Tuesday, 11 September 2012

3.1 Phillip Lim Spring Summer 2013: From '70s Grunge To '90s Punk

3.1 Phillip Lim Spring Summer 2013, New York Fashion Week, Relax t-shirtPhillip Lim cited the Dada-ist art movement of the 1920s as a jumping off point for his creative process this season; but he also mentioned how the Dada-ists had influenced the rock musicians of the '70's and '90s in their use of techniques that 'manipulated and reassembled' sounds and lyrics.

Whilst designers referencing obscure early 20th Century art movements as influences may be a wee too esoteric, the latter statement did make a lot of sense as his multi-media-mash-up which referenced both '70s Punk and '90s Grunge, hit the runway.

And although Lim appeared to be quite literally referencing past sub-cultures throughout the collection, there was plenty of 21st Century polish to each and every look that will most certainly create covetable pieces for the chic, contemporary rock chick.

So Mr. Lim's initial starting point may have been Dada-ism, but his crafty re-inventions of latter day classics turned out to be much less 'Arty' and far more 'Party'.

Slouchy pants came with their own built-in 'shirt tied at the waist' motif, whilst biker jackets came in a myriad fabrications that made leather just seem so last decade, let alone last century. Even Frankies 'RELAX' T-shirts made an appearance in a contemporary new incarnation. And just in time for the anniversary of September 11th, the iconic 'I heart NY' Tee was given a multicultural spin that made us yearn for the past whilst keeping our minds (and hearts for that matter) laser focused on the future.

Jennifer Lawrence Wears a Gold Prabal Gurung Gown For The Hunger Games Premiere

Jennifer Lawrence Wears a Gold Prabal Gurung Gown For The Hunger Games PremiereThe Hunger Games fun has begun! In Los Angeles last night, the world premiere for the film that's already been hailed as the new Twilight took place and leading lady Jennifer Lawrence stole the spotlight. The 21-year-old chose a glistening metallic gold gown for the first red carpet round and guess what? It's hot off Prabal Gurung's Autumn Winter 2012 catwalk. Finger? Pulse?
In a Rooney Mara stylee, Jen showcased her toned bod thanks to saucy cut-outs at the side of the dress as well as a skin-flashing back. Talk about a golden goddess! The US designer seemed pretty impressed with the result too. 'Beyond ecstatic,' Prabal tweeted. 'How amazing does @LawrenceJenn look in our Fall12 Gold Lame gown at the premier of The Hunger Games.' We say VERY amazing, Mr G.

Jennifer Lawrence Wears a Gold Prabal Gurung Gown For The Hunger Games Premiere
Miley Cyrus also took to the black carpet last night in support of her boyfriend and the film's man candy, Liam Hemsworth. The star went for a err, glam gypsy vibe courtesy of a black mesh beaded bustier that made the most of her teeny tum, worn with a high-waisted organza skirt, both from Emilio Pucci's Spring Summer 2012 collection. She topped off the sultry ensemble with a pair of sky-high heels. 'They’re my highest ones,' she said. 'They’re my Liam shoes.’ Bless.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth Banks brought a splash of colour to the proceedings with another dollop of Versace. She sizzled in a bright orange structured one-shoulder mini dress from Atelier Versace's Spring Summer 2012 collection. ‘I was inspired by Effie Trinket, the character I play in the movie,’ the actress explained. A pair of nude Jimmy Choo ‘Biel’ wedges and a gold clutch polished off the look. What a hottie.
One of our favourite newbies on the style circuit, Shailene Woodley, also put in an appearance, but failed to impress in a black floral maxi dress from Honor's Autumn Winter 2012 catwalk. It's just a tad saggy, no?
Other notable style swishes came courtesy of Leslie Mann, who mixed up the frock-a-thon with a black Monique Lhuillier Autumn Winter 2012 jumpsuit - the sheer yoke and leather waistband provided just the right amount of sexy while those gold shoulder embellishments kept things funky. And Kelly Osbourne went androgynous in a sharp suit made girlie by her lavender hair and a pretty pink corsage.
Scroll through the gallery above and let us know what you make of the event's Best Dressers...

Kate Middleton Wears Prabal Gurung For Welcome Ceremony in Singapore

Kate Middleton Wears Prabal Gurung For Welcome Ceremony in SingaporeIt's barely lunchtime here in Blighty and the Duchess of Cambridge is already onto outfit number two as she continues her tour of Asia. Kate has just arrived at the welcome ceremony in Singapore with hubby Prince William and she looks utterly resplendent in a colourful printed frock. Is this another Packham number? A touch of McQueen perhaps? Nope, Kate's brilliantly bright frock is by super-cool designer Prabal Gurung. Who'da thunk she'd go for such an on-trend, edgy New York-based designer?
Well, it all makes perfect sense considering Mr Gurung originates from Singapore. Presumably the Duchess has chosen the frock as a sign of respect to the President of Singapore, who she's meeting today. Who could forget, after all, the furore that Michelle Obama caused when she arrived at the Chinese State Dinner wearing a gown by - gasp - a British designer.

Marchesa designed Blake Lively's wedding dress


Blake Lively wearing a Marchesa creation at the 2011 BAFTAs. Photo: Rex
Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig, the British design duo behind Marchesa, have confirmed that they designed Blake Lively's wedding gown, as well as those of her bridal party.

In a statement the label described Lively's dress as having a "hand-draped silk tulle bodice adorned with custom crystal and rose gold embroidery", adding that each member of her bridal party wore a "unique custom blush silk chiffon Marchesa gown with crystal embroidered detail".
US publication Martha Stewart Weddings , who helped organise the nuptials, also confirmed that the actress wore custom-made shoes by Christian Louboutin.
It was assumed that the Gossip Girl actress had chosen either Chanel or Gucci to create her gown as she has acted as ambassador for both fashion houses. However, she has chosen Marchesa for numerous red carpet appearances in the past and is said to be friends with the designers.

Blake with Marchesa designers Keren Craig and Georgina Chapman. Photo: Rex
The groom, Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds, and his groomsmen wore suits designed by Burberry's creative director Christopher Bailey, with whom he is friends.
The publication also said that the newly-weds exchanged rings by famed jewellery designer Lorraine Schwartz.
"Ryan and Blake opted for an intimate, personalized party, gathering their immediate and extended family at a rustic barn in South Carolina," the magazine posted on their website yesterday. "From the heartfelt ceremony to the fun-filled carnival hour and elegant reception, it was a truly enchanting celebration."
The couple, who have been in a relationship for a year, had managed to keep both their engagement and wedding a secret.
Photographs and further details of the wedding will appear in the winter issue of Martha Stewart Weddings , which will hit news-stands in December.