Lady Gaga: I am my hair.

Lady Gaga: I am my hair

The outrageous, dare to be different Queen of Pop has always made headlines with her one off outfits (who could forget the infamous meat dress?), but has always been noticed and praised for her various hairstyles, and even went as far as dedicating a song to her very own!

Since she hit our screens in 2008 with her first brand new album "The Fame", she has rarely been out of the papers, causing excitement, music and a little controversy along the way aswell. From a classic blonde bob to a short Marilyn Monroe cut, to green, brown, pink, and white hair, she has certainly tried almost every colour going, and has even gone that little bit further by creating jaw dropping styles to match!

A personal favorite of mine has to be the blonde bow (pictured left), that she carried off so well! Not only did it look so different, it gave young women and fans worldwide a few good ideas to try out themselves!

You can insult, offend, and dislike this lady, but you cannot deny that she is true to herself, a rare find in this ever changing world!
Her looks may be outrageous and sometimes a little controversy, but she is always there, ready to take what is thrown at her, and merely smiles back!
I think that is why she has so many admirers and followers worldwide. She is not afraid to try out different styles, and has certainly become a Fashion guru for those who wish to follow in her dare to be different style!







As the Lady herself said in a recent London concert (pictured left) "Its not so hard changing the world, its as easy as changing your hair!" 

Louise Gray For Topshop

Louise Gray For Topshop

Louise Gray is the first designer to collaborate with Topshop to create a new, colourful and dazzling make up range, along with outrageously eye catching clothes!

Born and bred in Frasreburgh Scotland, Louise prides herself on her unique style. 

“Colour, textures, hand silk screened, specially developed fabrics in woven, embroidered and printed techniques."  said Louise,on her signature trend.

Her collections were a hit at London Fashion week, that Topshop were eager to snap her up fast! The collection is one not miss this Winter, as it won't last long, and you are sure to look the part day or night. 

The red, pink, orange and blue colours will certainly make you stand out from the crowd this Season. These brights colours are on trend and Miss Gray's make up is the a great touch to liven up your party outfit.

Louise has previously spoken about her admiration for women with an Indie style to them, and admires icons such as Madonna and Gwen Stefani! Taking a look at her collection, we can see how they would suit the style that Ms Gray is presenting. 


Her loud and bold clothing wear stands out in the high street store, and is sure to lift your moods on the dark Winter nights. The smiles and bright colours are sure to be a hit, and if Louise's style isnt usually your cup of tea, go and see for yourself, you may suprise yourself, as she herself says her style often changes, yours might too!

I Put a Spell on You.....

Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble!

The nights are darker, the weather is colder and there is a certain chill in the air that can only mean one thing! Halloween has arrived! 
Autumn is officially behind us and the Winter months have crept up on us once again, as we near the month of November. The scariest holiday is here again, and everyone is in the Halloween spirit! 
Witches, Ghouls, Ghosts, and Vampires are sure be terrorising our streets this Wednesday night, and only the brave will attempt to scare them away!
Each year, Halloween becomes more of a celebration for younger children, a night where dressing up, knocking on strangers doors and eating as much candy as they can, is allowed!
And of course, scary, creepy, classic Halloween films, make it all the more exciting! 
For all you 90's kids out there, I'm sure you remember that one film, that told the legend of the Sanderson sisters who would hunt and eat young children, after being summoned by a candle at Halloween! 
Hocus Pocus! 

Hocus Pocus hit our screens in 1993, and sent shivers down our spines as the infamous Witches sang their song, spellbinding children and adults alike!
"Come little children, I'll take thee away... Into a land of enchantment..." Sang a fresh faced, young SJP, (before her SATC days)

After being dead 300 years, the Sanderson sisters are brought back to Salem, Massachusetts, after a young, and non believer lights the candle, that summons the sisters to hunt for children once more, and our story begins! Its is up to young Max, his love interest and younger sister to save the day, as the whole town is caught under their spell! 

So, whether you're out trick or treatin' or staying in to avoid what's creeping int he dark, keep a eye out for three broomsticks flying in the moonlight, and whatever you do this week, don't go lighting any old candles.... 
Happy Halloween! 





