Friday, October 21, 2011

Cover Denmark







xx
images from Cover Denmark

My latest Notting Hill Gate; NARCISS


NARCISS launches its flagship boutique

NOTTING HILL GATE OCTOBER 20, 2011 12:53
Luxury ready-to-wear label, NARCISS has just launched its flagship boutique and showroom in the heart of London’s Notting Hill. The brand name derives from the ancient Greek myth of Narcissus – a young, beautiful man who fell in love with his own reflection in the water. Not realising that this vision was a mere image, he was unable to leave the beauty of his reflection and died. 
NARCISS Notting Hill boutique
In tribute to this myth, the NARCISS collection includes a wide range of elegant dresses that encourage women to embrace their femininity and enjoy their beauty. 
 
NARCISS Westbourne Grove Notting Hill
Minimally decorated while paying close attention to details, the shop is attractively organized which makes browsing a breeze.  The AW11 collection is filled with interesting fabrics in creams and burgundies sweet enough to drink. 
 
Using only the finest natural fabrics and manufactured with precision tailoring, the NARCISS collection symbolises sophistication and combines femininity with a modern edge. Dresses are the primary focus of each collection, from fabulous evening gowns to beautiful dresses fit to take you from day to night. Each garment is designed to be a unique investment piece, with a nod to the ‘trend du jour’ yet made to blend in effortlessly with your existing wardrobe.
 
NARCISS was recently named “Designer Of The Year” at the Latvian Style and Fashion Award 2010.  Now, shoppers are anxiously waiting for the SS12 collection to make way.  
 
The collection is now available in London from the new flagship boutique on 185 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill. 
 
Courtney Beard
 

what's she wearing

Nation Ltd top
Alexander Wang skirt 
xx 
image via who what wear

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

My Latest KingsRoad; Lux Wedding Show


The Luxury Wedding Show London

KINGSROAD.CO.UK OCTOBER 18, 2011 13:05
The single most important event of a girl’s life and a father’s worst nightmare regarding his bank account; the big day. From 22 - 23 October, the Saatchi Gallery will be filled with a wedding’s every detail. If nuptials are in the making or you just know Mr. Right will be entering your life any moment now, this event cannot be missed.
For centuries happy couples along with their families and friends have joined together to celebrate their happiness, and thanks to Queen Victoria, most traditional brides choose to wear a white gown that sets them apart from their guests (and most definitely their bridesmaids).  
 
However, the dress is only one of the many purchases. Tremendous amounts of planning can be required, and luckily, there is an answer. The Luxury Wedding Show London covers every aspect from photographers to honeymoon destinations, so no Jennifer Lopez circa 2001 (“The Wedding Planner”) needed.
 
Wedding experts from some of London’s most famous bridal and bespoke names will be on hand offering information and personal advice on how to (re)create the wedding of the century for attendants. Tragically, April’s festivities may outshine any others for the next century, but a girl can still dream.   
 
Choosing the perfect dress will come easy after watching the catwalk shows sponsored by Conde Nast Brides with collections from Vivienne Westwood (pictured), Monique Lhullier, Vera Wang Marchesa,Temperley London and Carolina Herrera among many others.
 
Vivienne Westwood Couture Bridal Collection
On top of amazing dress selections, makeup and hair ideas will be of plenty over the weekend. Flower selections, invitations, cake decor, catering and music will also be focused on throughout the show.  All things matrimonial and beautiful will be available for the perfect wedding masterpiece.  
 
Even if there’s not a £20 million budget accessible, attending the Luxury Wedding Show will definitely set brides to be in the right direction with invaluable inspiration and contacts fit for a princess.  
 
Tickets are priced at £50 and includes a premium goody bag upon entry. 
 
