Fashion Foie Gras & Cocosa

One of my favourite blogs, ‘Fashion Foie Gras’, recently announced their collaboration with online fashion retailer Cocosa.

Cocosa present the customer with an agglomeration of luxury brands and pieces in time-limited sales.

The website have teamed with Emily Johnson, of Fashion Foie Gras to offer her readers the chance to win a beautiful lace dress by Issa. The piece retails for £1,100 and fans of FFG merely have to attempt to style the dress and offer a suggestion as to where one might wear such an ensemble.

The above image is my attempt at styling this classic gown.

I adore wearing pieces which incorporate the dainty and ladylike fabric that is lace. However, the perfect antithesis for such an ensemble is toughened and leather accessories.

For this look, I have pulled pieces from the collections of A-Wear, Christian Louboutin and All Saints. Collectively, these pieces imbue an image of resilience with a softer core, enabling the mannequin to emit confidence, charisma, style and grace!

The restricted palette of mustard and black thrust the Issa gown into the spotlight, permitting the darker tones the role of accentuating  the simple and chic nature of the dress.

This ensemble would be perfect to exhibit at any function or event where the wearer wishes to feel comfortable and promote envy amongst those around her. Personal style bloggers would be agog to see such a dress paraded down their local cobblestones!

How would you style such a piece? Where would you suggest wearing it to?

MTV Video Music Awards 2011

The MTV Video Music Awards first began as a ceremony to rival the notorious Grammy Awards. The VMA’s first launched in 1984 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Dan Aykroyd and Bette Midler were the evening’s hosts.

This year, the awards were held in the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles. Steven Friedman MTV President, publicly stated the company’s delight in returning to the City of Angels;

“We are thrilled to return to Los Angeles where the energy of the city will help power the creative spirit of the 28th annual VMAs. The city is the perfect backdrop for all the musical moments, mayhem and magic that make the VMAs such a notorious celebration.”

Selena Gomez is photographed wearing a gown by Julien Mac Donald, gold heels by Brian Atwood, Judith Leiber clutch with gold drop earrings and cuff by Lorraine Schwartz.

The televised event attracts a wide spectrum of viewers; those who anticipate the night’s vocal performances and others who salivate over the ensembles of the music realm’s brightest stars.

Adele, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, Chris Brown, Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, Pitbull and Cee-Lo Green each glided across the stage to perform the theme tunes to this summer. Whist, the mélange of routines, costumes and melodies utilised to honour the career of Britney Spears was particularly memorable.

Beyoncé chose the red carpet of the Video Music Awards as the moment to publicly announce that she and husband Jay-Z are expecting their first child.

Beyoncé is photographed wearing a burnt orange Lanvin gown from their Autumn 2011 collection with Lorraine Schwartz jewels to accessorise.

Beyoncé performed on stage in a sequined tuxedo jacket, white shirt and fitted pants all by Dolce & Gabbana.

Beyoncé’s former band mate, Kelly Rowland attended the awards in a feather and leather ensemble by Falguni & Shane Peacock with Christian Louboutin Lady Peep Spike heels to match.

Zoe Saldana continued the night’s Little Black Dress trend in a creation by Barbara Bui, the ensemble was accessorised with snake-skin heels also by Barbara Bui, a Lanvin clutch diamond earrings, diamond elephant ring, sapphire ring and gold / onyx bracelet all by Lorraine Schwartz.

Britney Spears was the night’s guest of honour and attended with boyfriend Jason Trawick. Spears was attired in a Moschino romper and low belt with Gina peep-toe calf  boots.

In her first public appearance since her marriage to Kris Humphries, Kim Kardashian chose an alluring sequined gown by Kaufmanfranco for the Video Music Awards.

Miley Cyrus exhibited a mixed print gown by Roberto Cavalli from the designers Pre-Fall 2011 Collection. The songstress paired the ensemble with a Lorraine Schwartz choker and Azzedine Alaia heels.

Demi Lovato attended the award show in a jewel encrusted dress with a plunging neckline by Mandalay.

Victoria Justice appeared on the red carpet in a jewel encrusted mini dress with Giuseppe Zanotti heels

Katie Holmes attending the music event in a halter dress by Azzedine Alaia and suede tan booties by Proenza Schouler.

Once again, Lady Gaga provided the audience with an unexpected form of attire. The New Yorker opened the show with a performance of her current single ‘You and I’ as her male alter-ego Jo Calderone.

Nicki Minaj is photographed wearing an Amato Couture corset, Shojotomo Japan shorts, Tsimori Chisato stockings, an Onch Movement ice cream necklace, Fifi and Romeo plastic cuffs and Duepunti rings. 

Katy Perry collected the most amount of ‘moon men’ last night with three awards in total including the prestigious ‘Video of the Year’. Perry attended the ceremony with her husband Russell Brand and exhibited four different ensembles at the event.

Perry graced the red carpet in an Atelier Versace Autumn 2011 mini dress with Jimmy Choo ‘Beak’ sandals and Lorraine Schwartz’s pink gold and diamond ‘Happy’ bracelet.

