Freddie Mercury in ‘Queen’ to Princess Diana of Wales. Now, her glamorous designs and vintage pieces are adorned by fashion icons Sarah Jessica Parker in “Sex and the City”, Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, solidifying Rhodes' status as a trend initiator, and style supreme.

HER WORK: The “Unseen” Collection Unveiled:
In 2003 Zandra founded the London Fashion and Textile Museum located in the heart of Europe's fashion capital, London. Commemorating the 10 year anniversary since the museums opening, her latest public exhibition titled: “Zandra Rhodes: Unseen” was held from 12 July - 31 August 2013. The exhibition shines a well-deserved light on her phenomenal 50-year career, and evolution as a creative artist.Featuring a range of original sketches, spectacular textiles, and ravishing dresses, the exhibition gives the public a rare opportunity to enter Rhode's private creative sphere, into the studio and archives of one of the world’s most distinctive designers that re-defined fashion.

SUCCESS AND INFLUENCES:
Known in the style sphere as “Princess of Pink”, Rhodes is now defined as the first designer to convert street punk into high fashion through her “Conceptual Chic” collection. Her ravishing “India Revisited” collection epitomises the glamour of Indian culture and intricate hand beaded techniques. Evidently, Rhodes'  vivid understanding of print allows her to experiment with the form of the garments, with actual dresses being sructured  by the pattern itself. Zandra’s dramatic use of colour, unique use of daring prints and fiercely feminine patterns has given her garments a timeless quality that makes them unmistakably a Rhodes creation.

 For any fashionistas  interested in textile design, or simply want to know more about Zandra: look out for the bright pink and orange museum on Bermondsey Street!

-Sheshaya Surtani

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THE ELGD

The EDGY GREY DRESS (THE EGLD)

The new LBD in town.

After the graphic and notorious LBD (Little Black Dress), initiated by the iconic Coco Chanel, and so much adored and promoted by Audrey Hepburn it is inevitable that the fashion empire reinvent the staple classic with the ELGD otherwise known as the Edgy Little Grey Dress! An new abbreviation to the fashion wardrobe, its neither too naughty, nor promiscuous as the LBD, yet its quirky modern structure gives it the fashion seal of approval as the latest new obsession.

Lanvin is one of the brands who greatly supports this new emergence of “grey" adding to it a bit of the spin of the trendy “pret-a-porter” checked/tartan pattern and shaping it to perfection.

Nonetheless, Wandering Minds’ – a company traveling around the world discovering up-and-coming young designers in the world’s most fashionable cities and bring them back straight at you- made a 60’s cut discovery that is also intriguing (to say the least). The ELGD is a creation by Outstanding Ordinary, a Seoul based brand that specializes in creating perfect basics with a twist

This makes our grey garment a definite basic/must have item for this winter, at a more affordable price (£49.00). 

http://ourwanderingminds.com/collections/dresses/products/edgy-little-grey-dress-1

-Rania Kouros

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FASHION TIMETABLE

Slot these events into YOUR fashion calender!

Upcoming events at the London Fashion and Textile Museum

Event: Bermondsey Street Fashion Heritage Walks

Local historian Stephen Humphrey guides a heritage walk around Bermondsey Street, celebrating the history of London's fashion and textile industry in the area. Stephen Humphrey guides a heritage walk around Bermondsey Street, celebrating the history of London's fashion and textile industry in the area. 

Dates:  2nd and 16th November 2013

Time: 12 Noon onward

Event:In design For Fashion and Textiles: Course

Giving you perfect control over design and typography, this course teaches you how Adobe InDesign is used in the fashion and textile industry. 

Dates:  9th,16th and 23rd November 2013

Time: 10.30 am-4 pm

Event: Photoshop for Fashion Designers: Course

This course explores the creative process and ways to design fashion and apparel using Photoshop.

Dates:  12th, 13th and 14th November 2013

Time: 10.30 am-4 pm

Repeat Patterns With Illustrator: Course

This course will teach you effective and interesting ways to create block, brick, drop and sateen repeat patterns using Adobe Illustrator.