Take a look: Hocus Pocus 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Importance of the first step

October 2012 has been this year's Breast Cancer Awareness month, reaching out to thousands of women in the UK and worldwide to help notice the signs and supporting them on their way to recovery. 

Last year, almost 2 million women took information from the awareness month, and 13,000 calls were made by those in need of help. 

The fact that this cancer has an awareness month stresses the importance of checking your breasts for any lumps or bumps, and contacting your local GP if you are unsure of anything you may have noticed. 

Thousands of women are diagnosed with cancer every day, and with enough support and awareness, we could soon be one step ahead by helping ourselves and others every step of the way. 

As women, we often bond together over our likes and dislikes and we pride ourselves on supporting each other through difficult times.

Female Celebrities in the public eye are often women we look up to, and when they are facing situations such as these, we realize that Breast Cancer can affect anyone, and we support each other yet again, regardless of who we are or what we do. 

In 2005, Pop Princess Kylie Minogue, then 36, was diagnosed with breast cancer, days before starting a sellout tour of her homeland Australia. 

Kylie has publicly spoken of her ordeal, from the shock, to the treatment and recovery. 

 “One important thing to know is you’re still the same person during it. You’re stripped down near zero. But it seems that most people come out at the other end feeling more like themselves than ever before. I’m more eager than ever to do what I did. I want to do everything.” - Kylie Minogue.

Kylie has since supported Breast Cancer awareness and urges women everywhere to know the importance of checking your breasts, of knowing what signs to recognize, in order to catch it as soon as you can.  

This uplifting organisation has so many inspiring events, that women from all over can compete in. From a Women only run, to PINK Fridays, a "Ride London" bicycle events, Triathlons and treks, there is something for everyone! Thousands and millions of pounds are raised each year for women who are diagnosed with breast cancer, and every single penny counts. 

Look at the website, read some information, it won't take you long, and it could be a big help!

Take a look at : http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/

Pride and Prejudice

Genre: Novel

Pride and Prejudice-it's a classic.

Pride and Prejudice is one of those stories that you can read over and over again, but if you haven’t yet picked it up, make sure you do this winter. A classic read full of humour, wit, courage and of course love, showing us how our own prejudices can blind us to what is in front of us, or in this case, who is in front of us.

It’s a simple yet powerful love story between the stubborn Miss Bennet and the handsome Mr Darcy, and how their hatred for each other turned to affection once they realise just how alike they really are.

The proud Mr Darcy character has been modernised for 21^stcentury films and remakes of the film, making us fall in love with him over and over again, and our heroine, Elizabeth Bennet is a character we admire, and can certainly relate to, as she faces the challenges thrust upon her.

In an era where love and marriage are of the utmost importance, Jane Austen certainly makes light of the situation, allowing us to sympathise and admire our heroine just that little bit more.

And as the saying goes, it is an “oldie” but it sure is a “goodie” too. The cold winter nights will soon be upon us, so put the kettle on and curl up with a warm cup of tea as you lose yourself in this classic!

Recommend?

Yes.

Who is it for?

The hopeless romantic, the optimist, the pessimist, the stubborn ones and the ones who love a classic

Rating? 8/10

London Fashion Week: Disney style

London Fashion Week: Disney Style


Designers, Fashionistas and admirers from all over Britain will flock to the country's capital next week, as London Fashion week comes to town!

Katie Hillier and Lulu Guinness are among some of the Fashion designers that are collaborating with Disney, to create one off unique and exciting pieces of the cutest little girly character- Minnie Mouse!

Disney characters are seen everywhere, from children's clothing to adult fancy dress costumes, we still can't seem to get enough it, so why not create a Fashion collection to the infamous Disney?

Vice President of Fashion and Home for the Walt Disney Company EMEA, Marc Low, spoke of his and the company’s delight that this collection will help the famous Minnie Mouse continue to “inspire fans across the world”.

"We're thrilled to collaborate with such visionaries to create these one-off designs.” Said Mr Low. “Surpassing trends, Minnie Mouse's iconic silhouette, signature bows and polka dots always remain in style which is why she is as relevant today as the day she first appeared on the fashion scene.”