Katy Perry presented an award in the show wearing a purple lace Tom Ford gown, the songstress’ purple-hue hair was the perfect accompaniment. 

Finally, Katy Perry collected her award in a Christian Dior Autumn 2011 Couture ensemble paired with a yellow Philip Treacy had and multi-coloured wedges by Giuseppe Zanotti.

For the California Girl’s fourth ensemble, in the press room at the end of the show, Perry wore the ‘Breaking Records’ dress designed by Johnny Wujek for Furne One and Giuseppe Zanotti heels. 

Video of the Year: Firework - Katy Perry

Best Female Video: Born This Way - Lady Gaga

Best Male Video: U Smile - Justin Bieber

Best Hip-Hop Video: Superbass - Nicki Minaj

Best Pop Video: Til The World Ends - Britney Spears

Best Rock Video: Walk - Foo Fighters

Best Collaboration: E.T. - Katy Perry Ft. Kanye West

Best New Artist: Yonkers – Tyler, The Creator

Best Video With A Message: Born This Way - Lady Gaga

Best Art Direction: Rolling in the Deep - Adele

Best Choreography: Run This World (Girls)  - Beyoncé

Best Cinematography: Rolling in the Deep - Adele

Best Direction: Rolling in the Deep - Adele

Best Editing: Rolling in the Deep - Adele

Best Special Effects: E.T. - Katy Perry Ft. Kanye West

Christian Louboutin Loses to Yves Saint Laurent

“In 1992 I incorporated the red sole into the design of my shoes. This happened by accident as I felt that the shoes lacked energy so I applied red nail polish to the sole of a shoe. This was such a success that it became a permanent fixture.”

- Christian Louboutin

In April this year, Christian Louboutin filed a lawsuit against Yves Saint Laurent for alleged trademark infringement.

The designer claimed that in YSL’s 2011 Resort Collection (right), the French fashion house duplicated Louboutin’s most iconic design feature – the red sole. Louboutin sought for the shoe in question to be withheld from the market and one million dollars in damages.

The injunction stated that;

“Mr Louboutin is the first designer to develop the idea of having red soles on women’s shoes. The location of the bright colour on the outsole of a woman’s pump is said to provide an alluring “flash of red” when a woman walks down the street, or on the red carpet of a special event.”

This week, Judge Victor Marrero of Manhattan, ruled against Christian Louboutin’s plea for an injunction against the shoes inYSL’s 2011 Resort Collection. In his ruling, Judge Marrero recorded;

“Because in the fashion industry color serves ornamental and aesthetic functions vital to robust competition, the court finds that Louboutin is unlikely to be able to prove that its red outsole brand is entitled to trademark protection, even if it has gained enough public recognition in the market to have acquired secondary meaning.”

Christian Louboutin’s lawyer, Harley Lewin of McCarter & English LLP, released the following statement;

“We are profoundly disappointed in Judge Marrero’s decision. Although we are still studying it, it appears he has decided that in the fashion industry, one color should not serve as a trademark. While he acknowledges the fashion industry at large has recognized the Louboutin Red Sole as a trademark source indicator, he has concluded that the fashion industry needs to use colors on outsoles without restriction and this, despite a mountain of evidence to the contrary, including a recent decision by the 2nd Panel of Appeal at OAMI in the EU that concluded exactly the opposite, calling Mr. Louboutin’s adoption of the bright red outsole brilliant. We will evaluate all the alternatives available in the days to come.”

In comparison, David Bernstein of Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, YSL’s lawyer has stated;

“We’re gratified that Judge Marrero has agreed with YSL that no designer should be allowed to monopolize a single color for an article of apparel. As Judge Marrero indicated, YSL designers are artists and, like other artists, they should have the right to use the full palette of colors in designing their fashions for each season.

As YSL has noted from the start, this is a trademark registration that never should have issued, and we are pleased that Judge Marrero has agreed that the registration likely should be cancelled.”

Although Yves Saint Laurent are thrilled with Judge Marrero’s decision, it appears that Christian Louboutin’s team will explore different avenues until the result they seek is achieved.

The September Issues (Thus Far)

In fashion, the September issue of the realm’s magazines and journals, is the greatest edit in volume and the most prestigious cover of the year.

Complex Magazine:

Image: Complex

Image: Complex

Image: Complex

Beyoncé covers Complex Magazine’s annual ‘Style and Design’ issue.

The cover and editorial were photographed by Thierry Le Gouès. Ebon Heath created the cover’s artistic backdrop, which features the lyrics of Knowles’ hit ‘Run This World (Girls).

The American songstress exhibits edgy designs by Brian Lichtenberg, with styling by Matthew Henson and Peju Faujumore.

Elle UK:

Image: Elle Magazine

Kirsten Dunst features in Elle UK’s September Issue. The cover and editorial are romantic in style with soft colour palettes highlighting Dunst’s fair beauty.