Dates:

20TH NOV, 27TH NOV, 4TH DEC, 11TH DEC AND 18TH DEC 2013 - 6PM-9PM

Couture Study Day: Workshop

Learn about the fascinating world of couture

Dates: Saturday 23rd November 2013 - 10.30AM-4.30PM

-Sheshaya Surtani
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Fashion Flashback:

 London Fashion Festival 

The Low Down on #FashionFest13. 

WHAT IS IT?

Devised by CreateVoice, the V&A’s young people’s collective the event presents the opportunity for potential wannabee fashionistas to  participate in a variety of free workshops, and master classes by fashion royalty, gaining an in-depth understanding of all aspects of fashion industry, and a development of creative skills .

WHEN? Saturday 19th October

WHERE? Victoria and Albert Museum

MASTERCLASSES:

In Conversation with Henry Holland

 An insight Henry Holland's professional journey, from how he entered the fashion scene, to founding his own clothes label. The conversation includes topics such as his recent collaborations with brands such as Levi Strauss and Debenhams, and personal experience of venturing into the Entertainment industry as a  co-presenter with former model Alexa Chung. The talk ends on a final note with an exclusive insight on his latest collections, and future plans, with Scarlett Kilcooley, Junior Editor of Vogue UK.

In Conversation with Maria Grachvogel

 Interviewed by Scarlett Kilcooley, Junior Editor of Vogue UK, we flash back to Maria Grachvogel's personal journey during the 2013 autumn London Fashion Week. Discovering her natural abilities at a young age, whereby she created her first collection at the age of 14 and founded her own company at 21, her label is now the secret to many A Lister's faultless outfits adorned by the world’s most stylish, including Angelina Jolie, Marie Helvin and Yasmin Le Bon.

Careers in the Fashion Industry

The British Fashion Council gives an overview of it’s work and the variety of job opportunities the fashion world offers, including advice on internships. 

ASOS: Fashion Marketing and Journalism

A proffessional insight on how to step onto the fashion media platform, from designing and setting up your own online selling site, to writing fashion features in magazines and newspapers or online.

Marketing and Trend Predicting

 Katie Greenyer ( Creative Director of Pentland Brands plc. which includes JD Sports Fashion plc., Ted Baker Footwear, and Speedo) gives an exclusive insight on her demanding role, what it entails, and her recent work as a Graduate Fashion Week Mentor to future upcoming designers.

PRESENTATIONS

-Charlotte Lucy Barry, named as one of the best fashion graduates of 2011 (Vogue UK) 

-Alexis Housden (winner of Collection of the Year Award 2013) London College of Fashion. 

-Young people from FAD (Fashion Awareness Direct) and the Kids Company.

-Sheshaya Surtani
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FASHION 101: RANIA KOUROS

With the fashion empire, and chicest fashionistas residing at Somerset House for the capital's biggest style extravaganza known as London Fashion Week, dressing impeccably for it is a daunting prospect. Despite the odds, LSESUFashion's newly appointed Editorial Fashion Office Rania Kouros took the fashion scene by storm, being spotted by her eclectic style by notorious Australian magazine 'Missy Confidential'. With her passion for fashion being internationally recognised, Jodie Momodu interviews this style-savvy student about the origins of her fashion love,her take on London Fashion Week, and predictions on the next 'it' designer.

Fur: Graham & Spencer

T-Shirt: Urban Outfitters

Blazer: Michael Kors

Trousers: Zara

Shoes: Marc by Marc Jacobs

Bag: Lana del Rey, Mulberry

Glasses: Topshop

Rania, tell everyone your background in fashion! 

When I was just 3 or 4 my Mum got me an amazing pair of swede Dolce & Gabbana cowboy boots with these little amazing tassels on the side, and that was when it all began! I had always been a socialite fashionista due to my family background in the country ,and was always invited in those social events, featured in magazines etc. However, my real passion arose as soon as I turned 18 and got a part time job at MUST (Greek Fashion) magazine, where I was responsible for the street fashion section. During my time there I got to meet an array of cool designers, became gradually influenced by stylists, and interacted with PR-ists and artists, anyone artistic!