Minnie's own stylish collection will be on display at Somerset House in London, where the designers will proudly show their work, before the collection is auctioned on popular trading site, Ebay, to raise funds for the Fashion Arts Foundation.


Kicking off next week, LFW is sure to delight fans and inspire millions as it does each year, and we can't wait to see what they've got for us!

London- show us what you got!









Have a look at:   LFW website

The Baby Laundry for Unmarried mothers

The Baby Laundry for unmarried mothers

By Angela Brown

Novel based on a true story

Based on a true story, Angela Brown takes the reader through an emotional and heartbreaking story that will have you in tears from the first page!

We are taken back to the 1960’s were miniskirts are all the range, a young band from Liverpool are winning the hearts of the Nation, and a young woman, not twenty years old has found herself pregnant and unmarried.

Angela Brown was 19 when she fell pregnant, having only recently split up from her boyfriend, and raised in a Catholic home, she was sent away to give her child up for adoption.  

She endured an exhausting and hard regime in a convent run by Catholic nuns, who looked down on her and the other pregnant girls for the shame they had brought upon themselves and their families.

Angela gave birth to a healthy baby boy, but had to give him away after only 8 weeks of taking care of him, night and day. 

It is shocking to read how these new and soon to be mothers were treated in the convent. The adoption issues back in the 60's are treated with secrecy, as if it is shaming for someone to do. 

The reader is taken on the journey with Angela, as we see her try to move on with her life, up until she receives a letter from her son thirty years later.

This honest and sad story will tug at your heart strings in more ways than you think.

The best bit was:

When Angela finally saw her son again, after so many years had passed.  True stories like these, really show the strength and love a mother has for her children.

Recommend?

I think females will prefer this book, saying that, the story can relate to anyone who has had pregnancy or adoption issues in the past.

The mail online posted an article on Angela's experiences and included pictures : link

Henry Holland & Supergra... Collaboration for the Nation!

Henry Holland & Supergra... Collaboration for the Nation! 

Henry Holland and Supergra have teamed up to create a collaboration of unique footwear for the people of Britain! The launch party kicked in early June, with a tropical theme, that even Mr Henry Holland was sporting himself!

Designer Henry Holland has teamed with Italian brand footwear Supergra to create a footwear that is sure to impress! The launch party took place at the footwear's own offices in Camden, London, and soon saw queues of people lining up to get a first look! Henry's celebrity friends Alexa Chung, Nicola Roberts and radio 1 presenter Nick Grimshaw were among the few to celebrate with him, and certainly drew in the crowds.

The team even cooked Mr Holland his very own Supergra themed cake, in the style of a giant lilac platform shoe! The perfect way to celebrate his new collection, and a real homage to the British designer himself!

So if you're around London anytime soon, go take a look! There's so many in store, you are sure to find a favorite, but hurry- they're selling fast!

Olympic fever!

2012 Olympic Games

I never thought I would be into the Olympics this year! Never in a million years!
I’m not a sporty girl, and watching sport has always been a bit boring to me. Don’t get me wrong I like watching Wimbledon, and when I went there a few years back it was a brilliant day!
I remember when I first heard of the cost of the London 2012 games, I was gobsmacked! The park looks fantastic on TV, and I wouldn’t pass up going to see it myself, but I do think what they have spent is ridiculous given the current state of the economy! I was against the idea from the beginning and unlike what seem the rest of the country; I was not counting down the days!

I watched the Opening ceremony and was surprised at how much I liked it. Danny Boyle is a great director so it was always gonna be good, and I really liked how he, in a way, summed up British history and its people from the countryside to the city slickers and the NHS to Harry Potter. I liked how so many people from all over the UK were involved and the choir of children from different towns was a lovely touch. A lot of practice and preparation had gone into, and I think it showed Britain in a positive light.

The Queen parachuting in with Bond was unexpected and Mr Bean's appearance was equally as good, I mean, who doesn’t like Mr Bean? Or Bond for that matter...

I found myself watching a lot of the swimming events, and enjoying them too. The US team are impressive, and I have to say the British team are just as good. Team GB has shocked me, and I think they have really done themselves and the country proud. It’s obvious how hard they are all worked, and how much the Olympics mean to them and it’s nice to seem in their element.