The actress collaborated with photographer David Slijper to create an image of effortless elegance. The subscriber’s edition of the issue is equally alluring.

Image: Elle UK

Rachel Bilson displayed her envious physique and luxurious locks on the September cover of InStyle Makeover. The feature was styled by Brad Goreski and exhibits a daring belted gown by Proenza Schouler.

Instyle Makeover:

Image: Proenza Schouler

Proenza Schouler, today shared the news that Andrew Rosen of Theory has secured a forty-five percent stake in their company. Rosen has successfully managed and raised the profile of brands such as Alice+Olivia, Gryphon and Rag & Bone.

The designer-duo are the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) 2011 and 2007 Womenswear Designers of the Year.

Vogue UK:

Image: Vogue UK

 Freja Beha Erichson is photographed wearing a sequins Dolce & Gabbana gown with accessories also by the Italian label and a beret by AdHoc.

Image: Vogue UK

Freja Beha Erichson is pictured wearing a tiered organza dress by Alexander McQueen, crystal choker by Lanvin and lace cuffs by House of Snowball. 

Image: Vogue UK

Freja Beha Erichson is shot wearing an embroidered silk shirt and skirt by Givenchy by Ricardo Tisci, tights by Pamela Mann and leather/crystal choker by Lanvin. 

Freja Beha Erichson stars as the protagonist in Vogue UK’s September episode. Famed photographer, Mario Testino shot the editorial and cover. Throughout the issue, Erichson exhibits delicate and romantic pieces by Givenchy, Lanvin and Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

Flare Magazine:

Image: Flare

Flare Magazine have titled their September Issue shoot with Jessica Stam ’Naughty or Nice’. Max Abadian was the editorial’s photographer with Elizabeth Cabral styling and Harry Josh tending to Miss Stam’s tresses.

Throughout the issue, the Canadian model is featured in luxury pieces by The Row, Louis Vuitton, Emilio Pucci and Giles.

Jessica Stam covers the magazine in tough statement jewelry by Swarovski, an embellished Vionnet dress and elegant heels by Christian Louboutin.

Vogue Australia:

Image: Vogue Australia

Image: Vogue Australia

Image: Vogue Australia

Katie Fogarty covers Vogue Australia’s September Issue. Kai Z. Feng photographed the ‘Night Watch’ editorial,Naomi Smith is the issue’s fashion editor / stylist with Robert Di Cuia responsible for hair styling and make-up artistry by Benjamin Puckey.

Image: Vogue Australia

Hayden Williams:

Whilst trawling through the internet for fashionable inspiration, an alluring sketch caught my eye.

Hayden Williams, a London fashion design and illustration artist has frequented my news feed with his bright, enchanting sketches. On Williams’ blog, fitting tributes of pop culture icons such as Rihanna and Amy Winehouse are also rather prominent.

One of Hayden’s most recent sketches is particularly special – ‘The September Issue’. The model exhibits an Anna Wintour-esque hair style with designs featuring this season’s trends of checkerboard pattern and tuxedo-inspired tailoring.

Without doubt, Hayden Williams is a promising talent for fashion’s future, it would not be surprising if he soon featured in a Fashion Week near you.

Image: Hayden Williams

This post will be continually updated to include the September Issues which are yet to be released. Check back often!

Harry Potter’s Haute Muse

The ‘Harry Potter’ series of films, have catapulted the young protagonists into fame and fortune, whilst also offering them opportunities for stage, fashion and cinema.

Within the domain of fashion, Emma Watson has earned herself quite a prestigious reputation. Thus far, she has fronted a number of campaigns for Burberry, collaborated with The Tree People and is Vogue’s July Cover Girl.

With the release of Haute Muse‘s July editorial, it seems that Miss Watson has some strong modelling competition from her co-star, Bonnie Wright.

Wright, known to fans of the saga as Ginny Weasley, appears almost gothic / vampy in style on the glossy cover. The images were taken by Jonas Bresnan and the editorial was styled by Victoria Adcock.

This striking image will, without doubt, provide Bonnie with numerous opportunities to work within fashion and modelling.

The British starlet, at only twenty years of age, has also managed to find love in Hollywood. In April, her engagement to ‘Twilight’ star, Jamie Campbell-Bower was officially confirmed. For her wedding gown, Bonnie Wright will have numerous designers appeasing to her every whim.

This issue of Haute Muse hits stands in the United Kingdom / Ireland on August 10th and in the United States on August 18th. In preparation for the magazine’s release, further images from Wright’s editorial have been released.

Image: Haute Muse

Image: Haute Muse

Bonnie Wright is photographed wearing a dress by Julian McDonald and earrings by Adler

Image: Haute Muse

 Bonnie Wright is photographed wearing a dress by Alexis Mabille, shrug by Maxime Simoens, earrings by Adler and cuff by Cartier.

Image: Haute Muse

 Bonnie Wright is photographed wearing a jumpsuit by Jenny Packham, shoes by Christian Louboutin, necklace and ring by Cartier and long necklace, brooch and ring by Adler.