As soon as I came to London though, my enthusiasm around the fashion field got augmented due to the city´s intense vibe. After my dad´s encouragement actually, I launched my own blog in 2012 and from then on everything followed a sequence... I became part of the London Fashion Bloggers project of Diana Kakkar´s company, and was contributing articles and reviews for their blog. I collaborated with the BuyMyWardrobe pre-loved fashion initiative, and was also part of their promotional photoshoot (last April). I was also lucky to meet through networking, Fiona, owner of French and UK based start up company Rentez-Vous, who invited me to rent out my clothes as part of the company´s concept. 

In the meantime my fashion show addiction had begun... whether it was in Cyprus, Greece, the Netherlands, France or the UK ... whether it was VIP front seats of back seats... I was there, reporting, writing, and was fortunate to always get hold of invitations! 

As well as these, I have been a freelance stylist and fashion advisor. I have created a quite solid network of designers, entrepreneurs  artists, PR'ists and fashionistas...ready to assist, advice or influence me at any given time. The fashion realm has truly became my second home.

What ignited your passion for fashion? 

My passion for fashion derives from simply being a spoiled child I guess, and probably because I have a creative and crazy mom who acted as my mentor throughout! Nonetheless, growing up it is fashion´s social power over people that fascinated me! The creativity diffused in people´s outfits as well as the journalistric drive that urged me to report on all these stimuli of mine. This probably explains my development in the blogging world too.

What was your main highlight of LFW, except for being spotted by Missy Confidential!?

The main highlight of the LFW to me was actually the street style! People gathering to such events have a heightened and bold sense of fashion. They are the ones who truly inspire and constitute fashion. Designers of course materialise the creativity but it is such people who take it to the extremes and portay its true essence in the most artistic ways. So yes...the outfit inspiration was the highlight

Which designer stood out from the fashion crowd?

Zoe Jordan, an upcoming designer, was in fact one of my favourite picks. She has a very playful and at the same time minimal style, which I find intriguing. 

 What were the key trends you spotted at LFW? 

 The key trends for this season would be;

a. Grudge- tartan patterns combined with those beloved biker boots (don´t forget the badass attitude) 

b. The Pink coat - think big, bold minimal and PINK yes PINK

c. Nature - fur is another trend but keep it in earth colours like brown, khaki, and olive green!

- Jodie Momodu

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FASHION EVENTS DOCUMENTED:
The Miles Aldirdge Exhibition

WHO IS HE?

A pop video director turned photographer, Miles Aldridge has captured a unique take on fashion since the mid-90s. Having graduated with a degree in illustration from Central St. Martins, he credits luck as the reason why he became a fashion photographer. British Vogue took no time to spot his talent, and from there on his career skyrocketed. Now based in New York, Aldridge has had work published in top publications across the globe from Italian Vogue to the New York Times. Aldridge is heavily influenced by his father Alan Aldridge, fashion photographer Richard Avedon and film directors; Alfred Hitchcock and David Lynch.

Miles Aldridge: I Only Want You To Love Me is the largest retrospective exhibition of the acclaimed photographer’s work to date. The high glamour photo fiction exhibition was held at the Somerset House from 10th July -29th September 2013. Featuring 55 large scale prints that form an overview of Aldridge’s multi-coloured universe, it was also accompanied by drawings and polaroids. The exhibition is testament to the fact that Aldridge’s love of drawing has always prevailed - sketches were always central to his process.

At the offset, it appears Aldridge has two obsessions: women, and his love for colour. Highly saturated clashing shades, overly- airbrushed models and cinematic compositions give Aldridges’ photography an eerily glamorous feel. By concentrating on unique scenes with psychologically complex characters in surreal settings, Aldridge offers an intriguing mixture of sensuality and melancholy, inviting the viewer to uncover a deeper layer of meaning behind his work.

A woman resembling Elizabeth Taylor sits in a red bed with green satin sheets, a bowl of half eaten grapefruit on her lap and appears to be screaming, arms flung in the air. In another, a woman clad in yellow sits on a checked tiled floor, seemingly ready to pounce, whilst glaring into the distance over broken plates and scattered food. His loud, conceptual photos featuring expressionless women all tell a similar story; both disturbing, yet beautiful. These are women at the edge of reason. The  verge of breaking point. Every sense and emotion is magnified through Aldridge’s bright, clashing colours which screams out loud, so the models don't have to.

