THE CLOSET DETOX

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

Shopping Guide XMas

 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

The Rise of African Retail

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

Editorial

 LSE EDITORIAL EDITION

MICHAELMAS TERM 2013

"Punk meets Preppy"

Designers: Chelsea Bravo and Reece Curtis-Walwyn 

Editiorial Officer: Rania Kouros
Photographer: Divya Mehra

THE LONDONER MEETS LSE

THE LONDONER MEETS LSE

   

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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

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

tailoring redefined

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 themes 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 feminity, 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, certifiying your style status.

  

-Leo Lau

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.

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

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