The Gymnastics was great to watch, the athlete’s strength and ability were really outstanding and it was great to see them win the Bronze, despite them hoping for that silver.
Team GB are doing great, and it’s so nice to see friendly competition and how everyone seems to be behind the athletes.

Lets hope the Team continues to thrive, and I do think whatever the outcome, however many medals we get, we should be proud to have such a brilliant team representing our Nation. GO TEAM GB!
 

NEW FILM: Trouble with the Curve

NEW FILM TRAILER: Trouble with the curve

Hollywood legend Clint Eastwood has returned with his new Sport themed film “Trouble with the curve”. Eastwood has hidden away from the cameras since “Gran Torino” hit our screens in 2008, but is back with a bang in this heart warming, real American film.

The film follows Baseball scout Gus Lobel (Eastwood) battling with old age and the broken relationship with his only daughter Mickey (Amy Adams). Gus takes his daughter along with him for one final recruiting trip, and gets more than he bargained for as uncomfortable home truths and secrets are exposed, as he must choose between his love for Mickey or the game.

Supporting cast includes famous faces such as actor John Goodman, and singer Justin Timberlake, playing a love interest for Mickey.  

This film is the first in almost 20 years that Eastwood has not directed and acted in, as his long time friend and producing partner Robert Lorenz has taken the lead role as Director this time.

“Trouble with the curve” will hit the US Box offices on September 21^st, a week ahead of the Major league baseball playoffs. The film will find its way to the UK on November 30^th, and rumours are already circulating that Eastwood could be in line to receive yet another Oscar nomination for his performance. 

Link to the trailer = http://bit.ly/QDhA90

"The Help"

I recently read "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett (I'm a little behind,i know) but i wanted to read the book before seeing the film, despite having heard good things about both. 

This book shocked me, as it was scary knowing what I was reading was based on true events, and it really compelled me to read on, it took me no time at all to finish it. 

Even if you think you might not like it, give it a try! It might surprise you! But definitely read the book before watching the film, I think these days we lose the ability to do this, as so many books are turned into films these days. 

This is my review. 

Book review

“The Help” by Kathryn Stockett

Genre: Novel

The story follows the lives of two old black maids, Aibileen and Minny, and young Skeeter Phelan, a white woman who is determined to expose the way black women are treated in the little town of Jackson, Mississippi 1962.

 Skeeter Phelan is one of many white women in Jackson, who were raised by black maids and ignored by their mothers, and yet these black women known as “The Help” are treated as the lowest of the low. Skeeter’s own curiosity grows as the black woman, who raised her since birth, is nowhere to be her seen in town, and her mother refuses to answer her questions.

The novel is told through Aibileen, Minny and Skeeter’s eyes, giving the reader an insight into each one of these women’s lives, exposing their own challenges and secrets.  

This heartbreaking tale will have you laughing one minute and crying the next, as it is hard not to take these characters to heart.  Based on true events, this story is one that will shock, sadden and leave you wanting more.

Recommend?

Yes.

Who is it for?

This book will suit anyone who wants to read about finding Culture, love and friendship in the most unexpected of places.

Rating?  10/10

Fashion Olympics at Topshop

Fashion for this year's London 2012 Olympic games had landed at leading retail store Topshop! 

The High st store has collaborated with British designer Ashish to create affordable, fashionable and stylish clothes for those of us who are more likely to watch the games than take part, for this year anyway!

Fashion designer Ashish Gupta is renowned for his unique take to Fashion and insists on celebrating the Olympic a little differently by supporting those who don't get medals,or to put it in his words the "losers". 

“I was rubbish at sports in school, and I was always the last one chosen for the football team! So I can relate to being the 'loser'! I want to celebrate the underdog, the runner up, the ones that don’t get the medals!” - Ashish Gupta. 

His latest collaboration with Topshop  marks his eighth with the store, and means that those of us who are more Fashion orientated than Sport,can also take part in this year's main event! His 9 piece collection includes a Grey over-sized sweater with the classic "I <3 Sports" slogan, a grey vest top labelled "2nd place" and of course another grey t shirt with the word "LOSER" printed in bold! Truly highlighting the underdogs of this year's Olympics and showing the world that it really is the taking part that counts! You don't need to win a medal to feel like a hero this summer. 