Opening Times: 10am - 6pm Saturday and Sunday
 
Courtney Beard
 

fake it; Miu Miu boots

After reading my TopShop Edits weekly email, I thought their glitter boots closely resembled the Miu Miu pair from Net-A-Porter that have been in every single magazine this autumn.  I almost prefer the darker suede?  But, they aren't Miu Miu!
MIU MIU
glitter and suede peep-toe ankle boots
$890

ASTRID
 suede ankle boots
$160

  • xx
images from net-a-poter, topshop

Monday, October 17, 2011

RZoe's Office Style

Who What Wear did an amazing interview and shoot inside Rachel Zoe's LA's office and showroom.  Yes, we die.








Explain your job in one sentence please:
I am a fashion stylist helping not only my red carpet clients, but women everywhere, look and feel their most beautiful.
What is a typical workday like for you?
I don’t know that I have ever had a typical workday, thank god or I’d get bored. My job keeps me on my toes where one day I am sorting through fabric swatches and vintage archives designing my line, the next I am in editorial meetings for The Zoe Report. Of course, then there is dressing clients for events, which will always be my favorite part of what I do. Add spending time with my son Skyler into the mix—I am fortunate enough to always have him right nearby—and I feel like the luckiest women in the world.
What is your go-to work outfit?
It almost always starts with a great structured jacket, then I build my outfit around it, usually by adding a soft layering tee and a crisp pair of wide-leg trousers or jeans. Obviously, the finishing touch is going to be a crazy tall pair of heels and an overload of accessories.
How did you get this job?Did you always know you wanted it?
I think the job kind of created itself. I was glamour obsessed from the womb, so it was inevitable that I would work in fashion.
What did you do before you started your company/freelance career?
I was on staff as a stylist at YM magazine…before that I was a hostess at a restaurant, where I met Rodger. ☺
What’s the best part of your job? The worst?
The best part of my job is that I am truly living out my dream while staying consistently challenged. Also, I get to work alongside an incredible team and am constantly meeting the most amazing, talented individuals. The worst part is that there are no set hours, so it is hard for me to ever stop and take a break.
How important is having a fashionable/chic work area?
It is everything. I am a very visual person so I need to feel inspired and comforted by whatever space I am in…if I see clutter, I get distracted.
Do you email or use the phone more?
Our whole company definitely operates on e-mail—it is more efficient. However, one can never underestimate the power of a phone call.
What surprises you the most about your career?
I think I surprise myself by constantly discovering new passions and interests, and setting new goals. Also, I am constantly surprised, challenged and inspired by working with my husband and our ever-growing team.
What changes do you make to your look if you have to go to dinner or drinks immediately after work?
Easy! Add a bold red lip and mascara, swap out my daybag for a sleek clutch and possibly climb into even higher heels.
What items do you think every working girl should own (clothing and accessories)?
A tuxedo jacket and trouser pants, a bow-tie blouse, a chic work bag, classic pumps, and a statement watch.
Do you use a Mac or a PC? (or Blackberry or iPhone?)
Is that a question? Mac girl all the way. For a phone, I rely on a Blackberry because I find it easier to send e-mails on, but I also love my iPad.
What do you listen to when you’re working?
The Beatles, U2, The Grateful Dead, Madonna
What are you wearing today?
The Hutton tuxedo pant from my fall collection – ask anybody I seriously live in these! The Connie top from my resort line, it’s a lighter spin on the Natalie from fall – the perfect layering piece. A vintage Chanel blazer – I bought this at Decades Inc probably 5 years ago and I’m still completely obsessed! Oh and Givenchy boots.
What do you try to teach your interns/assistants?
To work hard, trust their gut, and believe anything is possible.
Have you fulfilled your career goal or do you still have more to achieve?
I have fulfilled many career goals, the most crucial one being designing a line, but that truly just begins a whole new set of aspirations—so I will always have more to achieve. I prefer it that way, more is more!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to emulate your career path?
Intern wherever you can, work harder than anyone else and handle criticism well. Take each job very seriously, show up early and stay late, smile and appreciate every opportunity. If you are ever discouraged, remind yourself of all the reasons why you love what you do, and most importantly, have fun. Fashion is fun!
xx
images and interview via Who What Wear