In its final weeks, I Only Want You to Love Me became a behind the scenes backdrop to the marquees and catwalks erected for London Fashion Week. For those of you who want to enter Miles Aldridge’s Technicolor fantasy world, his recently released book “I Only Want You To Love Me” (Rizzoli, New York), is now available. For further information visit: www.milesaldridge.com.

-Sheshaya Surtani

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THE MINIMALIST LOOK

Sleek, stylish and super versatile: meet the trend accessible to all.

With each new season brings with it an adherence of fashion rules, and it trends,  which won't be seizing to stop any time soon. The London fashion scene is effervescent right now with eclectic styles, quirky prints and, showcasing an array of textures, prints, and designs  yet the High Street retailers are gravitating back to basics, by sporting the new minimalist trend of fresh, simple colours, and clean cutting designs.

The Minimalist look. The least time-consuming, financially efficient trend known to style mankind, where less is definitely more.  With its beauty lying in the simplicity of it, its an easy way out of suffering the typical fashion dilemma of "What to wear", that etches upon the minds of many.

The cleanness of the primary colours make a bold fashion statement in itself, which makes it unsurprising that the look is adorned on everyone from the Celine Catwalk to style bloggers known for her mix and match eclectic style.

                     

The simplicity of this trend ensures it ticks the versatility factor, with each fashion piece beautifully complementing the other whether it be a simple white tee, leather pants, or cashmere jumper. Undeniably faultless, and easy to recreate, it is the accessibility of the trend that gives it its fashion stamp of approval. With our timetables swamped with an abundance of lectures, and essay deadlines, this is the only gratifying opportunity to be lazy by adorning a simplistic outfit with minimal accessories! Sticking to a strict palette of creams, greys, blacks and whites is key to recreating this effortless look, and an easy way to gain some style points.

 The fashion empire has truly hit the jackpot with this classic trend, with its versatility making it accessible to all! Not wanting to blend in with the crowd? Give your new minimalist look a stamp of your identity with a bold accessory piece. Worried bout how to costs of a new Winter wardrobe? This effortless trend is a sure proof way to transcend your look from day to night, and all other seasons by layering or dressing down. This trend truly embodies the fashion commandment "Look Good for Less". So jump on the band wagon!

- Jodie Momodu

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STUDENT DISCOUNT SPECIAL

The beginning of a new academic year, and a dreaded Winter season lingering upon us provides the ultimate excuse to have a complete wardrobe overhaul, especially in London, the city renowned for its hot innovative fashion.

And now you can!

The fashion Gods have answered our prayers, with a number of high street chains offering a multitude of fab student discounts so you can shop to your heart's consent. 

• NEW LOOK: Already sporting a ridiculous sale of up to 50% off numerous lines, they have now added an extra 10% off online for all students, and a 20% discount if you simply register online. Hurry though: this 20% discount offer runs midnight Saturday!
• TOPSHOP: UNIDAYS is providing all students with a 20% off ALL products for a limited time only (Ends Saturday 5th Oct)
• JACK WILLIS: The brand notorious for its "fabulously British"  style is offering a whopping 20% off for all students! 
• H&M : Enter the code 0758 at checkout to receive a 10% discount on all products online!
• ASOS: UK's beloved online chain is offering 10% discount exclusively to all students, certifying it as a student-worthy fashion brand.
• BURTON: Until this Sunday, these menswear brand is offering a 25% discount off all products online AND in store! If ordering online, just simply type in STYLEWEEK at checkout.

A line of "up and coming" online fashion brands are also providing us with a whirlwind of discounts at amazing prices! Check out these brands to get Autumn trends for less!

• LAMODA: Speciialising in expensive looking tote bags at affordable prices,  the accessory brand is offering 20% off! Just simply type in the code LAMODA20 at checkout
• YUMI: Epitomising Camden style with its quirky vintage-inspired pieces, this edgy fashion brand is giving a 15% online discount! Use the code YUMILOVESREVEAL20 at checkout.
• HEELBERRY: Offering on-trend, designer inspired shoes at unbeatable prices, the shoe brand is giving a 20% discount on all shoes online; just add REVEAL20 at checkout.

Now is the chance to shop til' you drop!

-Jodie Momodu