Below: The "I <3 sports" sweatshirt and the International print sweater with matching tracksuit bottoms!

Check out the "Ashish" website for yourself: http://www.ashish.co.uk/content.html

Or go straight to Topshop.com to view the styles! 

Sale dresses under £20

You don't need to spend a small fortune to look fabulous when the sales are on!

It would appear that the British weather cannot make its mind up this year, one day we are strolling out in shorts and the next day we are reaching for our brollies.  Its unpredictability is leaving us unsure as what to wear. But ladies, do not fret, it's just a perfect excuse to go shopping!
Here are some of our favourite pieces we've found in the sale so far:
This paisley embellished short dress is perfect for casual wear during the warmer days or in the evening matched with a pair of heeled wedges.

Paisley dress £20  Oasis

Boohoo.com is always a popular choice and they've got some great sale bargains. This bodycon dress will be sure to turn heads with its bright colour pattern and flattering style, this one is sure to be snapped up soon, so be quick.

Kaleidoscope bodycon dress £15 Boohoo
Shift dresses are always in fashion, whatever the weather and this piece is a perfect example as to why we can't seem to get enough of them. The print is simple, yet stands out and the colours blend well together. A beautiful summer dress for the Boho girl in you.

Ivy Printed sleeveless Shift dress £20 Boohoo 
This Balrareic style hippy vest is great to wear to any festivals you are going to this summer. The light colours and pattern would look great teamed with a pair of jeans or denim hot pants.

Balaeric Hippy vest £17 Warehouse 

This bright paisley top is light and easy to wear and the bold colours will make sure stand out in a crowd. 

Paisley dial top £20 Warehouse 

Dip dye shorts are everywhere on the British high street and are bang on trend this season. These shorts would look great with a strapless summer top and teamed with a pair of wedges, anyone can have long legs!

Dip Dye shorts £20 Warehouse
Maxi skirts are perfect for tall girls, match with a plain tank top and wear with confidence.



Dark grey maxi skirt £15 River Island
You will most certainly turn heads in this stunning animal print dress. The bold colours steal focus and would look great with a glowing tan (thats if we get any sun of course).


Animal Print dress £15 River Island
These cute loose pink trousers are perfect for any occasion; relaxing in the park, strolling on the beach or just hanging around the house. You would certainly be one of a kind this season.



Pink palazzo trousers £15 River Island 
This fabulous ruffle dress is now on sale at Zoom Boutique and is a steal at just a tenner.

Rare ruffle strap dress £10 Zoom Boutique
There's only one thing left for us to say - happy shopping!

Style must have: Jewellery under £10

Now ladies, we all know that accessories can make or break an outift, so it is vital we get it right.

Fortunately for us, the British high street is often one step ahead and always stocked full of beautiful, unique and affordable pieces for us to purchase.
Leading clothing brand Topshop has a great selection of jewellery on offer and we totally recommend you take a look and pick up some cool pieces.
We love this Scandi Oval stone ring,it is perfect for completing the gothic look or simply adding a touch of boldness to your outift.

Scandi Oval Stone Ring £6.50 Topshop
When it comes to unique pieces of jewellery, this ring certainly stands out from the rest and we are certain its unique style is sure to catch on. This piece is so different from what we would expect from Topshop, but thats why Topshop is great, they always surprise us!

Articulated ring £8.50 Topshop

This pearl triangle ring sums up why Topshop can boast about its unique selection. Its design is simple, yet it stands out from typical styles.

Pearl Triangle ring £6.50 Topshop

High street brand ZARA is a great, yet understated when it comes to fashionable jewellery. Their Rigid necklace decorated with pearls and diamantes would look stunning around your neck this summer and even better with a glowing tan.
 
Rigid Necklace with pearls and Diamante £9.99 Zara 

This chained necklace with neon coloured stones looks great with a simple light summer outfit. The neon colours and chains steal focus, so you won't have to worry about choosing a colourful dress to go with this piece.

Necklace with chains and neon coloured stones £9.99 Zara 
Oasis is yet another leading fashion store that sells beautiful pieces of fashion jewellery, not as unique as others but just as fantastic.  Check out this pair of Facet drop earrings. Long drop earrings are great for lengthening your face and this pair would suit any hairstyle or casual outift to a tee.


Facet drop earrings £4.00 Oasis 
These cute fluffy feather earrings would like great with a stunning dress on a night out. They are light enough and small enough not to steal focus but would great with any party dress.

Fullfy feather earrings £5.00 Oasis 
This bright silver pendant necklaces oozes sophistication, and adds the finishing touch to a simple yet stylish outfit.


Pendant discs necklace £4.00 Oasis
Like many other retail stores, New Look often keeps ahead of the fashion and has the latest trends already waiting in stock before we know it. These multi-coloured beads would brighten up any outift and would be perfect to wear at the beach or poolside. Its bright colours are sure to cheer you up whatever the weather.

Multicoloured tiny beaded bracelet £3 New Look 
This gorgeous Neva Ombre necklace was made by Fashion brand "Pieces" that design the most unusual yet eye catching necklaces for the High street. Long beads suit both a beach or a casual evening outfit.




Pieces: Neva Ombre Necklace £7.99 New Look 

Hollywood power couple Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith have raised millions for the charity Water Project

Actor Will Smith and wife Jada Pinkett Smith received homemade gifts from local villagers in Ethiopia, after the couple raised over US $100,000 for the charity Water Project.  

Water Project is a non-profit organisation that helps bring clean water to developing nations worldwide.  The power couple decided to raise money for the people of Ethiopia, stating that they wanted to help people in third world countries to “quench their thirst”. 

The couple began their campaign in September 2011 by asking for donations to the charity as birthday gifts instead of receiving anything themselves. Many contributors followed their lead and urged thousands to support them in helping third world countries and an additional US $679,000 was raised. 

During their recent trip to Ethiopia the pair witnessed and helped open a well by activating a drill that filled the village with clean water, enough to feed the inhabitants of the small Maego Village in Tigray. They were welcomed with open arms and celebrated by dancing and receiving hand crafted gifts made with love by the local people. 

Jada Pinkett Smith described the trip as an “eye opening and authentic experience” and vowed to continue raising money for other countries alike. Together, they have set up their own website encouraging others to join their campaign and feed the world together (www.charitywater.org).

TOWIE Star Gemma Collins launches own plus size Fashion range

TV Star Gemma Collins is known for her bold yet fashionable outfits on reality show The Only Way is Essex, and tomorrow her very own plus size clothing range will be in sold in stores all over Britain promoting her own style for thousands to purchase for themselves.

Ms Collins, 30, proudly posted a picture of her new label on social networking site Twitter, along with her own signature, posting “Check out my label for my hot new dresses” (pictured right).

  Her clothing rage is yet to hit the stores yet, but has already thought to gain £1m in turnover, showing just how in demand her clothing range will be with shoppers of the British high st.

Her clothing range will vary from size 16-22 including maxi dresses, waterfall cardigans and wrap dresses, to name but a few items she is famous for wearing herself.  Celebrity magazine Closer revealed a sneak peak of her clothing range starting from a reasonable £30, including tips on how to dress for a curvier figure and her own personal favourite styles.

This is not the first time a TOWIE star has looked beyond the cameras and taken it upon them to launch a clothing range. Model Amy Childs recently launched her own summer swimwear, which is already thriving amongst young girls and women. Let’s hope Gemma’s own range will be a big hit with curvier women who also want to look good this summer. 

What's on the box: The Newsroom

HBO’s latest drama to hit our tv screens is the anticipated American show “The Newsroom”. The drama focuses on the characters lives behind the scenes and in front of the camera, as they struggle to keep both running smoothly.  Produced by Oscar Winning writer Aaron Sorkin( famous for creating hit drama “The West Wing”), he was determined to create a series surrounding a “hyper competent group of people” working in Journalism. 

Boasting a cast of well known actors such as Jeff Daniels  playing lead Anchor “Will McAvoy”, Emily Mortimer playing Executive producer “Mackenzie McHale” and BAFTA nominee Dev Patel playing the newsroom’s researcher “Neal Sampat”. 

Tonight’s opening episode shows the main character, anchor McAvoy(Daniels) returning to the newsroom after suffering a meltdown, only to find out most of the staff and old friends are leaving. Cue the beginning of a bumpy, unexpected and complicated journey for our protagonist throughout the show’s first season.

  

The drama oozes reality by focusing on news stories that have made already made headlines, keeping its audience believing in the Newsroom, and the challenges facing a Newsroom team from day to day.  

Sky Atlantic channel is home to this exciting new drama about to hit our homes, giving a whole new meaning to a Newsroom. 

Celebrity “Body surfer” pictures sweeps Social Network

Social networking site Twitter, has been hit by a “body surfing” craze , as female celebrities are uploading full length pictures of themselves for thousands of their followers to admire.   

Recently divorced Model Heidi Klum (pictured right) is the latest celebrity to join the craze, uploading a full length picture of herself entitled “Gorgeous day”, relaxing on a beach while enjoying America’s fourth of July celebrations.  The star shows off her tanned and toned body in a skimpy animal print bikini, showing at the age of 39, she is still proud of her figure.

Ms Klum joined the likes of Singer Rihanna and America Playboy Model Coco Austin. What all these women have in common, apart from their celebrity statuses and millions in the bank, are the body confidence to show off their torsos to the world, as beach Season is creeping up on us all.

Celebrities as young as 20 year old Miley Cyrus ,began the craze by posting pictures of her legs with a warm fire to be seen in the background. These “leggy” pictures gathered enough interest and reaction to others and eventually developing into full length body shots by fellow female stars.

These pictures have caused controversy amongst Twitter “followers” and fans worldwide. Many have branded this craze “ridiculous”, and it is merely a “need for nonstop validation”. Loyal Fans of these “body surfers” have replied by showing and encouraging their support to their idols.

This trend is rapidly becoming a serious twitter craze amongst celebrities as more and more famous women are posting these “revealing” pictures on a daily basis. Only in the world of Celebrity would these pictures be deemed a “craze” and a way to gain praise from fans, as many similar pictures are posted everyday by non celebrities, and girls as young as teenagers posting pictures of themselves, which are, of course deemed inappropriate and a cry for attention.

This “body surfing craze” certainly raises questions as to what message these women are sending to younger, loyal fans who also think it a good idea to “jump on the bandwagon”, become like one of them and wait for the appraisal to hit them. 

A cry for help?

Celebrity Actress and socialite Lindsay Lohan has sparked media interest again, not for her drunk driving or drug abuse - but a photo shoot displaying shocking pictures of the young lady posing with a gun to her head and "seductively" into her mouth. Another reason for so many to wonder where she is going with this, and what kind of image she is creating for herself.
These controversial pictures were taken by Photographer Terry Richardson in LA, and many of the pictures have already been taken off his website due to a number of complaints. Ms Lohan has made headlines worldwide for her shocking behavior and I'm sure we have all forgotten how many times she has been sent to prison. You would think that she would want to improve her public image and give the impression that she is trying to turn a new page, and put a positive spin on news articles,but sadly, it inst this time.
Maybe she agreed to take them to cause this uproar and controversy, and if so, she is definitely winning!
But what kind of look does this give her, why would she agree to do a photo shoot so striking and defining for all the wrong reasons?

One black and white picture ( below)  is titled "Lindsay Lohan - Suicide" and shows her pointing a gun to her head and looking rather a little worse for wear. Many other images include her dressed in skimpy lingerie (revealing a little too much) and holding a cigarette, while posing on a bed for the camera.

It does make you question what kind of reaction she thought these pictures would generate, and of course, why did she agree to them in the first place? With so many young celebrities risking their health and taking their lives today, I hope Lindsay will not become another statistic in a long harrowing list. Lets hope these pictures are merely a cry for attention rather than a cry for help.

Graduate Fashion Week: The Highlights

GFW 2012: Part 2



This year's Graduate Fashion Week kicked off in style,truly showcasing the talent of young graduates in 2012.
Fashion students from all over had been working hard all year to show off
their own unique collections to the public, and they did not disappoint!
From the Gothich to the Brightly coloured, so many Fashion styles and
prints were on show!
A "fringing and faces" collection (pictured right) by Claire Acton from the University of Central Lancashire, really stood out and wowed admirers on the Catwalk! The outifts were bold and certainly made an impression on spectators.







The bright and colourful "Blumarine collection" (pictured left) was certainly eye catching this year.
GFW is known for its prestigious awards and this year many worthy students received praise for their collections.

The Zandra Rhodes Textiles crown was awarded to Fiona Xiaoping Huang from the University of Central Lancashire for her creative take on her own collection,  and the Ethical award of 2012 went to to Northumbria University student Sarah Murphy.

Congratulations to Chloe Jones Fashion Graduate from Bath Spa University on winnig the GFW Gold Award 2012 for her stunning Gothic collection! Chloe's collection titled "Our Father who art in Heaven",included slouched hooded tops with full length plain skirts and big prints that stood out.
A fantastic ending to a spectacular week, and I am sure we will see many of the graduates succeed in the industry with such great collections!

Graduate Fashion Week 2012

GFW 2012: Part 1

Fashion students from the UK and overseas have been waiting for this week all year, and now the time has finally arrived to display their work at the biggest graduate fashion event in the world!
Graduate Fashion week (GFW) is a non profit organisation, created to showcase up and coming new talent in the Fashion Industry. Stylists, designers and experts will gather under one roof to marvel at what BA degree students have achieved in the past year!

Hundreds of exhibitions and Catwalks will be set up at Earls Court 2 Exhibition Centre in London, and will open Sunday June 10th until Wednesday June 13th for admirers and fashionistas alike to enjoy!

From Bath Spa to Amsterdam Fashion Institue, hundreds of University students eager to show off their talent willbe working hard this week to put the finishes touches on their masterpieces before unvailing their work to big crowds! Each student is given a personal proffesional Mentor to guide them through the week and help them create the best work they can!

Experts and empolyers will be appearing at GFW to take note of any particular pieces that catch their eye! Fashion students have s great ability to create and style work from individual and personal taste, and they should be applauded for such work.



"I do believe that British students are flourishing because you have the best education system in
England that gives Art & Design students the freedom to think, to dream and to do."
-Alber Elbaz, Fashion designer.

 

Tickets for seats at the catwalk and exhibtions are priced at £8 to £15 and can be bought here:
http://www.gfw.org.uk/tickets/catwalk/

Glamour Awards 2012 : The best dressed

Glamour Awards 2012

Last week saw this years Glamour Awards hit London by storm, as so many beautiful and admired women from all over were acknowledged for their talents and achievements of the past Showbiz year.
Female Singers, Actresses, Presenters and Designers graced the red carpet at Mayfair,London looking stunning as usual and ready to enjoy their night. The Glamour Awards take place every year to celebrate "Women of the year" in categories such as Icon, Solo Artist and Entrepreneur.
Famous American Actresses Eva Longoria and Lea Michele flew in to the capital for the evening, dazzling us with their designer dresses and were more than happy to talk about their work.

Actress and Activist Eva Longoria,looked stunning in a simple Orange zipped dress by designer and close friend Victoria Beckham. Orange is always such a striking colour, and it suited Eva to a tee, and didn't pull focus from the woman herself. Eva also picked up the Glamour Inspiration award!




Actress Lea Michele (pictured right)  picked up the US TV Actress Glamour Award for playing feisty Rachel Berry in the American series "Glee". Ms Michele looked sensational in a long dark blue off the shoulder dress, designed by Zac Posen. Matching earring and silver shoes looked great with this outfit and she really stood out!




British Singer Jessie J and American actress Jessica Alba decided to dress in stunning black dresses to the awards.



Both dresses flattered the women's slim figures, and while Jessica went for a classic long styled dress, Jessie decided on a 1920's flapper girl dress and matched well with little black ankle boots!

The night was a for all, celebrating why we admire such strong women who won awards that are inspirational to strive for in life, such as Entrepreneur (that went to Jessica Alba), Outstanding Contribution (Pop sensation Kylie Minogue won) and Actress Viola Davis winning Film Actress for her role in "The Help".

These women were commended for their good work throughout the year, and spoke highly of how they appreciated being at an Awards ceremony where strong women were awarded for being just that. Congratulations to all the winners this year,and let's hope that inspiration will build in others for next year's ceremony!